With its mountainous backdrop and cobalt-blue water, Lake Tahoe is a striking sight. It’s situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which makes it a magnet for winter-sports enthusiasts. When the snow melts, the crowds keep coming for summer activities. Choose between skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and much more. Vacationers will also enjoy fishing, fine dining, spa time or visiting a casino.
Lake Tahoe has 72 miles (116 kilometers) of shoreline. It straddles the border of California (west) and Nevada (east) and is the second deepest lake in the United States. The sun shines most of the year and the snowfall averages 600 inches (15 meters) per year.
Shuttle buses from Reno-Tahoe International Airport will bring you to all sides of the lake. The wider area is best explored by car, while the water shuttle is great for hopping between docks along the shores in summer.
Sprawling forest reserves, such as Emerald Bay State Park, cover the Californian side of the lake. Tahoe City and Kings Beach offer good lake-side attractions. Nearby ski resorts are Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and Homewood Mountain. The Bavarian-style Sugar Bowl Resort is located near Truckee. Heavenly Mountain Resort in South Lake Tahoe spreads from California to Nevada and beats all the other resorts in size and attractions.
The Nevada side of the lake has casinos and more resorts and beaches. In summer, swim at Sand Harbor or Zephyr Cove Beach.
Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for its easy access, amazing scenery and year-round activities. Arrive early in the day and ride the slopes or kayak on the lake. By afternoon, try horseback riding or simply relax and read a book by the shore. In the evening, dine in one of the restaurants overlooking one of America’s most beautiful lakes.
Tahoe City, CA
Tahoe City Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Tahoe City
Tahoe Sierra Estates
While visiting Tahoe Sierra Estates, you might make a stop by sights like North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum and Truckee River.
Lake Forest
While visiting Lake Forest, you might make a stop by sights like Skylandia Park and Tahoe City Field Station.
Tahoe Tavern
While there might not be top attractions in Tahoe Tavern, you can explore the larger area and discover places like North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park.
Talmont
When in Talmont, you can plan a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Pineland
When in Pineland, you can plan a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks might not have many top sights, but Lakeview Ski Lift and Lakeview Chair are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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Popular places to visit
North Lake Tahoe Visitors and Convention Bureau
Learn about the events happening at North Lake Tahoe Visitors and Convention Bureau during your trip to Tahoe City. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.
Granlibakken Resort Ski Area
Hit the slopes in Tahoe City with a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park
Enjoy a trip to Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park and popular activities like skiing in Tahoe City. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.
North Tahoe Regional Park
Catch an event at North Tahoe Regional Park, and enjoy other activities in Tahoe City such as skiing. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the hiking trails.
North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at North Lake Tahoe Historical Society and Gatekeepers Museum in Tahoe City. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the ski slopes.
Tahoe City Marina
Explore the waterfront of Tahoe City Marina and enjoy activities such as skiing in Tahoe City. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the hiking trails.
