Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons
Looking to make the most of your one day in Lake Tahoe?
Whether taking a day trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco or closer, you’ve landed in the right spot. I’ve crafted an action-packed one day itinerary for Lake Tahoe, highlighting the best things I experienced during my two getaways to this crazy clear lake.
The problem is Lake Tahoe is so different in the different seasons. Luckily for you, I went once in the summer on a California road trip and once in the winter for some New Year’s snowboarding. And I’ll have two itinerary versions for each season.
Let’s make the most of your limited time with an exciting day of activities, starting with a hike at Emerald State Park, water activities in South Lake Tahoe, and the best stops on a serene drive around the lake. Below that, I’ll also give you a rundown of the best winter activities in the area.
Sample One Day in Lake Tahoe Itinerary
So you have everything in one scroll, here is a summarized version on the summer and winter Lake Tahoe itineraries. Below, I will go into more detail about each activity.
Summer Day Trip to Lake Tahoe
A day trip in Lake Tahoe is enough time to drive around the whole lake and see the main highlights. But, I recommend sticking to the south and east sides of the lake so you have time for hiking and water activities.
Morning
- Drive in from the south, as South Tahoe will be where we spend most of the day.
- If you haven’t had breakfast yet, head to the Driftwood Cafe in South Lake Tahoe for their fan-favorite pancakes.
- In Emerald Bay State Park, stop at the Emerald Bay and Vikingholm Castle.
- Go on a morning hike on the Eagle Falls Trail, a popular trail to a beautiful waterfall.
Mid-Day
- Grab a bite at Freshies Restaurant & Bar for a Hawaiian-inspired menu with fantastic lake views.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or go on a sailing trip on top of the clear lake waters.
Afternoon
- Start on the scenic drive, hugging the east Lake Tahoe coast up north.
- There are so many beaches and overlooks, but you should stop at :
- Zephyr Cove
- Cave Rock Beach
- Sand Harbor Beach
- Clothing Optional: Secret Cove Nude Beach
Recommended lodging options for the Night: South Lake Tahoe
- Luxury: Edgewood Tahoe Resort
- Mid-range: Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe
- Budget: The Coachman Hotel
Feel free to mix and match based on your interest and pace. The tour covers a lot of ground, so don’t rush.
Winter Day Trip to Lake Tahoe
Most people who come in the wintertime do so for winter activities.
- Skiing/Snowboarding: Head to Heavenly Mountain Resort or Palisades Resort (formerly Squaw Valley), or any of the 13 others.
- Alternative: Go on a guided snowshoe tour.
- Lunch: I always love warming up in the ski lodges with some fries and chicken strips.
- Ice Skating: Once the lifts close, go for an ice skating session in South Tahoe.
- Alternative: Snowtubing is also one of my favorite winter activities.
- Relax at a Spa: Treat yourself to a massage at The Landing Resort & Spa.
Quick Facts about Visiting Lake Tahoe
Did you know that Lake Tahoe is over two million years old and is considered one of the 20 oldest lakes in the world? It’s also the largest alpine lake in North America, and so deep – a whopping 1,644 feet – it could cover the Empire State Building!
Nowadays, Lake Tahoe is a playground that offers everything from thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding in the summer to adrenaline-pumping snow activities like skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
Its clear blue waters and the mountains surrounding it, combined with attractions such as Emerald Bay State Park and Heavenly Mountain Gondola, make it a popular destination for West Coastians especially.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sierra Nevada Mountains straddling the border of California and Nevada |
| Best Time to Visit | – Summer (June – August) for water-based activities – Winter (December – February) for snow sports |
| Time Zone | Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) |
| Best Way to Get Around | Car is the most convenient. There’s also a regional bus service, BlueGo and bike rentals. |
| City Airports | – Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), 58 miles to South Lake Tahoe – Sacramento International Airport (SMF), 110 miles to South Lake Tahoe |
Driving Around Lake Tahoe
Driving around Lake Tahoe is an adventure in itself! The entire loop is approximately 72 miles. It typically takes about 3 hours to complete without any stops.
But, with the views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains, you’ll want to take your sweet time. That’s why I recommend starting at one end and working your way up only one side (the east side) if you are coming for a day.
What to Do in Lake Tahoe in One Day
Lake Tahoe truly transforms with the seasons. In summer, soak up the sun on its sandy beaches and go boating. In winter, the snowy wonderland invites you to strap on your skis and carve down its world-class slopes.
Below, I’ll go into more detail about the best things to do in Lake Tahoe, divided by its season and according to the itinerary crafted above.
Summer Lake Tahoe Itinerary
Morning: Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay State Park is a must-visit in Lake Tahoe, especially in the summer. This park is home to some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes and hikes.
Start your day snapping a pic at the panoramic views of the bay from the scenic overlook on Highway 89. I’m sure your first sight of the emerald green waters of the bay will amaze you as much as it did for me.
Travel Tip! There is a parking fee, and this place gets crowded in the summer.
Vikingholm Castle
Next, descend the trail to the shore, where you’ll find the historic Scandinavian-style mansion, Vikingholm Castle. Built in 1929, this 38-room mansion is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States.
Originally built as a summer home, the castle is now a part of California’s state park system and is open to the public. You can reach the castle by a steep one-mile trail that descends about 500 feet from the parking area.
Then, you can take a castle tour or just wander around alone.
Travel Tip! The castle is open for tours from late May through the end of September.
Eagle Falls Trail
Also within the park is the popular Eagle Falls Trail. This hiking trail is a fan-favorite and one of the best in all of Lake Tahoe. The path leads you to fantastic views of high-altitude lakes and waterfalls towards Eagle Lake.
Eagle Falls Trail is a relatively easy trail that takes about 2 hours to complete, covering a distance of about 2 miles round trip. After a few minutes, you’ll already have a great view of the lower falls and another amazing one of the Upper Falls at the end. You’ll have a complete panorama of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Lake Tahoe in the distance.
Mid-Day: Lake Activities
After hiking, stop for lunch, then cool off with a refreshing swim. You can stay in Emerald State Park, South Lake Tahoe, or beyond.
Many activities can be done on or around the lake at many beaches. You can get your adrenaline flowing by renting a speedboat for the day or try out water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing.
Here are a few of the best activities:
Sailing Cruise Around Lake Tahoe
There is no better way to take in the beauty of Lake Tahoe than aboard a sailboat. Many sailing cruises depart from various ports around the lake.
Depending on your pick, you’ll get to put your feet up and relax or participate in activities such as winetasting, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and more.
This sailing cruise on Lake Tahoe is a very popular choice in the area. You’ll go out onto the water for two hours on a 40-foot sailboat.
Kayak or Paddleboarding
For those looking for a bit of activity on the water, head out in your own kayak or paddleboard. The Lake Tahoe coastline is dotted with many rental shops that offer hourly to full-day rentals. Paddle over to hidden beaches and secret coves.
Otherwise, you can take this guided kayak tour from Sand Harbor, where you’ll paddle in a completely transparent kayak.
Afternoon: East Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive
After an exciting day on the water, go for that scenic drive along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. Head out of South Lake Tahoe, taking Highway 50 towards Carson City.
Along this route, the road weaves through the mountains with numerous overlooks to stop at.
Zephyr Cove
Zephyr Cove is renowned for its beautiful beach and another place with exciting water sports. The wide sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing or a stroll by the lake.
The Zephyr Cove Stables also has horseback rides that lead you through beautiful forest trails with amazing lake views.
Cave Rock Beach
A bit further along the road, you’ll find Cave Rock Beach, a massive cavernous rock formation extending into the lake. The rock itself is a spiritual and historic site for the local Washoe tribe and has a unique geology that dates back millions of years.
Cave Rock Beach itself is small but a beautiful sandy beach. It’s also a favorite spot for fishing. The short Cave Rock trail also starts in a small parking lot on the west side of Highway 50 just before you reach the tunnel.
This moderate hike is about 0.8 miles round trip and goes to one of the most accessible top-down views of Lake Tahoe and its shorelines.
Sand Harbor State Park
If you are following this route, Sand Harbor should be the last major stop on your drive. The park has gorgeous sandy beaches, rock formations that frame the shoreline, and turquoise waters. It’s definitely somewhere I would include in any Lake Tahoe itinerary.
Another highlight of the park is the Sand Point Nature Trail, a short, half-mile trail that takes about 30 minutes to finish.
You can find any and all water activities here. In the summer, the park hosts a Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. You can catch performances in an open-air theater overlooking the lake.
From here, if you are headed back towards West California, you can pop out on the north end and keep driving west. If not, you can retrace your steps back to South Lake Tahoe.
Winter Lake Tahoe Itinerary
Winter road conditions might be icy, so going all around the lake or up steep mountain passes can be a bit scary.
All Day: Ski and Snowboard at World-Class Resorts
Lake Tahoe is renowned as a hub for winter sports, hosting an array of world-class ski and snowboard resorts. These resorts cater to all skill levels, from beginner slopes to challenging black diamond runs.
Many resorts also have other activities like snow tubing and sleigh rides.
I’m a very big snowboarder and have been since I was 8 years old. Around Lake Tahoe, I went to Palisades Resort and Heavenly, some of my favorites in the country.
Travel Tip! If you’re going many times a season, I recommend getting the Ikon or Epic Pass as this gives you access to multiple resorts in the area. Or, opt for single-day lift tickets.
Lake Tahoe is home to 15 ski resorts, which is just insane. But the best would be Heavenly, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley), and Kirkwood.
The complete list of resorts includes:
- Alpine Meadows Ski Resort: Known for its diverse terrain and scenic views.
- Boreal Mountain Resort: A family-friendly destination, Boreal is renowned for its night skiing.
- Diamond Peak Ski Resort: Breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.
- Donner Ski Ranch: One of the West’s oldest and most iconic ski areas.
- Granlibakken Resort: A historic ski and sled area in a dense forest.
- Heavenly Mountain Resort: The largest ski resort in California and Nevada.
- Homewood Mountain Resort: Unobstructed views of Lake Tahoe from every trail.
- Kirkwood Mountain Resort: Famous for its deep snow and challenging terrain.
- Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe: The closest ski resort to Reno, NV.
- Northstar California Resort: Luxury accommodations and high-end dining facilities.
- Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and innovative terrain parks.
- Soda Springs Mountain Resort: Great for families and first-timers.
- Squaw Valley Ski Resort: Hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics.
- Sugar Bowl Resort: One of the oldest ski resorts in California.
- Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area: A great place for beginner skiers and snowboarders.
Alternative Activity: Snoeshowing Lake Tahoe
If smashing your tailbone all day isn’t your thing, or you’re just looking for a change of pace, snowshoeing is another fun winter thing to do around Lake Tahoe.
Hands down, one of the best places to snowshoe is around the frozen Echo Lakes. Mount Tallac Trail is an excellent choice as a more challenging option that will take you to the top of Mount Tallac, the highest peak in the area.
If you have no experience (but are looking to), take this guided snowshoeing tour, which will provide equipment and lessons.
Ice Skating Lake Tahoe
On the list of delightful winter activities around Lake Tahoe, you can’t miss ice skating. I used to compete back in the day, so I always love showing off to my friends who have no clue about my past axel attempts (which, by the way, I never quite nailed).
Around the lake, several outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks cater to skaters of all levels and provide skate rentals.
Spas Around Tahoe
Rest those burnt-out thighs with a rejuvenating spa treatment. I love going for massages and a sauna after being cold all day, and Lake Tahoe has lots of top-quality spas and services.
Here are a few:
- Spa at Squaw Creek
- Stillwater Spa and Salon
- The Landing Resort and Spa
- Elements Spa
Places to Visit with More Time
Other Places around Lake Tahoe
- Taylor Creek Visitor Center: A popular spot for nature walks and bird watching.
- Truckee River: Go rafting, kayaking, and fishing.
- Tahoe Rim Trail: A 165-mile trail that circles Lake Tahoe.
- Kings Beach State Recreation Area: A popular place to swim and do watersports.
- Tahoe City: A quaint town on the lake’s shore.
- Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park: A vast park with hiking trails and lake overlooks.
- Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park: A state park with miles of hiking trails, a historic mansion, and a beautiful beach.
Day Trips from Lake Tahoe
- Sacramento, California: The state’s capital has many attractions, including the historic Old Sacramento Waterfront, the California State Railroad Museum, and the State Capitol Museum.
- Reno, Nevada: Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World”, Reno has a great arts scene and is home to the National Automobile Museum.
- Sierra Hot Springs: Drive down Highway 395 for crazy cool hot springs like Travertine and Wild Willy’s.
- Virginia City, Nevada: A historic mining town to explore old saloons, visit the Virginia and Truckee Railroad, and try your luck panning for gold.
- Yosemite National Park: Although it’s a longer drive, the beauty of Yosemite’s waterfalls, valleys, meadows, and giant sequoias is well worth the trip.
- Napa Valley, California: World-renowned for its vineyards and wineries, go wine tasting and fine dining.
- Monterey, California: Famous for its beautiful coastlines, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and historic Cannery Row.
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
I stayed in south Lake Tahoe because of how close it is to numerous ski resorts, beaches, and nightlife. I think this is the best place with the most amount of options. So that’s why below I’ve given a few top options based on different budgets.
In the north, Tahoe Vista is more laid-back and is close to several parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Northstar California Resort area is where the luxury experience is at.
Best Hotels in South Lake Tahoe
| Name of Hotel | Budget | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Edgewood Tahoe Resort | Luxury | – Lakefront rooms views – Decor that makes you feel like royalty – On-site restaurant serving gourmet meals |
| Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe | Mid-range | – Fully equipped kitchens in every room – Heated pool and a fitness center |
| The Coachman Hotel | Budget | – Modern rustic decor with comfortable rooms at an affordable rate – Hot tub with a seasonal outdoor pool – Outdoor communal fire pit for socializing on cool Tahoe nights |
Is 1 Day Enough for Lake Tahoe
More than one day is needed for Lake Tahoe, especially because you are likely driving in from a few hours away. The region is brimming with activities and attractions in all seasons, and many people vacation here for a week or even more.
A day can be enough if you want to do a highlights tour or go skiing or snowboarding at one of the acclaimed resorts. But with more days, I recommend driving the entire Lake Tahoe Look, going on more hikes, or checking out other activities.
Best Time To Visit
Lake Tahoe really is a year-round destination, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
In summer (June-August), the weather is sunny and great for hiking, water sports, and beach days. However, this is the peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
In winter (December-February), Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland with plenty of snow for skiing and other snow activities. This is also a popular time to visit, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. It also gets crazy expensive.
How to Get There
Lake Tahoe is situated near several major cities. If you’re flying, the nearest significant airports are Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) in Nevada, approximately an hour away, and Sacramento International Airport (SMF) in California, about two hours away.
Many people go on a day trip to Lake Tahoe from San Francisco or Sacramento through beautiful landscapes.
I don’t recommend public transportation, but several shuttle services operate from the airports to the Lake Tahoe region. Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) provides service throughout North Lake Tahoe, and Tahoe Transportation District (TTD) covers the south.
Final Thoughts: One Day in Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re coming in the summer or winter, come prepared to enjoy the great outdoors. Since I’ve been in both seasons, I can’t even make a final judgement into which I liked better since it was so different. The focus was so much more on the lake in summer, while in winter, it was on the mountain.
And if you have time constraints at Lake Tahoe because you’re seeing other destinations in California, continue to our next article.
Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?
I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.
- Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
- Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
- Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
- One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
- Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
- Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers
- Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons
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