Things to do & places to visit in Lake Tahoe (California), California, United States

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.

Lake Tahoe (California) region in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 8:26.

Top things to do (13)

Top places to visit (15 attractions)

5.0 Emerald Bay State Park (921 reviews)
- Absolutely Gorgeous Scenery
Friday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Bodies of Water

With photo opportunities at every turn, this idyllic bay in Lake Tahoe is a must-see. Designated as a National Natural Landmark, Emerald Bay State Park is known for its large granite peaks and hiking trails. The best way to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes is along the Eagle Falls Vista Point Loop or Rubicon Trail. Be sure to tour the Vikingsholm Castle in the summer months—this landmark boasts fine Scandinavian architecture and has an interesting history. Those who prefer jumping into the cool waters can go kayaking or scuba diving too. Parking at Emerald Bay is limited, so arrive early to snag a spot. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Rubicon Trail (121 reviews)
- One of the most gorgeous trails
Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

The Rubicon Trail is one of the best long trails in the Lake Tahoe area. The hike could start from Eagle Point in Emerald Bay State Park and go all the way to Calawee Cove in the north over a distance of about 7 miles (oneway). The trail wraps around the Emerald Bay and provides gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe the whole way. There are several intermediate access points to get on the trail. Water is available at campgrounds along the trail, though it is insurance to carry water, especially on hot days. The trail is very well maintained and easy to follow. At the north end there is an alternate trail that goes by the old lighthouse; be aware that this section is a pretty steep climb. Even just a small part of the Rubicon Trail should be on the 'must do list' for any nature lover. It is an awesome trail with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. See more..
5.0 Truckee River Bike Trail (48 reviews)
- Amazing bike trail
Biking Trails

One of the most awesome bike trails anywhere. I did the part from Tahoe City to Olympic Valley. If you're not with children, keep going all the way to Truckee then over to Donner Lake. The Truckee River bike trail is perfect for bicyclers of any age. It's relatively level and there is amazing scenery the whole way. I did it on an e-bike with pedal assist, no throttle. That makes it even better because on the return trip you can boost the pedal assist a bit to get some extra speed. See more..
5.0 Donner Pass (41 reviews)
- Superb Drive over the Pass
Scenic Drives

I love the drive from Soda Springs to Donner Lake that takes me over this pass with the great views of the Lake and the mountains. I always stop at the view point to take a photo. Train tracks on the horizon. See more..
4.5 The Gondola at Heavenly (2.448 reviews)
- Magnificent views!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Trams • Ski & Snowboard Areas

True to its name, Heavenly is one of the most picturesque spots around Lake Tahoe. And there’s no better place to take it all in than on a gondola ride. Hop aboard a glass cabin and enjoy a 2.4-mile long journey over Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and stop at the Observation Deck on the way up for some photos. Your scenic gondola ticket grants access to hiking trails, climbing walls, and zip lines. In the winter, don’t miss out on a bundle deal where you can experience the thrill of riding an alpine coaster. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Pope Beach (312 reviews)
- Great fun beach!
Beaches

Wide sandy beach, popular with families. See more..
4.5 Lakeside Beach (162 reviews)
- Good spot, crowd-control
Spent 1-2 hours Beaches

We visited this beach several times during a week stay. It's clean and well looked after. They have a capacity each day that keeps the beach from being crowded. The only thing we didn't love was that they allowed people to play music loudly. I'm all for beach vibes, but when three or four groups are playing different music all at once - please be considerate of those around you. See more..
4.5 D.L. Bliss State Park (153 reviews)
- Good park to hike
State Parks

This state park in the Lake Tahoe region features one of the finest beaches in the area and several popular hiking trails. See more..
4.5 Commons Beach Park (92 reviews)
- Picturesque - check out the Penny Bear (Ursa Mater) and cubs
Beaches • Parks • Playgrounds

A beautiful park with trails, a picnic area, and an amphitheater located in Tahoe City. Restaurants and shopping adjacent. Check out the artwork at the amphitheater - "Ursa Mater" or "Penny Bear" - a 12-foot sculpture of a mother Grizzly Bear with cubs covered in pennies to simulate the fur. See photos See more..
4.5 Tahoe Trout Farm (86 reviews)
- Fun Family Morning
Farms

Had read about this place and the family enjoyed the experience. Small ponds with a beautiful view of the mountains. We got 5 rainbow trout in less than an hour. Owner explained we would need to keep and pay for everything we caught and could either take it to a local restaurant for them to cook for dinner, take it ourselves, or donate it to an animal rescue unit. See more..
4.5 Eagle Falls (83 reviews)
- Spectacular Scenery
Hiking Trails

This moderate to difficult trail goes to Upper and Lower Eagle Falls and offers spectacular scenery. See more..
4.5 Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery (65 reviews)
- Great place to visit any time of year.
Art Galleries

They have an excellent variety of artists and media available. The employees are attentive, but not pests like a used car lot. They will answer your questions, discuss the artist and provide assistance if asked. This gallery is always a fun place to visit any time of year, rain or shine. They host visiting artists throughout the year and we attend these receptions when we can. It is a great way to meet the artist, see their most recent work and possibly receive a discount on purchase while there with personalized details from the artist. See more..
4.5 Granlibakken Ski and Sled Area (55 reviews)
- Teens loved it
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas

Brought a group of teenagers here and they loved it. They went sledding. Make a reservation online. Parking is chaotic. They provide the saucers, you cannot use your own. Hill gets icier in the afternoon. There is a house to warm us and get a hot chocolate or hot spiced wine. There are some chairs for observers, but if you have some in your car, bring your own. See more..
4.5 Glen Alpine Falls (38 reviews)
- Beautiful! Very much worth the drive!
Spent 1-2 hours Waterfalls

This is a waterfall that foams over many rocks while coming down the hillside. The views are spectacular, with the mountains as a beautiful backdrop to these falls. At first I didn't know if we should proceed, as the road was a single lane and looked quite rustic (but it is paved). We had no mishaps - every oncoming driver was quite courteous and we managed just fine. The reward of the sight of the falls at the end of the road was definitely worth the drive. See more..
4.0 Heavenly Mountain Resort (814 reviews)
- Feb skiing
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ski & Snowboard Areas

Overlooking the sapphire-blue waters of Lake Tahoe, Heavenly is one of the most unique year round outdoor recreation destinations on the planet. Summer The summer activities at Heavenly Mountain Resort are a must-do during your trip to Lake Tahoe. Start with a scenic ride up the gondola, then choose from one of many other adventures! Tour through the trees on a zip line tour, a thrilling ride on one of our zip lines, challenge yourself on one of three ropes course, cruise on a 4X4 tour, choose from over 12 climbing routes on our 30 foot climbing wall or slide down the hill on our summer tubing hill. There’s the perfect activity for every member of your group. Winter With more terrain variety, more hidden glades, more rippin’ groomers than any Lake Tahoe resort, you've got plenty of decisions to make. See more..