Best Things To Do In Lake Tahoe In Summer
Lake Tahoe summer
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20 Great Things To See and Do In Lake Tahoe In Summer
Whether you're a local looking for fun things to do, or a tourist visiting Lake Tahoe, summer is the perfect season for outdoor activities in the area. Sure, it’s well-known for its ski resorts, but Tahoe really comes alive in summer. From hiking trails and beaches to water sports and spa treatments, there are so many Tahoe summer activities that you could easily spend a few weeks relaxing at your favorite beach spot or exploring the hidden gems around this picturesque lake. So, get ready for a fantastic Lake Tahoe travel guide.
Go camping with your dog
1. Camping At Lake Tahoe
Camping is a great way to experience Lake Tahoe because you can save money, be closer to nature, and meet people from around the world. And it’s the perfect Lake Tahoe summer activity.
In the summertime, camping is popular at Lake Tahoe as there are a few free campsites where you can pitch your tent and enjoy some woodsy solitude. If you would prefer not to spend your vacation in a tent, there are also some campgrounds that offer cabins or yurts for rent.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that there are rules about how long you can stay at these campsites based on whether they're designated as an “overnight” site or not. If you plan on staying longer than overnight make sure to check with park staff about what type of permit is required. Reservations aren’t always necessary but will help guarantee availability during peak times such as holidays or weekends during tourist season (June-September).
Some of the waterside campsites include:
DL Bliss State Park has campgrounds that open for the season and revert to a day-use area outside of those times.
Meeks Bay Campground is wedged between two of the popular state parks in the Lake Tahoe area and is very popular for campers and RV's alike. With direct access to the beach this campsite fills quickly so be sure to book well in advance.
A little further away from the lake, Wylder Hope Valley has everything from campsites to bungalows and cabins and is about a 25-minute drive from the water’s edge. There are great hiking trails close by, a cafe on site, and even a sauna.
Alternatively, try the HipCamp website for private camp and caravan sites.
A lot of the campsites in this area are dog friendly too.
Accessibility: If you’re looking for wheelchair-accessible campsites, check out the following campgrounds - Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF, Camp Markley, Cabin On Lake Tahoe, and Coachland RV Resort.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding On west shore Lake Tahoe
2. Stand Up Paddle Boarding At Lake Tahoe
Stand-up paddle boarding is an exhilarating and fun way to get out on the lake. It’s also a great option for those who want to stay active but don’t feel like getting wet. As long as you have the right gear, it’s easy to learn how to stand up paddle board at Lake Tahoe.
You should know that there are two basic types of stand-up paddle boards: hard shell and inflatable (or soft). Both types of paddle board work well for beginners.
The Waterfront Center hires paddle boards from Memorial Day through Labor Day from $31/h + tax.
North Tahoe Paddle has half-day SUP rentals from
Hourly – $30
2 Hours – $50
Half Day – $70 and
Full-day rentals – $100
They also offer multi-day rentals. Give them a call for those rates.
Accessibility: Achieve Tahoe offers adaptive programs for several water sports including paddle boarding. Unfortunately, these activities are only available on select dates throughout the summer. Check the Achieve Tahoe website for dates and details.
Boating on Lake Tahoe
3. Hire A Boat on Lake Tahoe for The Day (Or Just A Few Hours)
If you are visiting Lake Tahoe, there are many things to do. One of the best activities is renting a boat and taking it out on the lake. There are many different types of boats available for rent at Lake Tahoe, including powerboats, sailboats, and pontoon boats.
Tahoe Sports has Power Boat rentals from $184 per hour and $368 for 2 hours. If you plan your day well and are ready to go you can see a lot of the lake in 2 hours. You will need to reserve for anything of 4 hours and above. Their shorter rental times are on a first in first-in-first-served basis.
Check out their Powerboats page for up-to-date pricing. You can also hire water toys as well.
Boatsetter is a great place to find a captained boat for a few hours or a day on the lake. Check out their website for more options.
Rent A Boat Tahoe has an online booking system and a range of boats to suit every budget. For an extra hourly fee you can add a captain to drive the boat so you are free to relax.
Accessibility: Double-decker wheelchair-accessible pontoon boats are available for rent from Tahoe City, CA.
Spending a day on Lake Tahoe
4. Take Yourself On A Day Hike Around Lake Tahoe
Don’t forget to get out and explore on foot. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone. Consider these day hikes in and around the lake. If you have AllTrails they have maps of all these hikes.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Take a 3-mile hike up to the top of Heavenly Mountain Resort where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake, Reno, and Carson City.
Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake Loop. This easy 4-mile round-trip hike along Eagle Creek takes you over the bridge to Eagle Falls. You can turn around here or continue on to Eagle Lake which is well worth the effort. If you have time, hike down to the lower falls which are across the road from the trailhead. You get a great view of the lower falls (which are very gentle) with Emerald Bay in the background. Stay away from the edge though.
Fallen Leaf Lake Trail. Hike through forests, meadows, and creeks as you make your way around this beautiful lake in Desolation Wilderness near South Lake Tahoe. This particular trail is 3.5 miles with very little elevation. If you are feeling energetic you can complete the Fallen Leaf Mount Tallac loop. At 15 miles (25km) with 4200 feet (1320m) of elevation change it’s a tough hike. Make sure you have experience and are well prepared.
Vikingsholm Trail. At only 1.6 miles (2.8km) return this easy walk from the stone observation point above Emerald Bay down to Vikingsholm Castle, is doable by most able-bodied people. There is almost 400 foot (115 meters) of elevation gain on the way back up but it is a solid path and you can take your time.
Spooner Lake Trail. On the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, this trail is a beautiful walk around Lake Spooner. While most of the walk is flat, the entrance is a little steeper. There is only 130 feet (40 meters) of elevation change over the entire 2.4 mile (4 km) trail.
Some of the hikes in the Lake Tahoe area are on well-compacted tracks and some are a little more adventurous. Make sure you don't do something too far outside your comfort level.
Accessibility: There are six wheelchair-accessible Lake Tahoe Trails. The Pinedrop Trail, the Pope-Baldwin Bike Path, the Ski Run Bike Path, The Tahoe Trailways Bikepath, The Truckee River Legacy Trail, and the Taylor Creek Visitor Center all offer accessible ways for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility to enjoy hiking. Some of these trails are paved and all offer an easy grade for those with mobility issues.
Go hiking around Lake Tahoe
5. Hike The Tahoe Rim Trail
Hiking trails around Lake Tahoe are a great way to get closer to nature. If you have the time, the Tahoe Rim Trail is one of the most beautiful scenic trails in North America, and it's right here! You can hike it in sections or all at once.
The trail runs in a loop around the lake meaning you can join it at a point that is suitable to you. At 175 miles it's a tough trail and will take you between (on average) 14-20 days to complete.
There are many places to resupply along the trail, but you should consider this a serious commitment. Snow can remain on some of the higher points well into the summer and you will have to carry a bear canister for your food.
Check out the Tahoe Rim Trail's website for more info and how to prepare for this stunning hike.
Accessibility: The Tahoe Rim Trail is NOT wheelchair-accessible.
Head up to Heavenly Mountain on their Gondola
6. Ride the Heavenly Mountain Gondola
Take the gondola to the top of Heavenly Mountain. This 2.4-mile scenic ride is a great way to get the best view out over Lake Tahoe. Use your Gondola ticket to jump on the chairlift to access many hiking trails at the top.
At $63 for adults & $32 for children (5-12), it’s not the cheapest thing you will do in Lake Tahoe in the summer, but it is one of the best.
Check prices on their website.
Accessibility: The Heavenly Mountain gondolas are wheelchair-accessible.
Kayaking on Lake Tahoe
7. Go Kayaking on Lake Tahoe
Kayaking on Lake Tahoe is a great way to enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. It’s also the perfect summer activity. You can rent kayaks at many locations around Lake Tahoe. Some locations offer guided tours and even classes, so be sure to ask if you're new to kayaking before renting one.
If you'd like some peaceful time with nature, head out early in the morning or later in the evening when there are fewer people and boats around.
There are many places that hire out Kayaks so you won't have any trouble finding one.
Accessibility: Achieve Tahoe offers adaptive programs for several water sports including kayaking. Unfortunately, these activities are only available on select dates throughout the summer. Check the Achieve Tahoe website for dates and details.
Tahoe Multisport also rents clear kayaks with seating that may be suitable for most wheelchair users. However, kayaking is not recommended for travelers with serious back issues or heart conditions.
Vikingsholm Castle
8. Visit Lake Tahoe's Vikingsholm Castle
Vikingsholm Castle is a historic landmark located on the shores of Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe. The castle was built by Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight in 1929 as a summer home.
Modeled after homes she had seen on her travels to Scandinavia with its steeply gabled roof and medieval-style turrets, it is worth visiting. It's open to the public for tours during the summer months, with guided tours available. There is a visitors center next to the main home where you can add your name to the next tour list and pay for your tickets.
Be sure to check out the interior before you leave as it is quite grand. Check out the kitchen in particular to see some very retro appliances.
Accessibility: Vikingsholm is accessible for people who need a ride to the Lake Tahoe shoreline castle.
Reservations to access Vikingsholm by vehicle must be booked at least 24 hours in advance by calling (530) 525.9529.
One person in each group must have an ADA placard with them and give the placard number when making the reservation. Only one vehicle is allowed per ADA placard.
Meet at the D.L. Bliss visitors’ center between 12:30 pm to 12:45 pm, purchase a $10 parking permit, and then a docent will lead in your vehicle. Return up the hill at 3 pm.
Tahoe Dam
9. Gatekeepers Museum And Tahoe Dam
The Gatekeepers Museum and Tahoe Dam are both located in Tahoe City. The Gatekeepers Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Lake Tahoe. There are many different things including old boats and photos from the early days of Lake Tahoe.
You can also see how people used to live back then and how tough their lives would have been.
It's also free! They often have some stunning examples of native american crafts including hand-woven rugs and baskets.
Gatekeepers Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 11 am to 4 pm
Tahoe Dam is another place in Lake Tahoe that you should go check out! Built by workers between 1909 and 1913 the dam controls the release of water into the main lake. Originally it was built to divert water for use in San Francisco, but that never went ahead. It is situated right in the center of Tahoe City and is free to walk over.
Accessibility: The museum has a ramp, and most exhibits are wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking are available.
Chambers Beach Landing
10. Relax At One Of Lake Tahoe's Beaches
You can relax at one of the many beaches around Lake Tahoe. Some are free, while others charge a small fee. Check with your hotel to see if they provide a beach shuttle service; otherwise, you can drive to nearby beaches.
Try Lester Beach, Secret Cove, or combine a visit to Vikingholm Castle with some time at the beach right on Emerald Bay.
One of my favorites is Chambers Landing which is a small public beach between Tahoma and Tahoe City. There is also a great restaurant and deck nearby for those afternoon cocktails. Parking is limited.
Remember these are lake beaches, not ocean beaches like in Sydney so you are quite safe to swim without having to worry about swell or rips. Take the usual precautions, however.
Beachgoers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for shade from the sun's glare. You might also want to bring some snacks to hold you over until lunchtime, as well as towels and water bottles for afternoons spent lounging on the sand. Don't forget your camera!
Accessibility: A top pick for accessible Tahoe beaches is Nevada Beach. The beach is a long, wide sandy beach with several accessible picnic tables on a paved sidewalk. The beach is five miles north of the City of South Lake Tahoe. Take Highway 50 north from the Stateline area, then turn left onto Elks Point Road. The entrance is one mile from the intersection.
Zephyr Cove Beach is also an excellent pick. Zephyr Cove Beach provides accessible paved parking and restrooms. Be advised, there is a small parking fee.
William Kent Beach is also wheelchair-accessible. It offers lakeside picnicking and beautiful views of Lake Tahoe. Access is provided via either hard dirt trails or a paved bike trail, and there are accessible restrooms.
Finally, Sand Harbour State Park also offers excellent accessibility. The Sand Point Nature Trail (one-third mile long) is a boardwalk with interpretive signs and breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Facilities at this Nevada State Park include sandy beaches, a boat launch, picnicking and group use facilities as well as a visitor center. The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival takes place here during July and August with accessible seating and assisted listening devices for the hearing impaired. Sand Harbor is located three miles south of Incline Village on Highway 28. There is a parking fee.
Truckee River Rafting
11. Go Truckee River Rafting
If you’re looking for some action water sports, the Truckee River is a great place to go rafting. It’s a relatively short trip that takes about 2-3 hours, but it can be an exciting adventure for all ages!
They have a shuttle that takes you up the river and drops you off with your raft. Then you simply paddle back at your leisure. There's no time limit and their rafts can take up to 8 people.
Before you go, make sure you pack:
A light jacket (it gets chilly in the morning)
Plenty of sunscreen (you’ll be outside for most of the day)
Snacks and water so you can pull over and stop whenever you like.
Check out more info at Truckee River Rafting.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, adaptive rafting is not available, but there is wheelchair accessibility to Wingfield Park via footbridges, paved walkways, and a ramp that goes to the water so that people with disabilities can get into the river.
Driving around Lake Tahoe
12. Do A Scenic Drive Around The Perimeter Of Lake Tahoe
If you have a spare day, consider doing a Scenic drive around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe.
There are many scenic drives around Lake Tahoe, and one of the most famous is along the shoreline. It's called Lake Tahoe Boulevard. If you're in a car or on a bike, it's a beautiful way to enjoy some fresh air while taking in some awesome views.
This road runs along both the Nevada and California side of the lake and to do a full circumference you will drive around 65 miles (105km). There are many places to stop, have a swim, or grab some food or drinks so you can easily make this drive last the full day.
If you would like a shorter drive, consider the South Tahoe to Tahoe City drive. This 30-mile route is one of the most scenic drives around Lake Tahoe because it takes you up close to Emerald Bay, which has great views of mountains on both sides (and also includes hiking trails).
This Self-driving audio tour is a great option for info and notes on where to stop and what to see. At only $10 it's well worth it. It will take you from South Lake Tahoe all the way around the lake with over 20 points of interest, tips on where to stop & interesting info on the locations around the lake.
You simply purchase the tour (there is no physical tour remember) and get the link to the app. Download the app and get ready for your self-driving adventure.
Boats at Tahoe Keys Marina
13. Explore Tahoe City
You might have heard of the quaint community of Tahoe City, California. The area is a great place to visit and has many great restaurants, bars with live music, and shops. If you are looking for a place to stay while in Lake Tahoe and would like to be within walking distance of restaurants and bars, then Tahoe City is your best bet.
You don’t have to go far from your hotel room for amazing food and drink options: The River Grille is a popular spot overlooking the Truckee River. They have a great menu and are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 pm.
Front Street Pizza offers hand-tossed New York-style pizza that I can personally vouch for. I am very fussy with Pizza and this remains one of my favorite pizza places in the world! They also have other items like Burritos and fish tacos so if Pizza isn't your thing you should still be able to find something to eat.
Tahoe City is also home to Commons Beach, a popular family destination, and more than a few small shopping areas, banks, a marina, and of course some beauty and hair salons.
Trail riding around Lake Tahoe
14. Horseback Riding At Lake Tahoe
Horseback riding is a great way to see the lake and get some exercise. Horseback riding is also a great way to get around Lake Tahoe because it's so big that you can't cover it all on foot. There are several stables throughout the area where you can rent horses for an hour or more at a time, or you can go on longer guided tours.
Try Camp Richardson Corral, Zephyr Cove Stables, or Alpine Meadows Stables
Accessibility: Achieve Tahoe offers adaptive equestrian programs for those with disabilities. Check out their website for more details.
Take a cruise on the Tahoe Gal
15. Do A Cruise On The Tahoe Gal
Taking 120 passengers, the Tahoe Gal a paddle-wheeler, offers a few options for cruising on Lake Tahoe. From a Happy hour cruise, to the very popular Emerald Bay cruise there is something for everyone. While 120 people does sound like a lot I never felt like it was too busy and there is ample room for everyone to see everything that is going on around the lake.
The dinner cruise is another popular option and $65 for a 2.5-hour sunset cruise I felt was very affordable. You can order dinner as well however be aware that an 18% gratuity is added to all dinner bills.
Visit their website for current prices.
Accessibility: There is wheelchair access to the main deck. The Tahoe Gal berths at Tahoe City's Lighthouse Center under an exclusive and secure lease with California State Lands and has private dedicated accessible parking.
Try your hand at the slots
16. Try Your Luck At A Casino
You can visit the casinos on either side of Lake Tahoe.
On South Lake Tahoe, the Nevada casinos are located in Stateline, NV (the town where you enter/leave California). This is where you'll find Harrah's, Bally's, and Hardrock Hotel & Casino, among others.
South Lake Tahoe doesn't have a simple public transport option so the easiest way to get around is by renting a car or taking an Uber or Lyft driver service. There are public buses but they don't run frequently and do take more than a few hours to get from Tahoe City to Stateline.
North Lake Tahoe has a collection of casinos as soon as you cross the border into Nevada at Crystal Bay. You will find Jim Kelley's Nugget and the Crystal Bay Casino right on the border, but if you drive a little further the Grand Lodge Casino at Hyatt can be found in Incline Village.
Of course, there are more gambling places than I've listed here so you won't have trouble finding a casino on Lake Tahoe.
There is a bus company that services Truckee and locations as far as Tahoma and Incline Village so the casinos in the north are easier to access without a car than the ones at Stateline in the south.
Most casino hotels offer free shuttle services as well but these tend to be less frequent than taxi services.
Accessibility: Casinos in Lake Tahoe are ADA compliant and fully wheelchair-accessible.
Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe
17. Practice Your Photography Skills At Lake Tahoe
If you're looking to take some great photos of Lake Tahoe, there are more than a few locations to polish up your skills.
Emerald Bay is always a popular destination for photographers and the Emerald Bay State Park Lookout is a great place to get that island view. It does very much depend on the season however as sometimes if there has been a plentiful spring and summer, the trees can be a little thick. Inspiration Point off Emerald Bay road on the other side of the bay is more heavily treed but still has a great view of the bay.
Some other places to hone your camera skills are:
Eagle Falls – for waterfall photography
The Rubicon trail for great views out over the lake. If you have a great headtorch to find your way back after dark this could be a great spot for some overwater sunset shots.
The hike up to Monkey Rock does have a few steep spots, however the view from the top is stunning. You can see all the jetty's from the houses along the waterfront and the varying depths of the lake are really clear from up here. Its a nice hike but bring plenty of water and don't attempt it after dark.
The rocks at Secret Cove can make for some amazing photography especially early morning before any wind has disturbed the water.
Sand Harbour is one of the most photographed locations around Lake Tahoe, but the popularity is deserved. Crystal-clear water with amazing rock formations and a white sandy bottom means that you won't have to do too much work to get a great photo here.
If you would rather join a dedicated photography tour, consider this photography tour that lets you take some great photos while experiencing some of the best sights and scenery Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Accessibility: See the earlier entry on hiking trails for accessible hiking trails that provide excellent opportunities to practice your photography skills.
Eagle Falls, Lake Tahoe
18. Spend The Day Hunting Waterfalls Around Lake Tahoe
You may have heard about the waterfalls around Lake Tahoe, and if you haven't, you're missing out. There are so many different kinds of waterfalls in the area, from ones that you can hike to on foot to ones that require a boat or kayak to access.
Here are some ideas for your next waterfall hunting trip:
Eagle Falls – With both lower and upper falls to see and only a mile to walk into the lower falls, Eagle Falls is a popular but serene setting. From the lower falls a short but steeper hike brings you to the upper falls. While it is only around a 70-foot drop it is a consistent flow and so perfect for those waterfall photos.
Cascade Falls – Accessible from a trailhead at Highway 89 Cascade Creek Falls can be beautiful in the spring due to all the wildflowers in bloom. Lush ferns like the path and it’s a relatively easy walk into the falls.
Horsetail Falls has an 800-foot drop so impressive as a waterfall, however, combined with the incredible blue of the water, it is one you shouldn't miss. Only about 7 miles from Echo Summit the highway trailhead offers easy access to these falls.
Accessibility: Unfortunately. these hikes are not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues. The easiest hike to see one of Tahoe’s great waterfalls is Cascade Falls. The trail is rated easy.
Parasailing
19. Go Parasailing On Lake Tahoe
Parasail Tahoe offers parasailing at Ski Run Marina. From only $100 per flight, it might be the most affordable parasailing in northern California!
Accessibility: Travelers should have a moderate degree of physical fitness to participate. Must weigh at least 40 lbs and no more than 300 lbs to participate.
Scenic views of Tahoe from the sky
20. Splurge On A Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Lake Tahoe
If you have some extra money at the end of your holiday, consider splashing out on a scenic helicopter flight over Lake Tahoe. While you can do this in the winter as well, the colors of the water in the summer months are just stunning.
It's a totally different style of helicopter flight. Usually, helicopter flights are done over cities like Dubai, however, this one is really worth it to see the landscape, homes, and beaches you might not otherwise know are there.
Accessibility: The helicopter ride and all surfaces visited are wheelchair-accessible. Each passenger must weigh under 300 lbs. Most travelers can participate.
Beautiful Lake Tahoe
My Top 20 Activities To Do In Summer In Lake Tahoe
With so many great things to see and do at Lake Tahoe, you’re sure to have a great time. You can spend the day exploring the trails on foot or by bike, paddleboarding on the lake, hiking up some of the awesome mountains around it and so much more!
Don’t forget that if all this activity gets your blood pumping too much then there are also plenty of casinos located nearby where you can try your luck in their poker rooms or slot machines.
Author Bio:
Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She's always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.
