Find your dream vacation in Lake Tahoe! As the area is divided into two different sections (North and South, California side and Nevada side), Tahoe has plenty to keep even the most adventurous people happy.
Lake Tahoe is an ethereal, shimmering blue water oasis surrounded by magnificent mountains and nestled between national parks and nature reserves.
Here, life is a little lush, regardless if you choose the city side or simply set down a tent for the night. Wherever you go in Tahoe, you will surely never forget the views!
To help with slimming down the options, here are some of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe.
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Take the road frequently traveled by! Emerald Bay State Park is a large nature preservation area dedicated to providing some of the best views in all of Tahoe.
Here you’ll follow trails up and down the mountain that opens up at some of the most breathtaking lookout points on all the West Coast.
Emerald Bay is a popular attraction, and even if you aren’t up for hiking, it’s definitely worth the drive up the mountain for a few birds-eye views of the lake down below. Wherever the path leads you, it won’t steer you wrong!
Address: 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
It’s all in the name: this is heaven! Heavenly Mountain is a resort and an entertainment park all wrapped into one impressive expanse of fun.
During the wintertime, the trails and paths are dotted with enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders shredding the freshest snow in the city.
Even in the summer, this resort does not close its doors: but instead transforms into a summer hotspot. Complete with two zip lines, a rollercoaster, a rock wall, and several other thrills-seeking adventures.
Not to mention a gondola ride with a view of the entire Lake which will you leave you stunned from start to stop.
Address: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, CA 96150
While this may not be the most uplifting story to follow, the Donner summit and hike is one of the things to do in Lake Tahoe that can't be missed.
This will take you through a town with the history of the Donner Party on display, as well as lead you to the path where many have trailed.
Visitors leave raving about the chilling yet fascinating story of this family trek through the wilderness.
Address: Donner Summit Rd, California
Everyone loves a good day at the beach! El Dorado Beach is one of the few beaches that is accessible to the public in South Lake Tahoe.
This beach is well known for its famous ‘Live At Lakeview’ concert, as well as special holiday parties such as the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve. This is a great place just to sit back and relax, or maybe try your hands at slacklining on the beach.
Address: 1004 Lakeview Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Dating all the way back to 1929, Vikingsholm is one of the oldest establishments in the area and is located at the head of Emerald Bay. Vikingsholm can be reached by taking a one-mile trail from the parking lot.
It is a rare masterpiece representing the old Scandinavian architecture and a great destination for a day of hiking, sightseeing, and looking into history. Walk around, peruse, and marvel at the way such beauty has survived the test of time.
Address: CA-89, Tahoma, CA 96142
A secluded beach without being desolate. And pretty accurately named as well, considering in the center of the sand sits an old chimney.
Here, you will have to take a short path down the trail from your parking spot to the patch of sand that meets the water just below.
While it may not formally be a dog park, it is dog friendly and often includes many locals and tourists alike looking to soak up some sun.
Address: Carson City, NV 89703
What could be the better way to see the lake than to ride it? Considering Lake Tahoe’s big claim to fame is the lake itself, taking a boat tour is one opportunity you won’t want to miss. There are various private boat charters, and boat rental options available around the lake. Check out the docks for exclusive deals.
Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA
The snow-lovers paradise! Squaw Valley is famous for being one of the longest-running ski and snowboarding facilities, as well as offering a state-of-the-art aerial tramway.
While it is not open year-round, you can count on some of the best and freshly fallen snow in Tahoe to be found on these slopes from September to May.
Address: Olympic Valley, CA 96146
A truly stunning view with a short hike that is well worth the effort! Lower Eagles Falls not only includes a magnificent waterfall but also views from the cliffs of both the town of South Lake Tahoe and the reflective lake itself.
All visitors who take this hike give it some of the highest marks for being one of the best things to do in Tahoe for sunset with an awe-inspiring view.
Address: Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe, CA
The ultimate hike! Cover all corners of Lake Tahoe by traversing the famous ‘Tahoe Rim Trail’, which will literally take you 360 degrees around the outline of the lake.
Some paths go far down the beach, whereas others lead you all the way to the peaks of mountains, and yet the one constant is that the beauty never fades no matter where it leads you.