Planning a day at Lake Tahoe? There’s plenty of fun to be had on and off the water. Here’s a quick list of things to do at Lake Tahoe:
Take a scenic drive around the lake and go sightseeing
As you cruise around the lake, make a stop in D.L. Bliss State Park, home to the highest elevation lighthouse in America and some of the most scenic views in Tahoe. Up next is Emerald Bay State Park which you’ve seen in countless photos. Being the most popular attraction in Lake Tahoe, it’s best to visit early in the morning (as in sunrise), or better yet, skip the bustle by seeing it from a cruise via the Tahoe Gal. Then it’s off to the East Side where you’ll feast your eyes on a legendary sunset from Cave Rock. From its vantage point, you get a 270 degree view of the shimmering waters of the largest alpine lake in North America.
Rent a boat!
Even if you own your own boat, we recommend renting one to head out on the waters. To keep Lake Tahoe’s water as crystal clear as it is, ALL boats need to be inspected before they’re allowed to enter. Convenient rentals are available at the lake for stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, powerboats, jet skis, and more.
Bike or walk the Tahoe East Shore Trail
Sand Harbor State Park and its cove beach are the most popular in Lake Tahoe and rightly so. Its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and incredible views of the surrounding mountains are stunning. Be aware… the Sand Harbor parking lot fills up fast in the summer. Either come early (before AT LEAST 8 a.m.) or better yet park in Incline Village and take the Tahoe East Shore Trail. Opened in June 2019, this three mile 10-foot-wide paved trail starts in Incline Village and connects to the legendary Sand Harbor. As you pedal or stroll alongside the cobalt blue waters of Tahoe, you’ll understand why this has been called “America’s Most Beautiful Path.”
View a trail map and What to Know Before You Go.
See Lake Tahoe from the sky - go parasailing!
As you’re unhooked from a powerful boat, you’ll float up to more than 500 feet above the tranquil waters and almost forget you’re being pulled around. Enjoy the leisurely sway as you look down at treetops, buildings, and the spectacular landscape. North Lake Tahoe operators include North Tahoe Watersports, Inc. and California Parasail.
Mountain Bike the Flume Trail for birds eye Tahoe views
Carved into the rock to carry the original water flume hence the name, this is Lake Tahoe’s most legendary bike trail. Not because of the difficulty but the striking one-of-a-kind views it provides. To access this one way moderately difficult trail, you will need to set up a shuttle. Here’s a 1st person account of what to expect on the Tahoe Flume Trail.
View trail map.
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