Lake Tahoe is California’s best winter getaway. Hollywood stars flock to Lake Tahoe’s 5-star resorts for a break from the hustle and bustle in L.A. It is an outdoor paradise offering amazing adventures and a natural wonderland. These are the top activities in Lake Tahoe during winter.
We took advantage of the winter wave to participate in all snow activities during our road trip around Northern California. We were surprised by Tahoe’s diversity and how it changed from North America to the South.
Things to Do in Lake Tahoe – The Winter Guide
We begin our exploration in the North, exploring the more tranquil side of the region, before moving on to the South, where we will find nightlife, casinos, and pure energy.
Ski Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is known for being a fantastic place to ski. It was home to the 1960 Winter Olympics and has remained in that capacity since. This is the most important thing to do in Lake Tahoe. There are 12 ski resorts in Lake Tahoe, with six significant spas that offer world-class snowboarding and skiing.
Winter Skiing in Lake Tahoe
Heavenly has the highest vertical drop in California. It is located on South Lake Tahoe and draws many people, but it is vast enough to escape the crowds.
Sugarbowl is near San Francisco and Sacramento, making it a popular choice among locals. It retains a traditional feel and receives the most snowfall.
North Star offers some of the most spectacular views of Lake Tahoe. It is a family-friendly resort with a village and the Ritz Carlton Hotel.
You can also check out these other ski resorts:
Snowshoeing Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay is a beautiful scenic spot worth visiting from the air, but getting out and hiking is even more enjoyable!
Camp Richardson Mountain Sports Center can provide snowshoe rentals and all the required information. Camp Richardson offers winter cross-country skiing with cabins to rent, historic hotels, and vacation rentals. This is an option if you wish to avoid spending your time in Tahoe City, the South.
Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
The Winter Sports Park offers cross-country skiing, fat biking, snowshoeing, and ice skating. It is unique because it provides all-inclusive admission for one price and the opportunity to participate in all activities. The Cafe Zenon is on the course so parents can relax and the kids can have fun.
Olympic Museum
Take the Arial Tram to High Camp for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, High Sierras, and Lake Tahoe. While there, stop by the Olympic Museum to see memorabilia from the 1960 Winter Olympics.
Snowfest
Every February and March ( See details on their website), ten days of winter fun are held in different locations. Parties, the Polar Plunge, live music, and outdoor fun await you.
Lighthouse Spa
Your body is subject to a lot of stress after snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Relax at the Lighthouse Spa to unwind. Get a massage, a facial, or a complete body treatment such as a warm aromatherapy wrap.
Heavenly Gondola
You don’t have to be a skier to climb the mountain of Heavenly. The gondola ride is a fantastic adventure for those who dislike skiing. You will be taken 2.5 miles by Gondola to reach an observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Notable: The weather was not cooperating when we were there, so we didn’t get a view from the top. We have photos of them, and they are stunning!
Casinos Tahoe South
Although we aren’t big on gambling, it is evident that people love the casinos on the Nevada side of Tahoe South.
Bally’s and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino are just some examples. This is one of the most visited things to do in Lake Tahoe South. South Lake Tahoe has excitement, nightlife, and many dining options.
Lake Tahoe’s Scenic Views
Driving around Tahoe is an enjoyable way to enjoy the scenery. Here are our top picks for photos.
Donner Lake
The lookout is excellent on the climb to Sugar Bowl. You can enjoy a stunning lake view from one of the pullouts.
Emerald Bay
You can stop at many places from North Tahoe to South Tahoe to enjoy the scenery. It would help if you stopped at every cut-off for Emerald Bay to take in the beautiful views.
Zephyr Cove
This view is located on the Nevada Side of Lake Tahoe. It offers a beautiful scenic view of islands, beaches, and a famous single tree that is becoming increasingly popular on Instagram.
Lake Tahoe Hotels
Lake Tahoe North
Cedar Crest Cottages are great for couples or large families. The cottage has an outdoor fire pit and kitchen. Although it is not close to everything, most people seek this when visiting Lake Tahoe.
Sunnyside Resort: Although we only ate there, the meal was delicious, and the owner was amiable. You feel more like you’re in a ski village when you’re here.
Lake Tahoe South
Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel This is the most convenient area, right next to Heavenly Gondola. This hotel is very busy with many families. It could use some upgrades. You can go precisely when it comes to the price or location.
