Lake Tahoe, an alpine lake on two states
Water so clear you can see the rocks on the bottom, Sierra Nevada pine forests and ski runs with lake views straddling California and Nevada.
Plan your Lake Tahoe trip
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Places to stay at Lake Tahoe
Live rates for 3 nights and 2 adults, near the slopes or by the lake.
Lake Tahoe highlights
An emerald bay, granite beaches and mountains to ski: the lake in five stops.
- Nov–AprSki season, snow permitting
- ≈6,225 ftLake elevation
- ≈1,645 ftMaximum lake depth
- ≈1 hDrive from Reno airport
Lake Tahoe in pictures
From a 19th-century oil painting to Heavenly's snow: the lake in every season.
- The lake as painted by Thomas Hill · Thomas Hill (Public domain)
- Emerald Bay and Fannette Island · Eric Philbin (CC0)
- The lake from a mountain trail · Blake Everett Carroll (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Reflections in Emerald Bay · dconvertini (CC BY-SA 2.0)
- Clear water at Sand Harbor · Blake Everett Carroll (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Heavenly's runs at sunset · Jonathan Cook-Fisher (CC BY 2.0)
Lake Tahoe travel FAQ
Seasons, getting there from Reno, where to stay and what to pack for the mountains.
When is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe?
It depends on your plans. Ski season runs roughly from late November to April, snow permitting. For beaches, kayaking and hiking, June to September is best. October brings fall color and fewer people, while May and November are shoulder months with fewer services open.
Which airport do I fly into, and how do I reach the lake?
The closest is Reno-Tahoe (RNO) in Nevada, about an hour's drive from the North Shore and a bit more to South Lake Tahoe. From Mexico you will usually connect once. Sacramento (SMF), about 2 hours away, is another option. A rental car is the most practical way to get around the lake.
What documents do I need when traveling from Mexico?
A valid passport and a valid U.S. visa. To rent a car, bring a valid driver's license and a credit card in the driver's name; in winter, ask the rental company about 4x4 vehicles or chains.
What should I know about winter driving?
Snowstorms can trigger chain controls requiring chains or four-wheel drive, and some stretches, such as the road above Emerald Bay, can close temporarily. Check road conditions before you leave, drive slowly and allow extra time for the trip to and from Reno.
Where can I ski at Lake Tahoe?
Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe is famous for its lake views and a gondola that starts in the middle of town. Up north are Northstar and Palisades Tahoe, host of the 1960 Winter Olympics. All of them have ski schools for beginners and equipment rentals.
Where should I stay?
South Lake Tahoe has the most hotels, restaurants and nightlife, next to Heavenly and the Stateline casinos on the Nevada side. The North Shore, with Tahoe City, Kings Beach and Incline Village, is quieter. Truckee, a short drive from the lake, is close to Northstar and Palisades Tahoe.
What is there to do in summer?
Swim or paddle at Sand Harbor, Kings Beach or Pope Beach, kayak Emerald Bay, hike down to Vikingsholm, follow trails with lake views or bike along the shore. Sand Harbor fills up early in peak season, so arrive in the morning.
How cold is the lake?
The lake is very deep and its water stays cold even in midsummer, although the shallow areas off the beaches feel more pleasant in July and August. If you kayak or paddleboard, wear a life jacket and avoid going out in strong afternoon wind.
Will the altitude affect me?
The lake sits at about 6,225 feet (1,900 meters), lower than Mexico City, so many Mexican travelers notice little difference. If you are coming from sea level, drink plenty of water, take it easy the first day and wear sunscreen: the sun burns faster at this altitude, even on snow.
How do I visit Vikingsholm Castle?
It sits on the shore of Emerald Bay inside a state park. You reach it on a trail of about one mile down from the highway parking lot, and it is steep on the way back. Guided tours of the house run in summer; the rest of the year you can see the outside if the trail is open.
Keep your Lake Tahoe hotel and Reno flight on your phone, whether you are coming for the snow or the lake.
