The Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe During Your Vacation
Lake Tahoe is a fantastic year-round location for vacationers as well as residents.
This destination has a lot going for it. The area experiences over 270 days of sunshine every year and deep mountain snowfalls for winter sports. The water in the lake is so pure that it almost matches distilled water.
With conditions such as these, it’s not hard to imagine that there are a huge variety of awesome things to do in Lake Tahoe during your vacation.
The Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
Before you book your vacation property, it makes sense to start planning what to do in Tahoe. Here’s a snapshot of the best Lake Tahoe vacation ideas.
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Emerald Bay State Park
Pristine scenes of granite cliffs and towering trees greet you at Emerald Bay State Park. The park is rated as one of the most appealing places to visit in Lake Tahoe and you’ll find it on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe.
Pack your scuba gear to delve into the mysteries of the Underwater Park, step back in time at the historic summer home of Vikingsholm or relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. A camera is a must for a trip to Emerald Bay State Park.
- Also See – Top 10 Best National Parks in the World
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Kings Beach State Recreation Area
Slip on some sandals and head for the blazing sands and cool waters of Lake Tahoe’s Northern shores. Swimming, boating, sunbathing, picnicking and a children’s’ playground are some of the activities available at this popular spot.
Afterward, take a stroll to nearby Tahoe Vista, Kings Beach, or Carnelian Bay for a bite to eat.
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Squaw Valley
If you are looking for winter-time things to do in Tahoe, Squaw Valley is a great choice.
Here you can take your pick from numerous ski runs traversing over 4,000 acres of ski-worthy terrain. The sheer size of this resort can be intimidating, but the advanced lift system makes light work of getting around.
During the summer months, the mountains around Lake Tahoe keep their winter coats a little longer than most, allowing for an extended ski and snowboarding season.
When the melt does eventually come, you can console yourself with lounging around the swimming lagoon or enjoying a round of golf instead. An arcade, climbing wall and luxurious spa complete the picture at Squaw Valley.
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Harrah’s Casino
Harrah’s Casino offers a glittering break from the outdoorsy scene around Lake Tahoe. Take a trip across the border to Stateline, Nevada to this low-key, friendly venue where you can catch a show, dance the night away, or try your luck at table games and slot machines.
While it’s a far cry from Vegas, the casino offers around-the-clock action every day of the week.
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Go Hiking in the Hills
All around Lake Tahoe you’ll find mountains and meadows that beg exploration. From the towering heights of Mount Rose to the gentle trails around Eagle Falls, you’ll find an appealing reason to get on your feet when you visit Lake Tahoe.
There are 8 established hiking routes in the area and many less formal routes to explore. Hiking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the gorgeous scenery and natural abundance around these parts.
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Make the Most of the Lake
Naturally, Lake Tahoe itself is the main attraction in the area. These watery depths are the perfect playground for water sports enthusiasts.
The lake is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide, providing ample room to maneuver when it comes to playtime. Some of the watersport options on Lake Tahoe include:
- Fly fishing
- Wake Boarding
- Waterskiing
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Sunset Cruises
- Parasailing
Although not strictly a water sport, soaring over the waters in a hot air balloon or a helicopter offers a chance to enjoy one of the USA’s most beautiful places from another angle.
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Go Cross Country at Northstar
Northstar’s Cross Country Center poses the perfect question to bike enthusiasts with the chance to head out on a fat tire bike. It’s like riding a bike, except these all-terrain two-wheelers eat up the miles effortlessly over even the snowiest terrain.
Fat tire biking is the ultimate way to explore the mountains and forests around Lake Tahoe at your own pace.
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Keep the Kids Amused
KidZone is the perfect place for under 5’s to spend a few hours hanging out with their peers. There is a wide range of interactive play areas to keep them busy.
Most of the facilities are located indoors for all-weather fun and they can also take part in painting and cooking activities. There is always some kind of organized activity on the go at KidZone, from farmyard fun to arts and crafts.
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Camp Richardson Corral
This is your go-to place for horseback activities around Lake Tahoe. You can set out on a gentle mountainside trail, gallop through pastures or take a sleigh ride when the ice is just right on the lake.
Pony rides are available for children over 6 years old as well as hay-rides, half-day rides, and even pack trips over several days.
Exploring the countryside on horseback is a wonderful way to get in touch with nature, view the local wildlife and travel effortlessly through the great outdoors.
- You May Like – How to Plan a Camping Trip You’ll Never Forget
10. Hang out with the Locals
Wherever you go in Lake Tahoe, you’ll meet friendly local folk who are keen to introduce you to their world of attractive recreation options.
Head down to MacDuff’s Pub or the McP’s Taphouse Grill and join the locals for an after-work drink. The regular plays, concerts and foodie events are a great opportunity to mingle with the crowds.
You can sign up for a weekly newsletter of local events and news before you arrive.
Explore More
Whether you are looking for the best things to do in Lake Tahoe or planning a world tour, you are sure to find inspiration in the Travel section of our blog.
Start planning your next getaway with us and have an unforgettable vacation.
