Visitors have been coming to Lake Tahoe in search of the ultimate outdoor getaway for years, drawn in by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, brilliant turquoise water that stretches out for miles, towering pines, and the very best nature has to offer. Welcoming more than 15 million travelers a year, if this is your first time visiting, get ready to be completely ruined for any other destination.
Perched high above the peaks at 6,225 feet of elevation, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. At its deepest point, it could completely submerge the Empire State Building! Bested only by the Great Lakes in terms of volume, it offers miles of shoreline and endless opportunities to craft an unforgettable vacation—regardless of what that means for you.
Here, you’ll find some of the best skiing in the country, epic watersports, charming towns and communities, each with its own spirit, and endless ways to immerse yourself in our corner of the world. As you plan your upcoming visit, we hope you find this intro to the area helpful. Below, we’ll tell you about our favorite shores, top things to do, seasonal activities, and much more. You can also visit our blog Essential Tips For Your First Tahoe Adventure.
Not Your Average Lake
Just shy of Oregon's Crater Lake, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the US. Formed roughly two million years ago, it's one of the great natural wonders of our country. When you visit, expect endless days of sunshine and fun on the water, exceptional hiking and nature trails, beach hangs that end under starry skies, and whatever else you can dream up! Made for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors, it's an unbeatable destination you won't want to leave.
North Shore
Lake Tahoe’s water can rival even the most tropical islands when it comes to clarity. Here, you can see straight down to the giant boulders beneath the surface. On the North Shore, you’ll find meditative moments, calm water perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking, sandy shorelines for relaxing with a journal or good book, easy hikes, and wonderful local restaurants and shops in Tahoe City, Incline Village, and other communities.
Top Spots include:
- Kings Beach – Largest public access beach in North Tahoe. Features a playground, BBQ grills, and tons for families and little ones to do
- Sand Harbor Beach – Calm pools surrounded by boulders, great for photos on less windy days when the water is like glass
- Flume Trail - World-renowned for hiking and mountain biking, this singletrack trail is carved into the mountainside overlooking the lake near Incline Village
- Hidden Beach - Just south of Incline Village, this dog-friendly beach offers 750 feet of shoreline, great for boating and fishing
West Shore
The West Shore feels slightly more residential, with a classic Tahoe atmosphere rooted in history and nature. Stretching from Tahoe City down toward Meeks Bay, this area is known for its tall pines, quieter stretches of shoreline, and easy access to state parks and meandering trails. For guests who want a peaceful retreat close to nature, with the charm of smaller local businesses and a slower day-to-day, this is an ideal home base for your trip.
Top Spots Include:
- Eagle Rock Trail – 1.5 miles round-trip, easy hike that rewards with epic sunset views over the water
- D.L. Bliss State Park – 6 miles of waterfront beach access and connection to the popular Rubicon Trail
- Tahoe Rim Trail – Singletrack mountain bike path through wildflower fields
- Homewood Mountain – 67 runs and 1,650 feet of vertical drop, so no matter your skill level, you can enjoy the powder
Wildlife in Lake Tahoe
Keep Your Eyes Peeled for:
- Black Bears: Common within the Tahoe Basin, often spotted near forest edges or up in the trees. A healthy bear will avoid humans—if it doesn’t, unsecured food is usually the reason.
- Mule Deer: Frequently seen in meadows and wooded neighborhoods at dawn and dusk, especially spring through fall.
- Coyotes: Active year-round, often near trails and open areas. They help keep rodent populations in balance.
- Birdlife: Steller’s jays, chickadees, woodpeckers, osprey, and bald eagles are regular sightings. Bring binoculars—there’s a lot to spot in the trees and along the shoreline.
- Smaller Wildlife: Chipmunks, squirrels, raccoons, and the occasional fox. If hiking in higher elevations, you may hear marmots whistling from the rocks.
Observe Responsibly & Stay Safe
Follow these simple practices:
- Keep Your Distance: Enjoy wildlife from afar—never approach for photos or try to interact.
- Store Food Properly: Use bear boxes or airtight containers. Never leave food, coolers, or scented items in your car or outside overnight.
- No Feeding Wildlife: Even small snacks can alter natural behavior and create long-term problems for animals and humans.
- Leash Pets on Trails: Helps avoid encounters with wildlife and protects sensitive habitat.
- Stay Alert on Roads: Slow down, especially at night. If a bear crosses, wait—cubs often follow behind.
- Leave No Trace: Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you bring in, and avoid disturbing natural habitats so wildlife stays wild.
Spring & Summer
Warmer weather means plenty of time spent outdoors. This time of year, the lake and trail activities hit their stride.
- On the Water: Boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing are at their best. Early mornings offer the calmest surface for SUP and kayaking.
- Trails & Bike Rides: Mountain biking is huge this time of year, with the Flume Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail drawing riders from around the country. Scenic paved paths like the West Shore Bike Path and Truckee River Legacy Trail are great for families.
- Summer Events: Nearby mountain towns like Truckee come alive with weekly farmer’s markets, live music events like Truckee Thursdays, boutique shopping, local breweries, and museums that highlight the region’s history.
- Sunset & Shoreline Time: Longer days mean slow, late sunsets, perfect for beach picnics, lakeside restaurant patios, or golden-hour views from shoreline trails and lookouts.
Fall & Winter
Fall brings cooler days and fewer crowds, making it a favorite for relaxed exploring. In winter, ski season and winter sports take center stage.
- Fall Trails: Crisp mornings make fall a great time to explore trails like Paige Meadows or the Mt. Judah Loop, where panoramic views and gorgeous foliage follow you every step.
- Can’t-Miss Sights: Don’t miss the Kokanee Salmon Run at Taylor Creek, and plan a scenic drive along Hwy 89 between Tahoe City and Emerald Bay for standout shoreline views and golden aspen leaves.
- Winter on the Slopes: Once the snow arrives, it's all about the skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Northstar, Palisades, and Diamond Peak. Lessons and plenty of slopes for all skill levels means everyone can find their stride.
- Beyond Skiing: Tubing, snowshoeing, cross-country trails, ice skating, and cozy après spots round out winter days when you’re not on the mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Tahoe
How cold is the water in Lake Tahoe?
The water temperature in Lake Tahoe can range from as warm as 70°F in August to as cold as 39°F in January. Seasonally, it breaks down like this:
*High to Low averages
- Spring: 49.1°F to 42.7°F
- Summer: 65.0°F to 58.0°F
- Fall: 57.7°F to 51.3°F
- Winter: 43.3°F to 39.8°F
When does ski season begin in Lake Tahoe?
Ski season in Lake Tahoe typically kicks off around Thanksgiving and runs through mid-April. Look for fun opening day parties at places like Diamond Head and other popular resorts.
What is the difference between the North Shore and South Shore Lake Tahoe?
The North Shore offers a more relaxed, outdoors-driven experience with scenic beaches, local shops, and smaller lake towns. South Shore is busier and more entertainment-focused, with larger resorts, casinos, and nightlife.
How clean is the water in Lake Tahoe?
With water as clear as Tahoe's, it should come as no surprise that the purity hovers around 99.7%—roughly the same as distilled drinking water!
Why Your Next Stay Should be with Tahoe Rental Company
Planning a Tahoe getaway starts with choosing the right home base, because where you stay can shape your entire experience. When you book directly with Tahoe Rental Company, you get the best selection of North and West Shore homes, along with options in Northstar and nearby communities. Choose from lakefront, pet-friendly, and lake view homes, as well as properties with hot tubs, and even luxury rentals for family getaways, weddings, or other special occasions. Our local team is here and ready to help you plan an unforgettable stay. Don't take our word for it though—see what other guests have said about our homes!
Really enjoyed our stay - we were a group of 8 adults and an infant. Everyone loved the property and was a great location for skiing & sightseeing. - Novedita
We came up to Tahoe for a wedding and had a wonderful stay at Cedar Retreat in Tahoe City. The house was lovely and very comfortable for our family. We were close enough to walk to coffee. We loved the location and the quietness of the neighborhood. We would definitely stay there again. - Michelle S.
We had a wonderful stay! The location is convenient, making it easy to explore the area. The highlight was the beautiful lake view, which made morning and evening so peaceful and relaxing. The host was also very helpful and responsive! - Elly