aerial view of Northstar Village and resort

Most people know Northstar as one of North Lake Tahoe’s premier ski resorts, but summer is when the mountain reveals a completely different side. Lift-served mountain biking, scenic hiking trails, mountain-view golf, family activities, and live music in the Village make Northstar one of our favorite places to recommend for a summer getaway.

After helping guests experience North Lake Tahoe year after year, we’ve found that Northstar is one of the easiest places to settle into vacation mode. Instead of coordinating logistics, you can spend more time enjoying the mountain riding world-class mountain bike trails, enjoying lunch in the Village, hiking through the pines in the afternoon, and finishing the day with live music, all without constantly getting back in the car. Being able to walk, shuttle, or ride directly to many of the area’s most popular activities changes the pace of the entire vacation.

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Why Stay in Northstar This Summer?

One of the reasons we love recommending Northstar is how effortless it makes a family vacation. Once you’ve arrived, the Village, hiking trails, mountain biking, golf, restaurants, and summer activities are all within easy reach.

Snowbird Tahoe Getaway interior - upscale short term rental in North Lake TahoeMany of our homes include access to the Northstar Property Owners Association amenities, and the complimentary shuttle that makes getting around the resort simple. After a full day outside, there’s nothing better than returning to your vacation home, grilling dinner on the deck, relaxing in the hot tub, or gathering together for a quiet evening.

Whether you’re planning an active adventure or a relaxing mountain escape, Northstar gives you the flexibility to do both.

Things to Do in Northstar in Summer

Mountain Biking

adult and child riding on one of Northstar California's bike park trails Northstar Bike Park has earned its reputation as one of the premier lift-served mountain biking destinations in North America, and it’s one of the first places we recommend to riders visiting Lake Tahoe.

With more than 50 miles of professionally maintained trails ranging from beginner-friendly flow tracks to technical descents, every rider can find something that matches their ability. If you’re new to downhill riding, the Bike Academy offers lessons and rentals, while experienced riders can challenge themselves on advanced terrain or join one of the park’s summer race events.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Northstar is finishing your ride and being back at your vacation rental within minutes.

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Hiking and Scenic Lift Rides

group of young friends at the summit of a hike in NorthstarYou don’t have to ride a bike to experience the mountain.

During the summer months, scenic lift rides make it easy to access beautiful hiking trails without tackling a long climb first. We often recommend this option for families or anyone looking to enjoy panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada and glimpses of Lake Tahoe without committing to an all-day hike.

Wildflowers, alpine forests, and cool mountain air make Northstar one of our favorite places to slow down and simply enjoy being outside.

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Golf at Northstar

North Lake Tahoe and Truckee Golfing

Golfers will find one of North Lake Tahoe’s most enjoyable mountain courses tucked right into the resort.

Designed by Robert Muir Graves, Northstar Golf Course blends traditional mountain golf with a classic links-style front nine, creating a course that’s as scenic as it is enjoyable to play. Morning tee times are especially popular during the summer, so we always recommend reserving your round in advance.

Many of our nearby vacation rentals make it easy to head from the course straight back to your deck for an afternoon barbecue or an evening under the stars.

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The Village at Northstar

four women shopping in the Village at NorthstarThe Village is where Northstar slows down in all the right ways.

While the mountain offers plenty of adventure, we often encourage guests to leave room for an unplanned afternoon here. Kids can play mini golf or bounce on the bungee trampoline while parents relax with a coffee, browse the local shops, or enjoy a drink on one of the outdoor patios. As the evening arrives, live music fills the plaza and the entire Village takes on a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that keeps people lingering long after dinner.

It’s one of those places where making memories doesn’t require an itinerary.

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Dining in Northstar

woman eating in a restaurant - diningOne thing we always remind guests is that you don’t need to leave the resort to enjoy a great evening out.

Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch after hiking, handcrafted pizza with the family, or an elevated dinner overlooking the mountains, Northstar offers dining options for every pace of vacation. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is always worth planning ahead.

Of course, many of our guests tell us that one of their favorite evenings is picking up dinner in the Village and enjoying it back at their vacation rental while watching the sun disappear behind the pines.

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Our Northstar Summer Vacation Rentals

Whether you want to stay steps from the Village or retreat to a quiet mountain home after a day of adventure, we have a Northstar vacation rental to match the way you travel.

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Northstar Townhomes

 

Livingroom shot of Gold Bend Getaway - townhouse in Northstar

Offering more space and classic alpine character, our townhomes feature inviting living areas, cozy fireplaces, and room for families to spread out while remaining close to everything Northstar has to offer.

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Northstar Homes

Living room of home away from home - Northstar vacation rental

Ideal for larger families and groups, our detached mountain homes offer generous living spaces, private outdoor areas, and amenities like hot tubs that make relaxing after a day on the trails just as memorable as the adventure itself.

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People enjoying the NPOA pool in the summerNorthstar Property Owners’ Association Recreation Center

Plus, our Northstar vacation rentals also include access to the Northstar Property Owners’ Association Recreation Center for a nominal daily fee. Enjoy two swimming pools, a children’s splash pad, outdoor spas, tennis courts, a fitness center, and Northstar’s convenient shuttle service, giving you even more ways to relax, recharge, and make the most of your summer vacation.

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Book Your Northstar Summer Getaway Direct

After welcoming guests to North Lake Tahoe for years, we’ve learned that the best vacations aren’t about packing more into the day. They’re about finding a place where adventure feels effortless and every evening ends somewhere comfortable to come home to.

That’s exactly what you’ll find in Northstar. When you book directly with Tahoe Signature Properties, you’ll enjoy our best available rates, local recommendations, responsive guest support, and professionally managed homes that let you experience the mountain like a local.

Start Planning Your Northstar Summer Getaway Today

Browse availability, give us a call at (530) 562-4242, or contact our local team.

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