With its mountainous backdrop and cobalt-blue water, Lake Tahoe is a striking sight. It’s situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which makes it a magnet for winter-sports enthusiasts. When the snow melts, the crowds keep coming for summer activities. Choose between skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and much more. Holiday makers will also enjoy fishing, fine dining, spa time or visiting a casino.
Lake Tahoe has 72 miles (116 kilometres) of shoreline. It straddles the border of California (west) and Nevada (east) and is the second deepest lake in the United States. The sun shines most of the year and the snowfall averages 600 inches (15 metres) per year.
Shuttle buses from Reno-Tahoe International Airport will bring you to all sides of the lake. The wider area is best explored by car, while the water shuttle is great for hopping between docks along the shores in summer.
Sprawling forest reserves, such as Emerald Bay State Park, cover the Californian side of the lake. Tahoe City and Kings Beach offer good lake-side attractions. Nearby ski resorts are Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and Homewood Mountain. The Bavarian-style Sugar Bowl Resort is located near Truckee. Heavenly Mountain Resort in South Lake Tahoe spreads from California to Nevada and beats all the other resorts in size and attractions.
The Nevada side of the lake has casinos and more resorts and beaches. In summer, swim at Sand Harbour or Zephyr Cove Beach.
Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for its easy access, amazing scenery and year-round activities. Arrive early in the day and ride the slopes or kayak on the lake. By afternoon, try horseback riding or simply relax and read a book by the shore. In the evening, dine in one of the restaurants overlooking one of America’s most beautiful lakes.
Lake Tahoe Travel Guide
Where to stay in Lake Tahoe
Tahoe Sierra Estates
If you're spending some time in Tahoe Sierra Estates, North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum and Truckee River are top sights worth seeing.
Lake Forest
While visiting Lake Forest, you might make a stop by sights like Skylandia Park and Tahoe City Field Station.
Tahoe Tavern
When in Tahoe Tavern, you can plan a visit to North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Talmont
While Talmont isn't home to many top sights, Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park are some notable places to visit nearby.
Pineland
Though Pineland may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park.
Twin Peaks
While Twin Peaks isn't home to many top sights, Lakeview Ski Lift and Alpine Meadows Ski Resort are some notable places to visit nearby.
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 8 May 2024
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2024
Popular places to visit
North Lake Tahoe Visitors and Convention Bureau
Learn about the events happening in North Lake Tahoe Visitors and Convention Bureau during your trip to Lake Tahoe. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.
Granlibakken Resort Ski Area
Hit the slopes in Lake Tahoe with a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area. Wander through the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this quaint area.
Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park
Enjoy a trip to Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park and popular activities such as skiing in Lake Tahoe. Wander through the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
North Tahoe Regional Park
Catch an event at North Tahoe Regional Park and enjoy other activities in Lake Tahoe such as skiing.Amble around this quaint area's lakeside or seek out the hiking trails.
Tahoe City Marina
Explore the waterfront of Tahoe City Marina and enjoy activities such as skiing in Lake Tahoe. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside or seek out the hiking trails.
Commons Beach Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Commons Beach Park and enjoy the ski slopes in Lake Tahoe. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area or enjoy its hiking trails.