11 of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe

15.04.2024 - 10:11 / lonelyplanet.com / Lake Tahoe

The shimmering beauty of Lake Tahoe makes travelers stop and stare.

But to fully appreciate this alpine beauty spot, you need to get active. From water sports to winter sports, we’ve hand-picked the best things to do in and around Lake Tahoe. And for days when you don’t want to break a sweat, there are cruises, history and culture galore.

What better way to experience North America’s largest freshwater lake than by bobbing along its glassy surface? Whether you prefer to SUP or kayak, the Lake Tahoe Water Trail has 72 miles of marked and mapped water routes to explore, including 20 “trailhead” signs for put-in and take-out. You can plot out a day trip from numerous starting points including Emerald Bay and Cave Rock. Sunscreen essential, serenity guaranteed.

Planning tip: Kayak Tahoe can set you up gear at locations in Pope Beach, Nevada Beach, Emerald Bay and Baldwin Beach.

Though there are four paved bike trails that run parallel to the lake’s shores, Tahoe East Shore Trail is a favorite because it’s an all-in-one Tahoe summer day of bike-riding and beach-hopping easily orchestrated on a budget. There is plenty of parking and the Tunnel Creek Cafe and Flume Trail Bike rentals are conveniently located at the trailhead so you can get gear and protein-packed breakfasts to start you off. The trailhead is located near Incline Village on State Route 28.

The 3-mile trail begins with an 8% incline (and decline), but after that, it gently undulates over rocky coves and past 16 viewpoints with interpretive signs. The southern terminus is Sand Harbor State Park, Nevada’s most popular.

Planning tip: There is a $2 fee per bike to access the lake from Sand Harbor, but there’s no need to pay if you find one of a handful of free lake access footpaths along the way.

With venues as varied as breweries, beaches and casinos, Tahoe attracts world-class as well as home-grown entertainment. Thespians and literary buffs will be hard-pressed to find a finer setting for theater than the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor. This summer festival draws crowds of over 33,000 each year to enjoy the lakeside atmosphere with performances taking place under the stars. Costumed revelry continues in late August at the Valhalla Renaissance Faire, which brings jousting and live music to the Tahoe Valley Campground. Winter brings Snowfest, complete with live music, a parade, competitions and ice sculptures in late February or early March. 

Planning tip: If you’re visiting in late spring, keep an eye on ski resort websites for end-of-season hi-jinks. One of the best is the annual pond skimming contest at Palisades, where costumed skiers attempt to launch themselves across a pool.

A gondola ride with Heavenly ski resort isn’t cheap (adult