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Discover Lake Tahoe
U.S.A, Nevada & California
Photo by Gordon Mak | Unsplash
Up in the Sierra Nevada lies one of the world’s most beautiful lakes. Lake Tahoe is a playground for any outdoor lover and a year round destination. Here is the information you need to know.
Updated on October 19, 2025
Before You Visit Lake Tahoe
A first important thing to mention is the way the lake is organized. All around the lake, there are several cities, the biggest being South Lake Tahoe, California in the south. The southern portion of the lake is the most developed with many infrastructure. On the other hand, the northern part of the lake is known to be more wild. The biggest town in the north is probably Incline Village, Nevada.
A second important thing to mention is the division between the states. Lake Tahoe is divided between the states of Nevada and California. You may be led to cross the state line multiple times during your trip. This means that the laws will change depending on which side of the lake you are. It shouldn't be an issue for the most part, but you may notice it.
Meet Lake Tahoe
The first known people to have lived around Lake Tahoe are the Washoe Native Americans. However, the first European-American explored the area in the mid-19th century. The area was then exploited for its natural resources such as ores and timber. In fact, the logging industry was so active in the area that a huge part of the native forest in the area had been cut. With time, the lake became more popular for vacations and tourism. Some tried to get it designated as a national park but eventually failed due to extensive human impact in the area. Being an ideal location for winter sports, it was used in the 1960 Winter Olympics. From there up until now, it has been a popular year round destination.
Information:
Altitude — 6,225 ft (1,897m)
States — California & Nevada
Most populous town — South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe (1873-1883)
Things To Do In Lake Tahoe During Summer
1. Driving Around The Lake Tahoe
​During the summer, driving around Lake Tahoe is a great thing to do. You will be able to see the lake from various points, discover the smaller towns of the North shore and many stunning places. The trip is generally around 3H and is an easy drive during the summer. Most of the roads are not located next to ravines, but still deliver great views.
Notable Destination (going counterclock wise from south to north):
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Lake Tahoe
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Stateline
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Zephyr Cove
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Sand Harbor
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Incline Village
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Kings Beach
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Tahoe City
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Emerald Bay
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Watch out! Even during the summer some roads may be closed or under maintenant/construction. So check ahead of your trip.
2. Sand Harbor State Park
Sand Harbor State Park is a “small” state park located on the northeast of the lake. It features many sand beaches and allows people to participate in several activities like kayaking, biking or paddling. The park also features the Tahoe East Shore Trail, a 3-mile paved trail linking sand harbor to Incline Village.
Address: 2005 NV-28, Incline Village, NV 89452
Photo by Northern Latitudes
3. Emerald Bay State Park
After Nevada, let’s now get on the California side of the Lake. Located on the West shore, Emerald Bay State Park features a gorgeous lake with blue-green water. The park has two campgrounds (closed depending on the seasons), several hiking trails and also features the Vikingsholm, a castle in the Scandinavian style.
Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Photo by Northern Latitudes
4. Van Sickle Bi-State Park
If the two state parks mentioned earlier were located on the shores of the lake, this one is higher in the mountains. As its name suggests, Van Sickle is a state park managed by Nevada in partnership with California. It is of day use only, and a popular destination for hiking or mountain biking. The park has falls, access to the Tahoe Rim Trail, and the old buildings of the former Van Sickle’s family ranch.
Address: 30 Lake Pkwy, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Photo by Northern Latitudes
5. Zephyr Cove
Zephyr Cove is a small census-designated place on the Nevada side of the lake. It is popular for its beach and resort which offer plenty of activities like cruises on the lake.
Photo by Vince M | Unsplash
6. The Gondola at Heavenly
Heavenly is one of Tahoe's most popular ski stations, and they found a very smart way of making the station attractive in summer when snow is on vacation. The gondolas usually used to get the people up to the ski areas are turned in a 2.4-mile ride with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Additionally, the station offers other activities like climbing, Mountain Coster, Zip line and more.
Address: 1021 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Photo by Lesli Whitecotton | Unsplash
7. Eagle Falls
Looking for a fun hike that is not too difficult? Eagle Falls might be worth the interest. This 1.8 miles (~2.9km) moderate hike is accessible to families and will take you through beautiful landscapes that will eventually lead you to Eagle Falls. Although the trail is accessible, keep in mind that some areas include ascending and descending stairs.
Address (Parking Lot to the Hike): California 96150
Photo by Sam Goodgame | Unsplash
8. Kayak, Paddle & Hike!
This may sound a bit obvious, but where there is great extents of water, there are water-related activities. Lake Tahoe is a nice place to kayak or paddle. The crystal clear water combined with the summer weather makes it a pleasure to have fun there. And it won’t be too difficult to find renting facilities.
Photo by Adrianna Geo | Unsplash
9. Tallac Historic Site
The Tallac Historic Site is an area that includes the Tallac Resort, Baldwin and Pope Estates. It features multiple historical buildings of the resort that once operated there, as well as a museum that will teach you a bit more about Lake Tahoe. You can also wander through the property and enjoy the summer in the gardens of the estates.
Address: 1 Heritage Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Bonus: Tahoe Rim Trail
If most people generally stay down on the shores of the lake to enjoy the nice things there, some people like to enjoy the calm and peace offered by the wilderness. That is the kind of environment that the hikers of the Tahoe Rim Trail enjoy. This trail encircling the Lake Tahoe is around 165-170-mile long and generally takes multiple days to hike. It is a challenge that many like to undertake each year in the summer. Although this trail is for experienced hikers, we like to let people know it is there – you may hear about it or see signs for it.
photo by Northern Latitudes
