If you’re looking for the perfect summertime vacation spot where you can find endless outdoor summer activities, Lake Tahoe is where you’ll want to go! As the spring gives way to the high temperatures and endless sunny days of summer, this picturesque region transforms into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike!
Lake Tahoe is a large area and it can be overwhelming to figure out where to go, what to do and where to stay! That’s where we come in! At Tahoe Signature Properties, we not only have incredible vacation rentals that allow our guests to experience the very best of Lake Tahoe but our local team has insider information on everything Lake Tahoe! In this post, we unveil all the top summer activities in Lake Tahoe plus give you the inside scoop on how to get here and where to stay so you can plan your holiday stress-free!
Whether you’re looking for epic mountain biking, exhilarating hikes, relaxing beach days, dining destinations, breathtaking sunrises or you want to experience some uniquely Lake Tahoe attractions and activities, you’re in the right place!
No matter what you’re planning to do this summer, Lake Tahoe promises an unforgettable escape! Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of this spectacular destination.
Hiking in Lake Tahoe
North Lake Tahoe boasts an array of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels! From easy river and lakeside walks that are perfect for the whole family to challenging mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone when you’re hiking in Lake Tahoe! In this stunning region, you can explore the lush forests and scenic meadows of Tahoe State Recreation Area or Donner Memorial State Park, where well-marked trails offer opportunities to check out the diverse plants, flowers and trees, wildlife spotting and incredible photography! If you’re looking for a climb that is rewarded with some stunning views, checkout these incredible viewpoints where you can gaze out over the azure waters, rolling hills and mountains of Lake Tahoe.
Remember no matter what kind of hike you’re planning on, be sure to pack plenty of water, a high SPF sunscreen, a hat, sturdy footwear, and always adhere to trail etiquette to minimize your impact on the environment. Whether you’re a novice hiker or a seasoned adventurer, North Lake Tahoe’s hiking trails promise a memorable outdoor experience!
Find more information about hiking in Lake Tahoe here!
Biking in Lake Tahoe
Road Biking
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of North Lake Tahoe at a leisurely pace is with a road biking adventure! The area offers a plethora of easy-going routes that wind along the scenic shores of the lake and through charming mountain towns. Pedal along the Truckee River Bike Trail or the West Shore Bike Path for picturesque views and gentle terrain suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Mountain Biking
Thrill-seekers will find endless excitement on the mountain biking trails of North Lake Tahoe! From adrenaline-pumping downhill descents to technical singletracks, there are trails to challenge riders of all levels throughout the region! Test your skills at the legendary Flume Trail or tackle the rocky terrain of the Tahoe Rim Trail for an unforgettable off-road experience amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
Rentals
Whether you’re in need of an electric bike, a rugged mountain bike, or a sleek road bike, North Lake Tahoe has you covered with a variety of rental options! Explore the region with ease by renting from these local outfitters offering a wide selection of bikes and gear to suit your needs. From helmets and bike locks to trail maps and expert advice, these knowledgeable rental shops will make sure you have everything you need for a seamless biking experience in this outdoor paradise!
Fishing in Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re an experienced angler or you just want an opportunity to learn more about this popular hobby, Lake Tahoe is a great place for you! If you’re well versed in the sport of fishing and you’re ready to head out on a solo adventure, you can discover an abundance of great fishing spots in Lake Tahoe! Rent a boat and head out onto the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe, the cool waves of Donner Lake, or throw on your waders and find a spot along the Truckee River! You can spend hours casting lines for a variety of fish species amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
Love fishing but want to go with an expert? No problem! There are tons of incredible guided fishing tours in Lake Tahoe that offer invaluable insights into the best fishing spots, techniques, and gear that will enhance your angling experience and ensure you walk away with a great catch or two!
If you’re visiting and need to stock up on gear, you’ll find great local bait shops and outfitters, where friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you need. Plus there are tons of resources that will give you tips on prime fishing times and locations, what species you can find and how to reel in a great catch!
For more Lake Tahoe fishing information and resources click here!
Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe
North Lake Tahoe boasts a collection of pristine beaches that offer the perfect retreat for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike. From the sandy shores of Kings Beach State Recreation Area to the tranquil coves of Sand Harbor, there’s a beach for every preference. Families can enjoy the calm waters and amenities at Commons Beach, while adventurers can explore the rugged beauty of Sugar Pine Point Beach.
Hidden Swimming Spots
Sometimes in the summer, the popular beaches around the lake become so busy it can defeat the purpose of a beach day! So when the popular beaches get crowded, you can still have a great day on the lake at these hidden spots! Sometimes you may have to pack your bathing suit and hike along lakeside trails to see if you can find a spot to dive in but there are other places like Chimney Beach, Bliss Beach, Hidden Beach and Moon Dunes Beach that rewards explorers with breathtaking views and pristine swimming conditions.
Boating on Lake Tahoe
Guided Lake Tours
Want to kick back, relax and enjoy the summer sun, the azure waters and cloudless skies? Then you may want to book a guided boat tour of Lake Tahoe! With expert captains at the helm, these tours offer a seamless and immersive experience, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery. From sunset cruises to sunny days spent picnicking onboard and diving into the water, these guided boat tours provide visitors a chance to explore the lake, and enjoy the unparalleled natural beauty without having to worry about a thing!
Lake Tahoe Boat Rentals
If you want the freedom of exploring the waters of Lake Tahoe at your own pace, boat rentals are the way to go! If you want to be able to explore as much of the lake as you can, fish from the sides, take kids tubing, water ski and more, you’ll want to rent a speedboat! Imagine zipping around the lake exploring secluded coves and pristine beaches! For a more tranquil experience, opt for a kayak or paddleboard rental and paddle along the calm waters of the lake’s shoreline. Although you won’t get as far as quickly with a kayak, you can paddle in silence and soak up the sounds of nature while the water softly laps at your oars. With a kayak, you can also navigate easily close to the shore for wildlife sightings, reach hidden coves and secluded beaches! With options for every preference, boat rentals provide the perfect opportunity to create your own personalized Lake Tahoe adventure!
Gondola Rides
While you might think of Lake Tahoe gondolas as a mode of transportation for skiers to get to the top of the mountain in the winter, this is actually an incredible experience in the summer as well! Whether you’re heading up on the Palisades Tahoe Gondola for a day of hiking, mountain biking or simply to enjoy the views, this is a great way to see Lake Tahoe from a new perspective and enjoy a unique mountain experience! Meanwhile, the Northstar California Gondola transports visitors from the village to the summit, providing stunning vistas of the lake and peaks, perfect for leisurely sightseeing or embarking on alpine adventures. If you’re looking to go further afield, Heavenly Village’s gondola in South Lake Tahoe is a great option, especially if you’re looking for a pit stop on a scenic drive around the lake.
Rock Climbing
With so many towering mountains around Lake Tahoe, it’s no wonder that this area is known for it’s world-class rock climbing! From granite cliffs and rugged outcrops, to steep slopes and enormous boulders, climbers of all levels are drawn to the challenges that this beautiful region offers. Gear up and head to Lover’s Leap, a nearly 600 ft vertical granite wall near Pioneer Trail off Strawberry Court where you’ll find lots of routes to tackle. Meanwhile, Donner Summit beckons with its own array of crags and climbs, each providing a unique test of skill and nerve against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada. For those seeking the thrill of bouldering, Truckee River Canyon offers a playground of granite blocks to conquer like Big Chief perfect for sport climbers. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a novice looking to test your limits, Lake Tahoe is an incredible place to test your skills and climb to new heights!
Click here more details about rock climbing in Lake Tahoe!
Scuba Diving
Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or looking for a new experience, Lake Tahoe is a great place to scuba! Famed for its crystal clear waters, Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the US at 1,645 ft and offers a unique diving experience where you can explore its depths to discover submerged cliffs, rocky formations sculpted by ancient glaciers and wrecks. With visibility reaching up to 100 feet, divers can admire this underwater world’s incredible beauty. Check out the popular Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail, where historic boats rest, and the Tahoe Maritime Museum’s underwater park, showcasing sculptures and exhibits. Despite chilly temperatures year-round, diving in Tahoe provides a thrilling adventure for all, unveiling the lake’s hidden treasures and maritime history in an unforgettable way.
Horseback Riding
Connect with the spirit of Lake Tahoe’s Wild West history and spend an afternoon exploring the region on horseback! Saddle up and head down the many rugged mountain trails, winding through pine forests and meadows alive with wildflowers. Guided rides are a great way to learn more about the region’s history and natural wonders, and you can find the perfect experience for riders of all levels! If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, you can book a private ride or an overnight pack trip, exploring remote backcountry trails and camping under the starry skies!
Check out these incredible stables!