Lake Tahoe

The basics

Much of the world discovered Lake Tahoe when the Squaw Valley ski resort hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, and it has been a favorite destination ever since. Lake Tahoe is split into two sections: North Lake, which includes the towns of Truckee and Tahoe City, and South Lake, which includes the city of South Lake Tahoe.

Head to Tahoe for world-class skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Heavenly Mountain, Sugar Bowl, and Kirkwood. In addition to downhill skiing, the area offers snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and other winter fun. In the summer, the area is popular for kayaking, boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The surrounding area is a popular camping spot and offers hiking and biking paths. A range of Lake Tahoe tours are available, from self-driving day tours to boat trips.

Things to know before you go

• The lake's elevation is 6,225 feet (1,897 meters), and mountain resorts sit even higher, so prepare for the altitude by staying hydrated.

• The sun is strong in the mountains—wear sun protection year-round.

• If you don't have a 4WD vehicle with snow tires, you'll probably need chains in the winter. Mountain passes have checkpoints, and the highway patrol enforces snow chain regulations.

• You can purchase snow chains from licensed vendors who set up on the sides of the roads.

How to get there

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest major airport to Lake Tahoe. It's about 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Incline Village in North Lake Tahoe and 60 miles (95 km) from South Lake Tahoe. If you're coming by car, take Interstate 80 from San Francisco and Sacramento, US 50 from Sacramento, or US 395 from Yosemite National Park.

When to get there

Ski season is generally late November–April. Winter holidays and long weekends such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July, are the most crowded. There are very few roads through the mountains and around the lake, so traffic can back up. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and a more relaxing environment, though some businesses close during the shoulder seasons.

Truckee River

During the summer, if you've had your fill of lake activities, head to the Truckee River, located between the lake and the quaint, historic town of Truckee. You can spend your time river rafting or exploring the walking and biking paths that run along the riverbank next to State Route 89.

How many days do you need to see Lake Tahoe?

You'll need at least two days in Lake Tahoe, but many travelers stay for a week (or more) to thoroughly enjoy the Sierra Nevada mountain town's many offerings. Outdoor attractions including water sports, hiking, and skiing mix with casinos and lake cruises for a lot to do in Lake Tahoe.

What types of tours can you do of Lake Tahoe?

There are many types of tours at Lake Tahoe. The most popular choices include Lake Tahoe cruises covering Emerald Bay or Zephyr Cove, helicopter tours, kayaking tours, and e-bike tours. Day trips from Lake Tahoe to nearby Wild West towns and Yosemite are also available.

What is the best month to go to Lake Tahoe?

If you want to ski or snowboard in Lake Tahoe, visit in winter (ideally February) when there's enough snowpack on the slopes. To experience being on the lake and outdoor activities like hiking, come in May before the summer crowds arrive. Late summer offers the warmest weather.

What is so special about Lake Tahoe?

Brilliantly blue Lake Tahoe is one of the purest lakes in the United States. Its clear water coupled with the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains makes it the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. The large lake straddles between California and Nevada, so there is plenty to explore.

Are pets allowed at Lake Tahoe?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Lake Tahoe, but only in some areas. Privately owned beaches and swimming-only beaches may not allow dogs, so it's best to check before you go. Pet-friendly beaches include Kiva Beach and Coon Street Dog Beach.

What are the entrance fees to Lake Tahoe?

There are no entrance fees to get into the towns surrounding Lake Tahoe, but many things near the lake come with a price. For example, some beaches charge entry fees, some hiking areas require permits, and your hotel or rental costs are sure to be high, especially in summer.

Ways to explore

Lake Tahoe is split into two sections: North Lake, which includes the towns of Truckee and Tahoe City, and South Lake, home to the city of South Lake Tahoe. Whichever you choose, head to Lake Tahoe for world-class skiing and snowboarding at Heavenly Ski Resort, Sugar Bowl Resort, and Kirkwood Ski Resort. In addition to downhill skiing, the area offers snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and other winter fun.

In the summer, the area is popular for kayaking, boating, hiking, and biking. A range of Lake Tahoe tours is also available, from self-driving day tours to boat trips.

Accessibility

Some tours of Lake Tahoe are accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Rain gear and sun protection, camera, backpack, water bottle

What to wear

Come prepared with light layers, hiking boots, and swimwear in the summer, and bring your snow gear in the winter.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Ski resorts, trails, state park facilities

Address 

Lake Tahoe spans two states, and is 22 miles (35 kilometers) long and 12 miles (19 kilometers) wide, with a 75-mile (121-kilometer) circumference. As such, there are numerous access points—but driving is the best way to get there.

Driving

Several major roads combine to circle the lake, including US Route 50, CA-89, and NV-28. A range of free and paid parking options is located at various points along or near the lake.

Public transportation

There are limited public transportation options around Lake Tahoe, which include Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) and Tahoe Transportation District bus services. Alternatively, use the on-demand rideshare-like service Lake Link.

Best times to visit

Time your Lake Tahoe visit for early in the morning—you’ll want to set aside at least a full day for your explorations.

Best days to visit

Expect Lake Tahoe to be busiest on weekends and holidays; weekday trips are likely to be quieter.

Best months to visit

Visit in the summer for swimming and hiking, in the winter for skiing and snowboarding, or aim for fall for pretty foliage and fewer crowds.

Special events

There are many annual events around Lake Tahoe, including North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST, the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, and the Lights on the Lake fireworks display on July 4.