Top Things to do in Lake Tahoe (California)
Top Hotels in Lake Tahoe (California)
- 1. Forest Suites Resort at Heavenly Village
- 2. Stardust Lodge
- 3. Resort at Squaw Creek
- 4. Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe
- 5. Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe
- 6. The Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa
- 7. Tahoe Star Hotel
- 8. Heavenly Valley Lodge
- 9. Lake Tahoe Vacation Resort
- 10. Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites
10 Free Things to do in Lake Tahoe (California) That You Shouldn't Miss
Basking in its 300 days of sunshine, Lake Tahoe is a haven for outdoor fun in every season. Swimming, kayaking and windsurfing are popular in the summer months, while epic snowfall makes for spectacular skiing in winter. For those who prefer indoor fun, there's plenty of that in Tahoe, too. With 24-hour casinos and a flashy nightlife scene, the area has a tangible Vegas vibe. A sprinkle of bling, if you will. Not surprising, since Lake Tahoe straddles the border between California and Nevada.
Restaurants in Lake Tahoe (California)
1. Tahoe Rim Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
This 165-mile, twenty-four inch, single-track trail is open to hiking, equestrians, and mountain biking (in most areas). The trail encompasses the ridge tops of the Lake Tahoe Basin, crossing six counties, and two states. The Tahoe Rim Trail overlaps with approximately fifty miles of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.
2. Emerald Bay State Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 883 reviews
This spectacular bay in Lake Tahoe is best approached by hiking trails.
Reviewed By Alacrout - Los Angeles, United States
You really can’t go wrong with any part of Lake Tahoe, as the whole thing is surrounded by stunning mountain views. The views can get a little hazy during bad fire seasons, but still a beautiful area. Hard to pick a definitive “best” part of the Lake, but Emerald Bay is certainly up there as one of the best parts. The color of the water lives up to the name of “Emerald.” In the middle of the Bay, there’s a cute little island that is the ONLY island in Lake Tahoe. You can kayak, canoe, or boat to the island (NOT swim) and see the ruins of “Tea House,” where a quirky captain lived in the 1800s. Inspiration Point is a necessary stop on your way through the park—it gives you one of the best views of the entire Bay. Be sure to check out Vikingsholm too! :)
3. Glen Alpine Falls
4. South Lake Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By StorkRN1 - Roseville, United States
I actually went twice! I had to get the flight on a ski my first visit, and then just chose my fave the next time. The large ski flight includes every beer they have on tap! Glad I returned because the second time, the barkeep was much friendlier! Nice, fun ambiance and space!
5. Truckee River Bike Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By 33colettef
Not too challenging, and good for the entire family. Great way to bike from Squaw into town, have lunch, visit Commons beach and bike back again.
6. Eagle Rock Hiking Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
Reviewed By emorga - Rome, United States
This is a relatively easy trail to climb Its a little rough at the top navigating rocks as it loses it clear definition as a trail. Very enjoyable with lots of families having a fun outing
7. Truckee River Legacy Trail
8. Inspiration Point Vista
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 342 reviews
Look out over Emerald Bay.
Reviewed By MaryLynnD_13 - Laguna Vista, United States
Breathtaking scenery! Don’t miss it. Be careful driving up the winding road. Not a lot of guardrails!
9. Eagle Falls Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 304 reviews
A beautiful and well-marked trail.
Reviewed By MelissaG832 - Santa Barbara, United States
This hike is about 2 miles if you just go to the lake and back, which is what I did with my 10-year-old lab. Good dog-friendly hike where other dog-owners mostly kept their dogs on leashes as well. Some of the stone steps are a little high so you might need to pick your dog up if you have a small one but otherwise pretty straightforward. Weekends are impossible to park and we had to come back during the week and early in the morning to get a spot. Beautiful hike with great views, interesting terrain, and a amazing lake at the end.
10. Rainbow Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
For an easier hike, this handicapped-accessible paved trail provides signs for a self-guided tour.
Reviewed By Christina1119 - New Orleans, United States
The short 1/2 mile walk takes you through different areas & sights. In parts you see the fish spawning & beaver damns. The Aspen Grove were in their foliage change. It leads you into an under ground area where you can view fish & Information about the habitats of the animals in the area. It connects to Taylor Creek which had many viewing areas to see lots of fish. Great walk and a nice area.
