103 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination for every kind of traveler. This guide, 103 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe, gives you a comprehensive list of the best activities to help you make the most of your visit. Dive in and start planning an unforgettable Tahoe trip with these 103 things to do in Lake Tahoe!

1. Hike Eagle Lake Trail

A quick 2-mile round-trip trail leading to a stunning alpine lake. Perfect for families or anyone wanting beautiful views without a long hike.

2. Hit the Slopes at Heavenly Ski Resort

With over 4,800 acres of terrain, Heavenly offers something for every skier and snowboarder. The scenic views of Lake Tahoe make it extra special.

3. Take a Gondola Ride at Heavenly

For non-skiers, the Heavenly Gondola provides breathtaking views and an observation deck halfway up to soak in the scenery.

4. Relax on Sand Harbor Beach

Known for its crystal-clear water and soft sandy shores, Sand Harbor is ideal for a day of lounging, swimming, and picnicking.

5. Go Paddleboarding at Kings Beach

The calm, shallow water here is perfect for beginners. Rent a board and paddle along the shoreline for an easy, scenic experience.

6. Explore Vikingsholm Castle

This Scandinavian-style mansion in Emerald Bay offers tours that dive into Tahoe’s unique history. It’s a short hike from the parking lot.

7. Drive the Scenic Tahoe Rim Trail

Take a drive or go hiking on sections of this 170-mile trail. The views of the lake and surrounding mountains are unbeatable.

8. Try Snowshoeing at Echo Lake

In winter, Echo Lake transforms into a snowy paradise perfect for snowshoeing. Rentals are often available nearby.

9. See Emerald Bay from Above

Stop at Inspiration Point, a lookout spot with panoramic views of Emerald Bay. Great for photos and a quick breath of fresh air.

10. Rent a Boat on Lake Tahoe

For a fun day on the water, rent a boat and explore the lake at your own pace. Emerald Bay is a must-see from the water.

11. Bike the Tahoe East Shore Trail

This paved, scenic trail is ideal for biking or walking along the lake’s shore with beautiful lake views all the way.

12. Explore the Tallac Historic Site

Walk through a series of 1920s summer estates turned museum. It’s a fun step back in time with beautiful gardens and lake views.

FUN FACT!
Tahoe is so clear that in some places objects can be seen to depths of over 70 feet. One reason is that 40 percent of the precipitation falling into the Lake Tahoe Basin falls directly upon the Lake.
Source: Keep Tahoe Blue

13. Kayak at Meeks Bay

Rent a kayak and paddle through the calm, turquoise waters of Meeks Bay. It’s quiet and peaceful, perfect for nature lovers.

14. Take a Sunset Cruise

Join a sunset boat tour to soak in Lake Tahoe’s beauty during golden hour. It’s a really relaxing and scenic experience on the water.

15. Zipline at Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park

For a thrill, try the ropes courses and ziplines high up in the trees. Perfect for families and adventure seekers.

16. Take in the Stars

Lake Tahoe’s night skies are crystal clear. Find a dark spot to stargaze and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of nature.

17. Drive through Donner Pass

This scenic drive is full of history, dramatic rock formations, and views of Donner Lake. Stop at viewpoints along the way.

18. Visit Donner Memorial State Park

Learn about the famous Donner Party and explore Donner Lake. A good mix of history and natural beauty.

19. Tour Thunderbird Lodge

This historic mansion on the lake’s eastern shore has fascinating architecture and tales of Tahoe’s past. Tours are available in summer.

20. Visit South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena

This indoor rink offers public ice skating in South Lake Tahoe. It’s a great way to cool off in summer or stay active in winter.

21. Do a Brewery Tour

Tahoe is home to several local breweries. Sample some unique brews and meet the friendly people behind them.

22. Swim in Secret Cove

Tucked away on the East Shore, Secret Cove is a beautiful beach with clear, blue water and a bit more privacy.

23. Explore Spooner Lake

A quiet spot for fishing, kayaking, or picnicking. The lake is also surrounded by hiking trails through aspen groves.

24. Visit the UC Davis Tahoe Science Center

Learn about Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem, science, and conservation efforts. Great for kids and curious minds!

25. Ride the Flume Trail

Known for its epic views, this mountain biking trail is challenging but rewarding. Rentals and shuttle services are available.

26. Explore Taylor Creek Visitor Center

In the fall, check out the salmon run at the Stream Profile Chamber. It’s fun, educational, and family-friendly.

27. Try the Cotton Candy Cocktail at WOLF

Located in South Lake Tahoe, WOLF by Vanderpump is a classy restaurant with good eats and delicious cocktails. Request a seat at the bar if you don’t have a reservation!

28. Dinner and Hot Cocoa at Edgewood Tahoe

Enjoy dinner and hot cocoa overlooking the lake the Edgewood Tahoe Resort. The setting and service make it memorable.

29. Go on a Horseback Ride

Take a guided horseback ride through Tahoe’s forests and meadows. Many trails offer beautiful mountain and lake views.

30. Tour the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Also called Pine Lodge, this estate offers tours and scenic lake views. The grounds are lovely for a picnic or stroll.

31. Visit Tahoe Maritime Museum

Learn about Tahoe’s boating history and see vintage wooden boats. A must for boat enthusiasts!

32. Have a Beach Picnic at Commons Beach

Located in Tahoe City, Commons Beach has picnic areas, playgrounds, and lake access. Great for a family day out.

33. Check Out the Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema

Watch a movie or catch a live show at this indie theater in Tahoe City. It has cozy seating and a laid-back vibe.

34. Hike the Rubicon Trail

This stunning lakeside hike stretches from D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay, offering incredible views of the lake.

35. Take a Yoga Class on the Beach

Many local yoga studios offer outdoor classes during summer, allowing you to practice with the lake as your backdrop.

36. Drive Through Fallen Leaf Lake Road

This scenic drive winds past picturesque Fallen Leaf Lake. There are several spots to pull over and enjoy the view.

37. Fish in Tahoe’s Rivers and Lakes

Grab a fishing license and try your luck at catching trout in the region’s lakes and streams. Our personal favorite spot is Lake Baron or Fallen Leaf Lake!

38. Visit the Meyers Paradise Park Farmers Market

Open during the summer months, this market features local produce, crafts, and baked goods. It’s a great way to taste local flavors.

39. Ski at Northstar California Resort

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent snowboarding, Northstar offers a variety of trails and terrain parks.

40. Explore Truckee’s Historic Downtown

Take a stroll through Truckee’s charming downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

41. Try Your Luck at a Casino

Head to Stateline, NV, for some gaming fun. The area has several casinos with slot machines, table games, and entertainment options.

42. Go Wine Tasting in the Sierra Foothills

Just a short drive from Tahoe, the Sierra Foothills have beautiful wineries with stunning views and delicious wines.

43. Visit the Kiva Beach

This dog-friendly beach in South Lake Tahoe is perfect for a day of sun and fun with your furry friend.

44. Take a Scenic Drive Around the Lake

The drive around Lake Tahoe offers countless viewpoints to stop and enjoy the stunning scenery. Bring your camera!

45. Check Out the Magic of Tahoe’s Snow Globe

If you’re visiting during winter, don’t miss the giant snow globe at Heavenly Village. It’s a magical holiday experience.

46. Attend the Tahoe Outdoor Choir

Enjoy beautiful music under the stars during summer concerts at local parks. It’s a relaxing way to spend an evening.

47. Experience the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

Held in the summer, this festival features live performances of Shakespeare’s plays in a stunning lakeside setting.

48. Enjoy a Campfire at a Campground

Many campgrounds around the lake allow campfires, providing the perfect setting for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.

49. Try Snowmobiling in Truckee

Join an adventure guide group and snowmobile above Truckee. It’s a exciting way to enjoy the winter landscape.

50. Explore the Stateline Lookout

A quick hike leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the lake. It’s a great spot for photos and quiet contemplation.

51. Visit the Sierra Nevada College Art Gallery

Located in Incline Village, this gallery showcases contemporary art and hosts rotating exhibitions. A great cultural stop!

52. Attend the Lake Tahoe Music Festival

Enjoy live music performances in beautiful outdoor settings during the summer months. It’s a fun way to experience local talent.

53. Go Tubing at Adventure Mountain

This winter playground is perfect for families, with tubing hills that cater to all ages and skill levels.

54. Explore Angora Lakes

A short hike leads to these hidden lakes. At Angora Lakes, you can swim, kayak, or just relax by the water—it’s a perfect spot to unwind.

55. Visit the Tahoe National Forest

Explore miles of hiking and biking trails within this expansive forest. It’s a great place for outdoor adventures year-round.

56. Go for a Scenic Helicopter Tour

Experience breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe from above. It’s an unforgettable way to see the area’s beauty.

57. Check Out the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum

Dive into the history of the area with exhibits and artifacts. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs.

58. Spend a Day at North Lake Tahoe

From beaches to hiking trails, North Lake Tahoe offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere compared to the south shore.

59. Try Stand-Up Paddle Yoga

Combine yoga and paddleboarding for a fun, challenging workout on the water. It’s a unique way to connect with nature.

60. Attend the annual Tahoe Chocolate Fest

Indulge your sweet tooth at this delightful event featuring local chocolatiers and sweet treats in various forms. This festival takes place in mid October in North Lake Tahoe.

61. Check Out the local Farmers’ Markets

Seasonal markets around Tahoe feature fresh produce and local crafts. It’s a great way to connect with the community.

62. Take a Scenic Bike Ride on the Truckee River Bike Path

This easy, family-friendly ride follows the river and offers beautiful views and plenty of spots to stop for a break.

63. Explore the Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe

Visit this world-famous ski resort (formerly called Squaw Valley), which also offers summer activities like hiking and mountain biking.

64. Try Your Hand at Axe Throwing

For some high-energy fun, head to Yosemite Axe Throwing near Stateline for an exciting day of competition with friends or family.

65. Explore the Tahoe Basin on Snowmobiles

Rent a snowmobile in winter for a thrilling way to explore Tahoe’s winter wonderland.

66. Take a Guided Eco-Tour

Learn about the local ecology and wildlife on a guided tour, perfect for nature lovers and families!

67. Visit the Rubicon Point Lighthouse

This iconic lighthouse offers picturesque views and is a perfect spot for photos and learning about local maritime history.

68. Try Geocaching

Use your smartphone to go on a treasure hunt around Tahoe. It’s a fun way to explore and discover new areas.

69. Explore the Wildflower Trails in Summer

In late spring and summer, the trails around Tahoe are filled with vibrant wildflowers, making for beautiful hikes.

70. Attend a Local Festival

Throughout the year, Tahoe hosts various festivals celebrating food, music, and culture. Here are some of our favorite fall festivals!

71. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains from the sky with a peaceful hot air balloon ride.

72. Visit the Historic Truckee Depot

This historic train depot offers insights into the area’s transportation history and is a charming stop in downtown Truckee.

Lake Tahoe never freezes, even in winter! Despite being surrounded by snow and freezing temperatures, the lake’s enormous depth—reaching up to 1,645 feet—prevents it from freezing over. The deep water circulates and keeps the lake at a stable temperature, with surface water rarely dropping below 39°F (4°C). So, while the mountains around it are blanketed in snow, Lake Tahoe remains an open, deep-blue gem year-round.

73. Try Mountain Biking at Northstar

With trails for all skill levels, Northstar is a mountain biking hotspot. Rentals and lessons are available for beginners.

74. Visit Camp Richardson

This park has walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great spot for families to enjoy the outdoors.

75. Go to the Tahoe City Pioneers Park

This family-friendly park has sports fields, playgrounds, and a beautiful setting for picnics or relaxation.

76. Hike to Mount Tallac

For those seeking a challenge, the hike to Mount Tallac offers spectacular views of Lake Tahoe from the summit.

77. Check Out the Lake Tahoe Community College

Attend local events or workshops, or simply explore the beautiful campus and its surroundings.

78. Try Paragliding

For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding over Lake Tahoe for a thrilling experience and incredible views.

79. Experience a South Lake Tahoe Escape Room

Challenge friends and family to do a local South Lake Tahoe Escape room!

80. Attend the Annual Lake Tahoe Dance Festival

Experience world-class dance performances in a beautiful outdoor setting, celebrating the art of dance.

81. Try your luck at the Sure Catch!

South Lake Tahoe has a sure-catch lake where you are guaranteed to catch a beautiful trout!

82. Take a Scenic Drive through the Sierra Nevada

Explore the scenic roads around Tahoe, which offer beautiful views of the mountains and forests.

83. Go Rafting on the Truckee River

Enjoy a fun day on the water with guided rafting trips along the Truckee River, perfect for families and adventure seekers.

84. Visit the Tahoe Rim Trail Association

Check out trail maps, events, and resources for hiking and biking the Tahoe Rim Trail.

85. Explore Kings Beach State Recreation Area

Enjoy the beach, picnic areas, and water activities at this popular spot on the north shore.

86. Take a Scenic Drive on Mount Rose Highway

This beautiful drive offers breathtaking views and access to hiking trails and picnic areas.

87. Try a Cooking Class

Learn to cook with local chefs at cooking schools around Tahoe. It’s a fun and tasty way to spend your time.

88. Go Birdwatching at Lake Tahoe

Bring your binoculars and look for local birds in the many parks and forests around the lake.

89. Visit the Tahoe Sierra Historical Society

Learn about the rich history of the Tahoe area through exhibits and local artifacts.

90. Explore the Commons Beach Summer Concerts

Enjoy live music at Commons Beach in Tahoe City during the summer. Bring a picnic and relax by the water.

91. Take a Drive on the Nevada side

The east shore of Lake Tahoe offers fewer crowds and beautiful views. Stop at scenic overlooks for photo opportunities.

92. Go Fishing at Caples Lake

Known for its trout, Caples Lake near Kirkwood is a peaceful spot for fishing, surrounded by beautiful forest scenery.

93. Visit the Tahoe Science Center

Learn about local ecology and conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and programs.

94. Check Out the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

Enjoy live performances in a stunning outdoor amphitheater at Sand Harbor during summer.

95. Visit the Tahoe Resource Conservation District

Explore their resources on local ecology and sustainability efforts in the Tahoe Basin.

96. Take a Day Trip to Virginia City

This historic mining town is just a short drive away. Explore its old buildings, shops, and fascinating history.

97. Go to a Local Play or Musical

Enjoy performances at local theaters in South Lake Tahoe or Truckee. It’s a great way to experience local talent.

98. Explore Lake Tahoe’s Hot Springs

Take a dip in one of the natural hot springs in the area for a relaxing experience after a long hike.

99. Attend a Cooking Class

Join a local chef for a cooking class focusing on local ingredients and dishes. It’s a fun way to connect with the community.

100. Enjoy Live Music at Local Bars

Many local bars and restaurants feature live music. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy Tahoe’s vibrant nightlife.

101. Go to a Local Art Show

Check out local galleries for art shows and exhibits showcasing Tahoe’s artistic community.

102. Visit a Speakeasy in Lake Tahoe

Noel’s Apothecary and Speakeasy is one of our favorite bars near Stateline!

103. Visit the scenic overlook at Cave Rock

Stop for a breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe at this iconic spot, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.