12 Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe (Summer & Winter Editions)

From sun-soaked beaches to snow-covered peaks, Lake Tahoe is the choose-your-own-adventure of California. Whether you’re here for paddleboarding in the sunshine or carving powder down the slopes, this magical alpine playground has a vibe for every season. Ready to see why Lake Tahoe is a year-round bucket list destination?

🌞 Lake Tahoe in the Summer: Sunny Days, Cool Water, Pure Bliss

Swim at Sand Harbor
Clear water. Granite boulders. White sand. You’ll think you teleported to the Caribbean.

@visit

Have you explored the hidden coves of 📍#LakeTahoe? Swim through the calm waters and find your own slice of paradise🏞️😍 Send this to your adventure buddy 👏 #tahoe #explorecalifornia #visitlaketahoe #laketahoeadventures #natureescape

♬ original sound – Visit

Hike the Eagle Lake Trail
A short, sweet hike with massive views and a hidden alpine lake at the end.

Go kayaking or paddleboarding
Early mornings are glassy and quiet — perfect for exploring coves and spotting fish under your board.

@eyatheplaya

bluest of blue meets greenest of green 🌊🌲💗 📸: @Quin #laketahoecalifornia #pinetrees #summer #views #paddleboard #friends #grateful #summer #outdoors #nature #fypage #foryoupage

♬ original sound – tucker

Cruise the lake on a paddle wheeler
Hop aboard the Tahoe Queen or M.S. Dixie II for sunset vibes and old-school charm.

Bike the East Shore Trail
This scenic path hugs the lake and gives you nonstop photo ops — even if you’re not a pro cyclist.

Sip & shop in Truckee
Charming, historic, and full of local boutiques, craft breweries, and riverside dining.

@evasionsusa

so peaceful 🩵 #laketahoe #laketahoecalifornia #laketahoevacation #laketahoewinter #california #californiaadventure #californiawinter #californiacheck #californialakes #winter #winter2023 #wintervacay #exploreusa #usa #evasionsusa #visittheusa #visitusa #wanderlust #travelusa #usatravel #californiadreaming #californianature

♬ whore – mehro

❄️ Lake Tahoe in the Winter: Snow Days, Cozy Nights, Mountain Magic

Ski or snowboard at Heavenly, Palisades Tahoe, or Northstar
Tahoe’s world-class slopes deliver views and verticals that go way beyond average.

Ride the Heavenly Gondola
Even non-skiers can enjoy this — panoramic views and hot cocoa at the top? Yes please.

@freespiritmadhutravels

Worth the Iconic View? 📍Heavenly Village Gondola, Lake Tahoe California 💙💙💙ABSOLUTELY 💙💙💙 Read Below Heavenly Gondola transports passengers (8 people per car) 2.5 miles up the mountainside in about 15 minutes. The gondola makes 2 stops: * First, at The Deck, a mid-level observation platform (elev. 9123 ft.) featuring plaques that indicate points of interest, such as Mount Tallac and other landmarks on Lake Tahoe and in Carson Valley. * At this stop you can get a cup of joe at Cafe Blue or purchase souvenirs at Gondola Sports. * Second and final stop: at 9136 ft. elev. the gondola provides access to more spectacular views and offers loads of activities such as snow tubing, zip lining, skiing. * For those interested in relaxing and taking in the sights, Smokehouse Grill offers daily lunches of barbecue faire, and there’s a bar offering plenty of options. * For those interested in working up a sweat, take Tamarack Express lift to get to the trailheads of some pretty awesome hikes. 🎫 Ticket prices vary based on season $69-$102 per adult 🚗 Parking in the Heavenly Village parking lot from where you can enter the shops in 5 min walk. We paid $35 for a 3 hour parking 💙Send it to your mountain and Snow lovers! 🫶I am a Silicon Valley Techie on a mission to help you plan trips in California through authentic honest reviews. 📌Do Follow @freespiritmadhutravels and drop a ❤️ if this helped you! It makes an impact more than you know ☺️ #heavenlyvillage #heavenlygondola #southlaketahoe #laketahoe #californiasnow #californiaviews #bestlakecalifornia #freespiritmadhutravelscalifornia #trendingaudio #trendingreels

♬ My Love Mine All Mine – Mitski

Snowshoe to Chickadee Ridge
Feed birds right out of your hand and enjoy a peaceful winter trail near Mount Rose.

Go tubing or sledding with the fam
Tahoe is full of kid-friendly spots like Hansen’s Resort and Adventure Mountain.

Unwind in a lakeside hot tub
Nothing beats watching snow fall while you soak with a view.

Après-ski at Basecamp Beer Garden
Live music, fire pits, and toasty drinks make it the perfect post-slope hangout.

@snow.reapers

@john summit Experts Only Après Ski event at Heavenly Lake Tahoe CA. Easily the most epic Après ski ive been to. So sick! #johnsummit #expertsonly #laketahoe #apresski #snowboarding

♬ original sound – Snow Reapers Apparel

Whether you’re chasing sun-drenched trails or snowfall fairytales, Lake Tahoe is that rare place that wears all seasons beautifully. So pack your swimsuit and your snow boots — because no matter when you go, Tahoe shows off.

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