Lake Tahoe – Travel Guide
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border between California and Nevada, is a year-round outdoor paradise renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. In the winter, the area transforms into a skier’s haven with world-class resorts like Heavenly and Squaw Valley. Come summer, visitors flock to its beaches, hiking trails, and scenic drives, including the famous Emerald Bay. Lake Tahoe’s vibrant towns, like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City, offer dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s skiing, boating, or simply unwinding, Lake Tahoe has it all.
All about Lake Tahoe
Getting around Lake Tahoe
By Public Transportation
Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) operates frequent bus routes on Lake Tahoe’s northern, and western shores, between Tahoma, and Incline Village. It also runs between Lake Tahoe, and Truckee, which is north of the lake. TART also offers on-demand, curb-to-curb service in Truckee, and North Lake Tahoe. The buses run varying timetables, and operating hours daily, depending on the route. Bus fares are free, Truckee Dial-a-Ride (the on-demand service) costs about $6 per one-way trip. TART Connect Zones 4 and 5 operate daily from 6:00 pm until midnight.
The Tahoe Transporation District offers service on the south shore and in the summertime offers bus services from Incline Village to Sand Harbor. The fares are based on the route and generally cost between $0-$4 for a one-way ride. Lake-Link is a service that runs in a select section of the south shore, it’s a free service. In the winter months, the Mountaineer on-demand shuttle service operates in North Tahoe’s Squaw Valley, it is a free app-based service that transports riders to and from their hotel. There is an Amtrack station located in Truckee that is served by Amtraks train, the California Zephyr which runs daily between Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. There is an Amtrak Thruway bus that connects South Lake Tahoe to the Capitol Corridor in Sacramento.
There is a public transit hub located in the downtown corridor between North Tahoe and South Tahoe, it is situated next to Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, and Heavenly Village.
By Car
Renting a car when visiting Lake Tahoe will allow you to explore the region and get around at your leisure. Having a car will allow you to get a real feel for the region, take a scenic ride along Highway 89 which is a 72-mile-long road that runs all the way around the lake. Renting a car can be done at the airport or at locations around town, having a car will allow you to explore the lesser-known spots that are not as heavily trafficked like Blackwood Canyon on Lake Tahoe’s west shore or views of teh green waters of North shore from The Emerald Bay lookout. Taking a trip here in the middle of the week will allow for more space and one of the most iconic places to take in Lake Tahoe’s views.
By Taxi
There are taxi services available 24/7 in Lake Tahoe. They can be found outside major hotels, resorts, and attractions. There are also Uber and Lyft that run in North Lake Tahoe.
By Boat
There are many options to take a boat ride on Lake Tahoe. The seasonal Lake Tahoe Water Taxis operates a regular route on the south shore between the Round Hill Pines Marina and the Camp Richardson Marina, and links to several South Shore beaches. A round-trip ticket will cost around $25 per adult, round trip fare for kids costs $15.
You can rent an electric boat or eFoil to get out on the water and keep it charged at Homewood Marina using their new electric boat and eFoil chargers.
There are many companies that offer visitors chances to rent a boat for the day, whether it’s a day of fishing, sailing, or even a luxury day on a yacht, travelers can book a boat and secure a captain. There is an app called GetMyBoat that offers over 100 boats to rent or charter on the lake. The company offers a host of professional, licensed charter captains who are available to take people out on the boat.
On Foot
There are many quaint towns dotted along the shores of Lake Tahoe that are easily accessible to explore on foot. The spectacular surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains are brimming with scenic hiking trails. The best Lake Tahoe hiking trails range from easy strolls to steep switchbacks that lead into the clouds. There are many great places to explore on foot in Lake Tahoe such as the verdant forest around Tahoe City, the cascading waterfalls of Shirley Canyon, Incline Village, Squaw Valley, and Heavenly. The majority of shops and accommodations that visitors need to reach are found within walking distance or a short walk. Much of the destinations within Tahoe are self-contained and easily navigable on foot. Some of Tahoe’s best trails to explore on foot are the Tahoe East Shore Trail which connects Incline Village to the beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach, other signature trails include the Tahoe Rim Trail, and the Monkey Rock Trail.
By Bicycle
Yes, riding a bicycle in and around Lake Tahoe is a pleasurable experience with some of the most spectacular, scenic views and varied terrain. The mountains and valleys here provide many opportunities for mountain biking, there are numerous trails that range in length, difficulty, and popularity. One of the most famous is the Tahoe Rim Trail which stretches for 165 miles and circumnavigates the lake. Eagle Lake trailhead is a popular destination located near Emerald Bay on Tahoe’s west shore, it allows access to the equally popular Desolation Wilderness. The Flume Trail of the East Shore is one of the Top 10 Trails in the U.S. according to Mountain Biking Magazine.
There are also over 50 miles of paved off-road bicycle paths that meander through communities on all sides of the lake. There are literally hundreds of backcountry trails, parks, and paved paths to allow for the perfect cycling experience. The North Shore of Lake Tahoe offers miles of paved bike paths along the lakeside and into the verdant forest. There are tons of sightseeing opportunities right along the Lake along with restaurants, bars, shopping, and beaches to check out along the way. There are options for renting bikes all around Lake Tahoe. There are also electric bikes and scooters available, this service is quite simple, download the app, and unlock a bike or scooter by scanning a barcode that’s linked to your account. When the user is done, the bikes and scooters can be left wherever they are or at a nearby hub listed on the app.
Lake Tahoe FAQ
How do I get to Lake Tahoe?
The Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located in the heart of Reno about 60 miles north of Lake Tahoe, which is about a 45-minute drive. North Lake Tahoe is located within 2 hours driving distance of the Sacramento International Airport.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
The North Tahoe Express Bus is a year-round scheduled shuttle service that departs from the airport with a number of stops offered around the North Lake and Truckee Regions. Services start at 6:30 am and run until around midnight.
The South Tahoe Airporter offers round-trip, door-to-door motorcoach transportation services directly to six resorts in South Lake Tahoe for about $30 per person.
The North Lake Tahoe Express offers service between the airport and the North Lake Tahoe Truckee region for around $100 per person. There is also a city bus that connects the airport to downtown Reno. There are plenty of rental car companies located at the airport. Vehicles can be collected from the parking garage located just outside the baggage claim area.
There are numerous taxis found at the airport as well as ride-hailing services like Uber, and Lyft. The passenger waiting area for taxis is found outside of the D Doors located north of the Baggage Claim. This is the same area where Ride-hailing services pick up passengers.
The City Bus service is provided by RTC RIDE and travels between the airport, downtown Reno, and Meadowood Mall. Connections to other destinations can be found at the downtown Reno or Meadowood Mall stops. The RTC Route 12 is teh closest stop to the airport with a pickup and drop-off location found near Terminal Way, and Villanova Drive. This route operates 7 days a week.
How do I get around by public transportation?
Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) operates frequent bus routes on Lake Tahoe’s northern, and western shores, between Tahoma, and Incline Village. It also runs between Lake Tahoe, and Truckee, which is north of the lake. TART also offers on-demand, curb-to-curb service in Truckee, and North Lake Tahoe. The buses run varying timetables, and operating hours daily, depending on the route. Bus fares are free, Truckee Dial-a-Ride (the on-demand service) costs about $6 per one-way trip. TART Connect Zones 4 and 5 operate daily from 6:00 pm until midnight.
The Tahoe Transporation District offers service on the south shore and in the summertime offers bus services from Incline Village to Sand Harbor. The fares are based on the route and generally cost between $0-$4 for a one-way ride. Lake-Link is a service that runs in a select section of the south shore, it’s a free service. In the winter months, the Mountaineer on-demand shuttle service operates in North Tahoe’s Squaw Valley, it is a free app-based service that transports riders to and from their hotel. There is an Amtrack station located in Truckee that is served by Amtraks train, the California Zephyr which runs daily between Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. There is an Amtrak Thruway bus that connects South Lake Tahoe to the Capitol Corridor in Sacramento.
There is a public transit hub located in the downtown corridor between North Tahoe and South Tahoe, it is situated next to Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, and Heavenly Village.
How do I call or hail a taxi?
There are taxi services available 24/7 in Lake Tahoe. They can be found outside major hotels, resorts, and attractions. There are also Uber and Lyft that run in North Lake Tahoe.
Can I take a boat ride in Lake Tahoe?
There are many options to take a boat ride on Lake Tahoe. The seasonal Lake Tahoe Water Taxis operates a regular route on the south shore between the Round Hill Pines Marina and the Camp Richardson Marina, and links to several South Shore beaches. A round-trip ticket will cost around $25 per adult, round trip fare for kids costs $15.
You can rent an electric boat or eFoil to get out on the water and keep it charged at Homewood Marina using their new electric boat and eFoil chargers.
There are many companies that offer visitors chances to rent a boat for the day, whether it’s a day of fishing, sailing, or even a luxury day on a yacht, travelers can book a boat and secure a captain. There is an app called GetMyBoat that offers over 100 boats to rent or charter on the lake. The company offers a host of professional, licensed charter captains who are available to take people out on the boat.
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Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
Should I rent a car to visit Napa Valley?
Renting a car when visiting Lake Tahoe will allow you to explore the region and get around at your leisure. Having a car will allow you to get a real feel for the region, take a scenic ride along Highway 89 which is a 72-mile-long road that runs all the way around the lake. Renting a car can be done at the airport or at locations around town, having a car will allow you to explore the lesser-known spots that are not as heavily trafficked like Blackwood Canyon on Lake Tahoe’s west shore or views of the green waters of North shore from The Emerald Bay lookout. Taking a trip here in the middle of the week will allow for more space and one of the most iconic places to take in Lake Tahoe’s views.
Is Lake Tahoe a walking city?
There are many quaint towns dotted along the shores of Lake Tahoe that are easily accessible to explore on foot. The spectacular surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains are brimming with scenic hiking trails. The best Lake Tahoe hiking trails range from easy strolls to steep switchbacks that lead into the clouds. There are many great places to explore on foot in Lake Tahoe such as the verdant forest around Tahoe City, the cascading waterfalls of Shirley Canyon, Incline Village, Squaw Valley, and Heavenly. The majority of shops and accommodations that visitors needs to reach are found within walking distance or a short walk. Much of the destinations within Tahoe are self-contained and easily navigable on foot. Some of Tahoe’s best trails to explore on foot are the Tahoe East Shore Trail which connects Incline Village to the beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach, other signature trails include the Tahoe Rim Trail, and the Monkey Rock Trail.
Can I ride a bike in Lake Tahoe?
Yes, riding a bicycle in and around Lake Tahoe is a pleasurable experience with some of the most spectacular, scenic views and varied terrain. The mountains and valleys here provide many opportunities for mountain biking, there are numerous trails that range in length, difficulty, and popularity. One of the most famous is the Tahoe Rim Trail which stretches for 165 miles and circumnavigates the lake. Eagle Lake trailhead is a popular destination located near Emerald Bay on Tahoe’s west shore, it allows access to the equally popular Desolation Wilderness. The Flume Trail of the East Shore is one of the Top 10 Trails in the U.S. according to Mountain Biking Magazine.
There are also over 50 miles of paved off-road bicycle paths that meander through communities on all sides of the lake. There are literally hundreds of backcountry trails, parks, and paved paths to allow for the perfect cycling experience. The North Shore of Lake Tahoe offers miles of paved bike paths along the lakeside and into the verdant forest. There are tons of sightseeing opportunities right along the Lake along with restaurants, bars, shopping, and beaches to check out along the way. There are options for renting bikes all around Lake Tahoe. There are also electric bikes and scooters available, this service is quite simple, download the app, and unlock a bike or scooter by scanning a barcode that’s linked to your account. When the user is done, the bikes and scooters can be left wherever they are or at a nearby hub listed on the app.
Is Lake Tahoe a dangerous destination, is there anything I should be aware of?
Lake Tahoe is considered a very safe destination to visit. Take the necessary precautions when sightseeing, use common sense, and keep your valuables out of sight from pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets, and tourist attractions. At night stay in well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation companies instead of taking rides from strangers.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
When it comes to shopping in Lake Tahoe there are several locations to choose from. Taking in the sheer size of the lake and its charming, scenic towns that sit on its shores there are endless possibilities for a shopping trip. Each of the Lake Tahoe resorts and towns offers its own unique selection of local boutiques, shops, and markets to choose from. Some of the shopping hotspots in Lake Tahoe include South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, Incline Village, Truckee, King’s Beach, Olympic Valley, and Northstar California to name a few. This region is very vast, shopping here can be a sport in itself, you will be unlikely to experience all the shopping it has to offer in one trip. There are a multitude of shopping opportunities to check out including several large shopping malls, plenty of ski resort shops, as well as independent boutiques, and even some unique artisan marketplaces. There are some uniquely crafted, one-of-a-kind, Lake Tahoe pieces made by local Lake Tahoe artists, which make for the perfect gift to take home for you, or your family and friends. Some popular things to purchase include outdoor gear like hiking and skiing equipment, boating and watersport equipment, whimsical sculptures, fossils, local artwork, photography, jewelry, and clothing.
Here are a few popular shopping destinations in Lake Tahoe to choose from. Heavenly Village is located a the base of the Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola boasting over 40 shops featuring local and national brands. It is also home to some of the top-rated, most popular restaurants in Lake Tahoe. Shoppers can stroll along teh cobblestone sidewalks and enjoy the unique collection of shops, eateries, and entertainment options right in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. There is an 8-plex movie theater, live theatre, an outdoor ice skating rink, miniature golf, and live music daily.
The Village at Northstar features a plethora of stores such as The North Face, Patagonia, Oakley, Lululemon, Burton, and Lole. There are shops selling everything from ski and snowboarding equipment, to designer clothing and shoes, handmade jewelry, and children’s toys. There are other great opportunities such as spa services and a wide variety of dining options. In the heart of this shopping area, there is a large ice rink offering ice skating in the winter, and roller skating in the summer. There is an outdoor area with couches, gas fire pits, and two bars, so there is plenty of entertainment when you need a break from shopping.
The shops of Tahoe City are a treat as shoppers can take in some of the incredible lakeside views in this shopping haven. This walkable downtown area offers everything from boutiques, sports shops, seasonal goods, local artisan shops, and jewelry. Common’s Beach is set in the heart of downtown and decorated with picnic tables, and a play area for the kids, a great place to soak up the views.
Truckee has many shopping opportunities to offer with art galleries, boutiques, sports stores, specialty shops, and more in this historic downtown area. Shoppers can watch the train go by, dine al fresco, or participate in a walking history tour. Truckee is rich in history and boasts a quaint downtown with authentic charm with many of its shops housed in the original historic buildings.
The Village at Palisades Tahoe features over 17 different stores including fashion boutiques, art galleries, kids stores, specialty shops, and sporting goods stores. Shoppers can also enjoy outdoor dining at some of the best outdoor patios and sundecks around the lake. In the summertime, visitors can explore Palisades Tahoe’s most iconic rock face on Lake Tahoe’s only Via Ferrata. They can rent bikes and cruise the scenic bike path or take the scenic aerial tram up to High Camp and participate in rollerskating, hiking, or disc golf.
What is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe?
There are four distinct seasons in Lake Tahoe, it features a dry-summer continental climate with warm, dry summers, and chilly winters with regular snowfall. Most of the snowfall occurs between November and April, and there are monsoon storms that occur in the summertime that come from the Great Basin bringing intense rainfall. There are around 300 sunny days in Lake Tahoe which makes it a great destination for outdoor activities year-round. However, you cannot predict the weather and there has actually been snowfall every month in Lake Tahoe, it’s a good idea to pack for all weather conditions. Mountain conditions can vary greatly, the coldest month is January with daytime highs around 41 degrees, and the hottest month is typically July where daily temperatures hit the 80s. All this being said Lake Tahoe is a very popular vacation destination all year round, there are beach, boat, and lake days to be had in the summer months, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is from March to May, or September to November with a wide variety of attractions, and activities to enjoy during these times. There are a number of fun festivals and events held throughout the year to come and enjoy in Lake Tahoe. The Valhalla Art, Music, and Theatre Festival from mid-June to October where visitors can catch a concert, play, or comedy show. The Wa She Shu It’ Deh Native American Arts Festival is held in late July. The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is held at Sand Harbor beginning in early July through most of August.
What is the nightlife like?
Lake Tahoe has a wide array of bars and restaurants as well as a plethora of casinos and other nightlife options to suit your fancy. The bar scene in Lake Tahoe is full of fun options with sports bars, rustic mountain pubs, craft breweries, and chic clubs visitors have all the elements they need to enjoy a relaxing evening soaking up the local culture. The bars and restaurants on the shores of Lake Tahoe offer up some stunning craft cocktails, craft distilled gins and whiskey, and Tahoe beers that are actually brewed using water from the lake. There are also plenty of options for the wine lover with local winemakers serving up small-batch wines in a friendly, and welcoming atmosphere around the lake. The Lake Tahoe area also features its fair share of food, wine, and beer festivals throughout the year. The Tahoe Brewfest for example which takes place in the summer, and Brews, Jazz, and Funk Fest held in August are both worth checking out. The North Tahoe Lake Ale Trail is a craft beer lovers’ dream with over a dozen places to quench your thirst along the way. The South Tahoe Beer Trail is another similar option to check out, get your exercise in, and reward yourself with food and beer breaks along the way. There are many wonderful places to relax after a busy day on the lake or the slopes when visiting Lake Tahoe. Many places offer happy hour specials, live music, delicious food to accompany your refreshing drinks and to top it all off many boast some of the best views of the lake as well as the perfect spot for a stunning sunset.
Casinos are another popular option that can be found on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. The larger casinos are nestled close to each other along U.S. Highway 50 on the southern end of the lake. There are a variety of casinos to choose from such as Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Montbleu Resort Casino, and Harvey’s which is one of the oldest casinos in the area. The casinos are open 24/7 where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of accommodations, live entertainment, concerts, swimming pools, spas, shopping, golfing, and ski packages. There are also some excellent restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines. Gaming includes slots, cards, craps, poker, blackjack, video poker, sports booking and more.
What is the currency in Lake Tahoe?
The currency of Lake Tahoe is the US dollar. You should either exchange your currency for US dollars. Cash is preferred, there are ATMs found at the airport and locations in the city, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The units of currency in Great Britain are the pound sterling (£) and pence (p). US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for pounds (or quid) upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city. For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in the United Kingdom by clicking here.
What is the food like?
There are a variety of great dining options that line the shores of Lake Tahoe and are sure to satisfy your tastebuds. There are restaurants to cater to everyones needs including family-friendly restaurants, upscale dining, casual bistro-style restaurants, alpine comfort dining, laid-back ski lodges, long-standing fine dining options, fast food, rustic outdoor cafes, and more. Finding a restaurant that serves up a delicious meal is not hard to come by in Lake Tahoe, there are several different towns and communities dotted around the lake and a place to enjoy a meal is the least of your worries. You can dine at restaurants serving up classic American fare, Mediterranean, Asian, Italian, French, and more there’s a variety of options to choose from.
If you’re staying at a resort while visiting Lake Tahoe then you have plenty of dining options right at your fingertips. Resorts and hotels offer on-site restaurants that make it simple to enjoy a meal without leaving the comfort of your accommodations. However, it is well worth it to get out and explore some of the fabulous lakeside restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, and pubs for a meal or two.
There are options for a quick bite to eat before you hit the slopes or beaches, and fantastic options for a memorable fine dining experience with a five-course meal and stunning lakeside views for a more elevated experience, either way, your choices for fantastic eateries are plentiful. World-class flavors, expertly crafted fare, and signature service can be found all over the region. Many of the restaurants in Lake Tahoe use the freshest possible local ingredients produce, and meats to prepare their signature menus.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of an emergency dial 911 for police, ambulance, and fire.
Hospitals:Barton Memorial Hospital tel. 530-541-3420
Tahoe Forest Hospital tel. 530-587-6011
Incline Village Community Hospital tel.775-833-4100
Top Attractions
Emerald Bay State Park
Explore Emerald Bay State Park, a stunning natural gem featuring scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and the historic Vikingsholm Castle along Lake Tahoe’s pristine shores.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Enjoy Heavenly Mountain Resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking gondola rides with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe’s majestic landscapes.
Sand Harbor Beach
Relax at Sand Harbor Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and spectacular granite rock formations, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing.
Donner Memorial State Park
Visit this State Park, where history meets nature, with exhibits on the Donner Party, hiking trails, and a tranquil lake surrounded by towering pines.
Unique Experiences
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Cruise Lake Tahoe’s stunning waters on a guided boat tour, exploring scenic Emerald Bay, hidden coves, and historic landmarks while enjoying panoramic mountain views.
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Experience the thrill of Heavenly Gondola, soaring above Lake Tahoe, offering breathtaking vistas, followed by hiking or skiing depending on the season.
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Paddle through the clear waters of Sand Harbor on a guided kayak tour, exploring hidden beaches, granite boulders, and enjoying close-up views of Lake Tahoe’s beauty.
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Embark on a guided hiking tour through Emerald Bay’s trails, offering stunning views of the lake, waterfalls, and the historic Vikingsholm Castle along the way.
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Delight in Lake Tahoe’s culinary scene with a guided tour featuring gourmet tastings, local wines, and the best dining spots around the lake’s vibrant towns.
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What to expect while traveling
