Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide Summer/Fall 2025

LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE | SUMMER/FALL 2025

Scenic Fun BEACHING, BOATING, HIKING, PEDALING, PADDLING & MORE

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Find your sierrasothebysrealty.com

C O N TAC T O N E O F O U R G LO B A L R E A L E STAT E A D V I S O R S TO D AY

LAUREN CORDA

J E SS I C A W O O D S

K E R RY M C N E W F E N TO N

530.412.1032

530.457.7747

530.305.0761

CA DRE 02213057

CA DRE 01941782 | NV S.0174328

CA DRE 02042346

A L E X G OVA A R S

C A M I L L E D U VA L L

E L L E N C A M AC H O

530.563.8115

917.797.3554

530.563.8750

CA DRE 02216290

CA DRE 02106267 | NV BS.0146948

CA DRE 00854830 | NV BS.0145459

JOE KING

ANDREA KING

ANGIE CHALLENOR

530.416.0850

530.416.0851

530.725.9727

CA DRE 01957156

CA DRE 01957154

CA DRE 02236785

RENO | INCLINE VILL AGE | ZEPHYR COVE | SOUTH L AKE TAHOE | TAHOE CIT Y | OLYMPIC VALLEY | TRUCKEE ©MMXXIV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Copyright© Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty 2024. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. Third party information is considered reliable but has not been verified.

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YOU, ONLY BETTER. Multi-Specialty Orthopedics • Sports Medicine • Spine Services • Total Joint Care

Get back to the best version of yourself. Our passionate physicians are focused on making you a better you.

530.543.5554

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bartonhealth.org

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In partnership with Tahoe Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physicians

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WINNER

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10046 Donner Pass Road, #3 530-582-0429

TAHOE CITY

TRUCKEE

BluestoneTahoe.com

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abs t r ac t | land s c ap e | s c ulp t ure | ar t cons ul t ing

PI PE R J G A L L E RY.CO M | 10250 D O N N E R PA SS ROA D, T R U C K E E | @ PI PE R J G A L L E RY SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 5

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Lisa Jefferson | Viridian Waters | acrylic on canvas

CONTEMPOR ARY ART FOR MOUNTAIN LIVING

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WELCOME

Contents 8

Welcome!

Protecting What’s Precious.

10

Directory Businesses and Services.

13

Top Summer Attractions Scenery, history, beaches and parks.

16

Recreation Map Roads, trails, bike paths, beaches and golf.

20

Take a Walk Strolls, hikes and dog walks.

23

Head for the Water Sunning, paddling, waterskiing and swimming.

26

Boating and Floating Ski boats, lake cruises and river rafting.

28

Go Pedaling Bike paths, single-track, road-riding and parks.

30

More Fun Golf, scenic rides and history.

Cover Photo: Emerald Bay sunrise. PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON© Left: Tahoe City sunset. PHOTO BY MKE EADINGTON©

LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE SUMMER/FALL 2025 Publisher & Editor Chaco Mohler Art Director Allison Monroe Distribution Mitch Landaburu Published by C2M Media LLC P.O. Box 5897 Tahoe City, CA 96145 Inquiries: chaco@c2m.media Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide, ©2025 C2M Media LLC. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of C2M Media LLC. C2M Media LLC assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertising in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify C2M Media LLC against any claims relating to the advertisement. At the time of printing, C2M Media LLC attempted to verify all information as accurate but assumes no responsibility for changes to independent business and service operations, or any other inaccuracies contained herein. Call ahead to businesses and services for current information and restrictions.

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SECTION

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WELCOME

Protecting What’s Precious There are a multitude of reasons to visit Tahoe in summer— beaches, boating, biking and much more. But whatever brought you here, Tahoe’s natural beauty is the icing on its cake of fun. On long summer days and fall evenings, sky and wind paint the lake in ever-changing hues and textures. At night, a brilliant, star-filled universe reflects in the water’s calm surface, framed by granite and forest.

Preservation of Tahoe’s unique scenic beauty has been supported by Americans of all stripes for decades. U.S. Congress members, governors and presidents of both parties have joined together numerous times to fund Tahoe Basin restoration. But “Keeping Tahoe Blue” is an on-going effort. Visitors can help in a variety of ways. Park your car and take advantage of FREE, door-to-door micro-transit in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee (page 11), also available between Stateline, Nevada and South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods. Cycle or scooter to nearby beaches and picnic spots on beautiful bike paths. Fill your water bottles with Tahoe’s exceptional tap water and save on single-use plastic.

Bucks Beach Moonrose. PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON©

Please don’t litter and pick up after your pets. Food or garbage bags left unattended outdoors are quick pickings for ravens and other wildlife. Don’t leave food of any kind in a vehicle parked overnight—Tahoe’s Black Bear have a keen sense of smell and are adept at opening car doors or breaking windows. Snow may remain this spring on the mountain peaks well past June, but fire danger this summer and fall will likely remain high; please help us keep our communities safe.

On the pages that follow is information on a wide variety of regional activities, popular sites, and a pull-out, Summer Recreation Map (page 16) to guide your journeys. We hope your visit surpasses your expectations! Enjoy your Tahoe time.

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Lake Tahoe What It’s All About To gather with those you love in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

Natural Retreats offers a diverse collection of vacation home rentals on the west and north shores of Lake Tahoe.

Whether you’re dreaming of a storybook cottage with a woodburning stove, or a timber home with a private hot tub and sweeping lake views—we have the home for you.

Plan your summer escape to an enchanted destination.

Tra ve l I n s p i re d . Tra ve l We l l . Travel O n .

Scan the QR code to book your Lake Tahoe vacation rental.

NaturalRetreats.com/NorthLakeTahoe

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DIRECTORY

BUSINESSES & SERVICES DINING BRIDGETENDER TAVERN & GRILL 27 American tahoebridgetender.com CHRISTY HILL 8 Modern American christyhill.com FAT CAT BAR & GRILL 15 American fatcatrestaurants.com JAKES ON THE LAKE 21 American jakestahoe.com JASON’S BEACHSIDE GRILL 22 American jasonsbeachsidegrille.com RIVER RANCH 19 Iconic Bar & Restaurant riverranchlodge.com SHADYSIDE LOUNGE 27 Bar & Modern Mexican Cuisine tahoeshadyside.com TAHOE NATIONAL BREWING COMPANY 24 Brewery & Restaurant tahoenational.beer WOLFDALE’S CUISINE UNIQUE 18 Seasonal Asian & Californian wolfdales.com

ACTIVITIES HIGH SIERRA WATERSKI SCHOOL Lessons & Rentals highsierrawaterskiing.com LONELIST ROAD—NEVADA US 50 Stunning landscapes, Historic Towns onelistroad.us SOUTH TAHOE KAYAK & PADDLEBOARD Tours & Rentals southtahoekayak.com TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY Tours & Rentals tahoeadventurecompany.com TAHOE CITY GOLF COURSE Scenic 9-Hole Community Course tcpud.org/golf TAHOE CITY KAYAK Rentals & Tours tahoecitykayak.com TAHOE CITY MARINA Rentals & Marina Services tahoecitymarina.com TAHOE REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCY Invasive Species Boat Inspections

25 15 25 18 30 25 25 27

tahoeboatinspections.com TAHOE TASTINGS 7 Wine Tasting on Classic Yacht Lake Cruises

tahoetastings.com TAHOE TREETOP ADVENTURES 12 Rope Courses & Zip Lines tahoetreetop.com TAHOE WHITEWATER TOURS 29 River Rafting Tours gowhitewater.com U.C. DAVIS TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER 14 Science museum tahoesciencecenter.com VIRGINIA CITY 32 Authentic Old West Town & Tours visitvirginiacitynv.com

LODGING CEDAR CREST COTTAGES/NATURAL RETREATS Vacation Rentals naturalretreats.com/cedarcrest RIVER RANCH LODGE HOTEL & RESTAURANT Hotel & Restaurant riverranchlodge.com

9 19

MEDICAL BARTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Inpatient & Outpatient Services bartonhealth.org TAHOE FOREST HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Inpatient & Outpatient Services tfhd.com

3 9

REAL ESTATE SIERRA SOTHEBY’S INTERATIONAL REALTY Tahoe & Truckee Luxury Leader sierrasothebys.com

2

TRANSPORTATION GARY AIR 11 Regional Charter Flights Garyair.us TAHOE AREA REGIONAL TRANSIT 11 Free in North Tahoe/Truckee tahoetruckeetransit.com

VISITOR SERVICES OF TRUCKEE/CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER

530.587.8808 truckee.com INCLINE VILLAGE CRYSTAL BAY VISITORS BUREAU

775.832.1606 gotahoenorth.com TAHOE CITY VISITORS CENTER

SHOPS & RENTALS THE BACK COUNTRY Rentals & Repairs & Gear thebackcountry.net

BLUESTONE 4 Jewelry & Wine bluestonetahoe.com EADINGTON GALLERY 29 Fine Art Photography theeadingtongallery.com GEARED FOR GAMES / MIND PLAY 19 Games, Puzzles & Toys MOUNTAIN HARDWARE 12 Sporting & Home Goods mountainhardwareandsports.com PIPER J GALLERY 5 Abstracts, Landscapes, Sculpture piperjgallery.com OLYMPIC VALLEY SKI & BIKE 29 Rentals, Repairs & Gear thebackcountry.net THE POTLATCH 31 Jewelry, Gifts & Clothing potlatchlaketahoe.com SCRAPS DOG BAKERY 22 Pet Supplies TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES 21 Sweets & Ice Cream tahoecitychocolates.com TAHOE WINE COLLECTIVE 21 Regional wines, events tahoewinecollective.com

530.581.6900 gotahoenorth.com 29

TAHOE SOUTH VISITORS CENTER

775.588.4591 tahoesouth.com

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Get Closer, Faster!

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Your Air Taxi to the West

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Call for more info (408) 805-4359 or go to ww.garyair.us

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North Lake Tahoe and Truckee

.

Explore the region with ease using free TART Bus and TART Connect service!

TART Bus: Scheduled routes connecting North Lake Tahoe and Truckee.

TART Connect: On-demand rides for short trips and to connect to the TART Bus.

Ryan Salm

Download the TART Connect App or call (530) 553-0653.

TahoeTruckeeTransit.com Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit

TART

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FISHING TIPS & GEAR

OUTDOOR APPAREL & FOOTWEAR

FLOAT TUBES, KAYAKS, & CANOES

GOODBYE WINTER...

Hellooo SUMMER! From scenic hikes to laid-back beach days, gear up for summer with top outdoor brands and expert advice at Mountain Hardware & Sports.

Shop at any one of our four locations in TRUCKEE / INCLINE VILLAGE / BLAIRSDEN mountainhardwareandsports.com

Voted #1 Tahoe Activity

They won’t be checking their phones.

•Over 90 Tree Platforms 40 feet up!

•More than 60 unique “bridges.”

•Fun for the whole family, ages 6+.

•Lots of zip lines too! +/-

.com Reservations highly recommended.

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FEATURES

Sand Harbor State Park has 3 protected coves, (below) Fannette Island dots Emerald Bay. COURTESY PHOTOS

Top Summer Attractions Scenery, history, beaches and parks Emerald Bay Tahoe’s iconic view, Emerald Bay is surrounded by steep mountain sides and dotted with an island topped by a stone tea house. Highway 89 hugs the cliffs above the lake, with parking in 3 lots, plus a few highway-side spots. Eagle Falls tumbles down cliffs below the road into Emerald Bay State Park. A 1.7-mile hike leads to the lakeshore and Vikingsholm “castle,” constructed in 1929 and one of the finest examples of historic Scandinavian architecture in the Western Hemisphere.

Sand Harbor State Park

A marvelous combination of protected cove, rocky point, giant granite boulders and a long, sandy beach, this state park fills its parking lot quickly on many summer days. Transport alternatives include free micro-shuttles hailed by TNT-TMA app and bike trail from Incline Village.

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FEATURES

Heavenly Village & Stateline Casinos

Heavenly Village and nearby casinos, bars and shops are Tahoe’s nucleus of man-made fun. Many spots feature live music, with 24-hour gaming across the Nevada stateline.

An incredibly scenic gondola ride travels up to 9,123-foot elevation and viewing platform, mountain lodge, ropescourse and “mountain-coaster.” Multilpe beaches are a short drive away.

Truckee

Truckee’s authentic “Old West” downtown, bisected by the Transcontinental Railroad, has an entertaining variety of quality restaurants, unique shops, galleries and “saloons.” Trails and bike paths head out in multiple directions, including along the Truckee River and to nearby Martis Valley. Donner Memorial State Park and its museum tell the stories of the infamous Donner Party and other Western pioneers. A trail leads to the sandy shoreline of Donner Lake. Old Highway 40 follows the pioneers’ path over the Sierra Crest.

Visit the UC Davis Tahoe Science Center

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Learn how to protect Lake Tahoe with 3-D films, science displays, and hands-on exhibits.

Tours available Tues.–Sat. 8 years and up Reservations required 201 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada

TahoeScienceCenter.com

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Wide open highway.

Wide open skies.

Your most colorful stories begin here.

Explore the communities along The Loneliest Road in America, Nevada’s Highway 50.

L O N E L I E S T R O A D . U S

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West End Beach Donner Lake

HIKES

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Alpine Meadows

Palisades 4 Tahoe

Olympic Valley

Everline Resort

Tinker Knob

Donner Memorial State Park

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Tahoe City

80

Easy Moderate Strenuous Strenuous Strenuous Moderate Strenuous Moderate

Northstar

Tahoe City

1

Tahoe Vista

Mayberry Park

Olympic Valley, Tahoe City, West Shore Tunnel Creek Cafe, Incline Village Truckee Regional Park, Old Brockway Road Accessed throughout city

ACCESS

5

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2-8 10-20 10-20 14 14 5-20 9 5

Sand Harbor State Park

Incline Village

8

Mt. Rose

3

9

Lake Tahoe State Park

431

Reno Galena Creek Regional Park

Off National Ave., Tahoe Vista Top of Hwy. 267 or behind Tahoe City Hwy. 431, 7 miles from Incline Hwy. 28 & Hwy. 50 junction, Spooner Lake Hwy. 89, 3.5 miles south of Tahoe City Country Club Dr., near Tahoe City Hwy. 89, 6.9 miles south of I-507 Off Thelin Dr., Truckee

MILES 1W TRAILHEAD

MILES

18 4.5 2 11.7

267 Incline Old Brockway Village 7 2 North Tahoe 2 Regional Park 2 1 State Recreation Area 6 28 Kings Beach/

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1 N. Tahoe Regional Park 2 Tahoe Rim Trail (CA) 3 Tahoe Rim Trail (NV) 4 Flume Trail 5 Standford Rock 6 Tahoe XC 7 Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride 8 Sawtooth Ridge

Commons Beach

Burton Creek State Park

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Northstar

Easy Easy Easy Easy

DIFFICULTY

2 1

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS DIFFICULTY

1 North & West Shore 2 Lakeshore path 3 Legacy Trail 4 South Lake Tahoe

PAVED BIKE PATHS

Old Greenwood

Truckee

Ponderosa

3

Gray's Crossing

Hwy. 28, 11 miles south of Incline Lakeshore Ave. behind Tahoe Biltmore Hwy. 28, 10.5 miles south of Incline Behind Olympic Village Inn 2.1 miles up Alpine Meadows Road Top of Blackwood Canyon Road Hwy. 267, just south of Brockway Summit Hwy 431, on right from scenic lookout Top of Hwy.431 behind rest area N. Upper Truckee Rd. off I-50 Hwy. 89 at Meeks Bay Resort Hwy 89 Inspiration Pt. parking End of Fallen Leaf Road

MILES RT TRAILHEAD

2 .5 3 1-4 2-4 2-4 3-8 2-6 12 5.6 4-14 2 3-5

Tahoe Donner

DIFFICULTY

Easy Easy Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Strenuous Easy Moderate Moderate Strenuous

Ta

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1 Spooner Lake Loop 2 Stateline Lookout 3 Skunk Harbor 4 Shirley Canyon 5 Five Lakes 6 Barker Pass 7 Martis Peak 8 Incline Flume 9 Mt. Rose 10 Washoe Meadows 11 Meeks Bay Creek 12 Cascade Creek Falls 13 Glen Alpine Creek

Pac Rim

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Ellis Peak

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Tahoe City

Lake Tahoe

Mt. Tallac

12

13

Fallen Leaf Lake

10

Lake Tahoe

4

Baldwin Beach Kiva & Pope Beaches

Bliss State Park

Meeks Bay Resort

Sugarpine Point State Park

89 Emerald Bay

11

Tahoma

Homewood

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Commons Beach

7

Tahoe Paradise

50

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50

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Genoa Peak

Freel Peak

Heavenly Mountain

Stateline

Edgewood Tahoe 207

Bijou Municipal

South Lake Tahoe

Regan Beach

Nevada Beach

Zephyr Cove Resort Marla Bay Resort

Cave Rock

Glenbrook

4

3

Lake Tahoe State Park

Trail

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST

uc

Tr

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CALIFORNIA

Granite Chief Wilderness

Alpine Meadows

Tahoe

Trail

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FEATURES

Tahoe City, State Park & Museums

Lake Tahoe’s only outlet is the Truckee River in Tahoe City, where a dam controls the top ten feet of the lake. Lean over the railing of “Fanny Bridge” to watch the giant trout below.

Bike paths and sidewalks lead from Gatekeeper Museum throughout this sceni town of unique shops, restaurants and “watering-holes.”

Photo by Pablo Narvaez

ICONIC LODGE, BAR & RESTAURANT

Alpine Meadows Road & Hwy 89

riverranchlodge.com | 530.583.4264 Follow us on

Olympic Valley, Palisades Tahoe

This beautiful alpine valley was the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics. Palisades Tahoe Village features outdoor dining spots and a spectacular aerial tram, traveling up 2,000 vertical feet to a high mountain lodge with a small Olympic museum.

2nd Generation Family Owned

Sugar Pine Point State Park

This park gives a glimpse back in history with its lovely Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, surrounding grounds and boat houses. But it is also features a beautiful shoreline and trails through a forest populated with its name-sake tree.

r

fo

Toys & games for all ages!

Helping create memories and celebrating families!

Two locations: 475 N Lake Blvd in the Cobblestone Mall and Mind Play in the Village at Palisades 530-581-Game SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 19

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TAHOE INFO

SCAN THIS CODE FOR “8 GREAT TAHOE WALKS” ON YOUTUBE.

Take a Walk Strolls

Paved bike and walking paths are found throughout the region. Long stretches include South Lake Tahoe to Tallac Historic Site and nearby beaches, Tahoe City to Meeks Bay or down the river to Olympic Valley, the lakeside trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor, and the Legacy Trail from Truckee along the river to Glenshire. Relatively level dirt trails are found at Sugar Pine Point State Park, Donner State Park, Tallac Historic Site and behind Meeks Bay Resort.

Hiking Trails

From spring through late-fall, Tahoe has perfect hikes for most every day and every mood.

Emerald Bay State Park has a scenic lakeside trail. Tahoe Rim Trail encircles the lake on surrounding peaks and can be accessed at 12 trailheads, including Tahoe Meadows above Incline Village, Brockway Summit off Highway 267, Echo Lakes near Interstate 50, and Spooner Lake near Interstate 50 on Tahoe’s East Shore. A stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail traverses from Donner Summit through Desolation Wilderness, accessed at over 7 trailheads in the Tahoe region.

Desolation is the nation’s most visited wilderness area, requiring permits for overnight stays but not for day hikes.

When exploring Tahoe’s mountains and forests, always carry a fully-charged cellphone, adequate water and extra clothing. Turn to the Recreation Map on page 16 for more trail information.

Dog Walks

Dogs on a lease are welcome on Tahoe’s bike trails, and on lease or under voice command on most hiking trails. Hikes with plentiful water include Meeks Bay creek trail, Glen Alpine trail, Five Lakes trail, Shirley Canyon in Olympic Valley, Truckee River Legacy Trail and Donner Memorial State Park.

Bird Watching Huge granite slabs are common in Tahoe’s high country. COURTESY PHOTO

Spring and fall, migratory birds linger in the larger wetlands of the Upper Truckee River, Carson Valley and Little Truckee River. Around Lake Tahoe, look for osprey, red-tail hawk and bald eagles.

Or have mountain chickadee eating out of your hand on “chickadee ridge,” a short hike east of Nevada Highway 431 in Tahoe Meadows.

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World’s Best Selection of Chocolates, Candies & Gummies!

TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES

Ice Cream Fountain • Sodas • Gifts • Imports

A neighborhood gathering spot to discover boutique wines and craft beers from the Sierra Foothills www.tahoewinecollective.com Hours: Sun–Thurs 2–8 pm, Fri & Sat noon–10 pm

UPSTAIRS AT THE BOATWORKS MALL FREE PARKING 760 NORTH LAKE BLVD. TAHOE CITY TAHOECITYCHOCOLATES.COM

THE ULTIMATE WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE IN TAHOE THE ULTIMATE WATERFRONT RESERVATIONS AT WWW.JAKESTAHOE.COM DINING EXPERIENCE IN* 530-583-0188 TAHOE

RESERVATIONS AT WWW.JAKESTAHOE.COM * 530-583-0188

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Everything Your Dog Needs for Land & Lake Fun!

Tahoe City

Open 6 days a week • Monday-Saturday 11 am–5 pm In the Cobblestone Center next to Pineapple

530.584.0220

SUMMERTIME LIVE MUSIC

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TAHOE INFO

SCAN THIS CODE FOR “8 GREAT TAHOE BEACHES” ON YOUTUBE.

Head for the Water Beaches

Tahoe’s beaches are narrow this summer due to high lake levels following strong winter snowfalls.

But many lovely meetings of sand and water can still to be found around Tahoe’s 72-mile shore.

Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park is a scenic gem with 3 unique beaches. However, its parking lots fills quickly on most summer mornings, which then requires taking a shuttle from Incline Village or trekking down a three-mile bike path to reach the park. In South Tahoe, wide Nevada Beach and Baldwin Beach are both good bets. Nearby, Pope Beach was recently named one of America’s top beaches, but high water this summer will make it harder to find a secluded, sandy spot.

On the North Shore, Kings Beach, Moon Dunes and Tahoe City’s Commons Beach have a variety of sand, lawns, playgrounds and shallow water. Tahoe’s West Shore has two outstanding beaches. Meeks Bay is a sheltered cover and a large beach and calm water for swimming and paddling, but requires an entrance fee. The beaches at D.L. Bliss State Park are among Tahoe’s prettiest. Near Truckee, West End Beach at Donner Lake features large lawns and shade trees and shallow, warm water.

Turn to page 16 for more information.

Dog Beaches

Dog-friendly beaches include Kiva Beach in South Tahoe, Zephyr Cove on East Shore, Coon Street Beach in Kings Beach, Patton Beach in Carnelian Bay or Hurricane Bay on the West Shore. Don’t be surprised to see locals bring their dogs to other of Tahoe’s beaches, but that is often against local regulations and fines are given out.

Swimming

The lake is chilly in the early summer, but the surface temperature warms to near 70 degrees Fahrenheit by August and September. The warmest water is found in the shallows off South Tahoe’s beaches, Sand Harbor, Kings Beach and Tahoe Vista. Put on swim goggles or mask and snorkel to enjoy Tahoe’s water clarity. The lower Truckee River also has clear cool water and numerous swimming holes.

Paddling Lake Tahoe’s scenic shoreline. COURTESY PHOTO

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TAHOE INFO

The water is dangerously cold in spring and early summer so always have a leash attached to your board, even close to shore. Winds can come up quickly in the afternoon and become strong enough that an offshore breeze might be too strong for you to make headway against, with the nearest shore then over 12 miles away!

Water fun at Kings Beach. COURTESY PHOTO

Paddling

Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters—every shade of blue from near-black to turquoise—have a magnetic attraction for paddleboarders and kayakers. There are multiple Tahoe marinas that offer launching and rentals. Many of the most popular beach locations also have rentals and convenient parking.

East Shore’s mix of undeveloped shoreline, numerous coves and huge granite boulders make it a favorite adventure, accessed from Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

Or paddle past lakefront estates from Tahoe City’s Commons Beach. Another epic paddle is the journey into iconic Emerald Bay, accessed from Baldwin Beach in the south or Meeks Bay to the north. Go to LakeTahoeWaterTrail.org for information about multi-day paddles around the lake.

Pay close attention to wind and weather forecasts before venturing onto Lake Tahoe. This is NOT your normal lake!

Waterskiing & Wakeboarding

On a calm summer morning, Lake Tahoe’s surface mirrors the blue sky and green peaks, creating waterskiing nirvana.

West Shore locations are often the most wind protected, including launches from Homewood and Tahoe City marinas. Other lakes that are often ideal for waterskiing or wakeboarding are Donner Lake and Fallen Leaf Lake.

Instruction in waterskiing, wakeboarding and wakesurfing are available from many rental services, with rental wetsuits also available.

Check weather forecasts carefully if launching your own ski boat. Afternoon winds can grow gusty quickly on Lake Tahoe, building waves on the opposite shore that can overwhelm a small boat. It’s also best to not dive headfirst into Tahoe’s depths off a boat in the middle of the lake. Even in summer, Tahoe’s water can be extremely cold, literally stealing-your-breath-away six feet down. Tragically, the lake records drowning victims most every year. Be smart and safe.

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Powerboat Rentals Service Department ~ Fuel ~ Shopping and Dining

20 to 23ft. • Up to 300 hp • Canopies • Up to 10-person capacity

700 North Lake Blvd.

Hwy 28 ~ Tahoe City, CA

530.583.1039 TAHOECITYMARINA.COM CON V LOC ENIENT ATIO N!

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- KAYAKS - PADDLEBOARDS OPEN DAILY 8 AM-6 PM 7 DAYS PER WEEK MAY-OCTOBER

highsierrawaterskiing.com At Homewood High & Dry Marina 7 miles south of Tahoe City • 5190 West Lake Blvd.

530-525-1214

1004 Lakeview Avenue • South Lake Tahoe, CA www.SouthTahoeKayak.com SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 25

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TAHOE INFO

Boating & Floating Speedboats & Jet Skis

Rental speedboats, jet skis, kayaks and paddleboards are available at marinas surrounding Lake Tahoe, including in Tahoe City, Sunnyside, Homewood, Tahoe Keys, Ski Run and Tahoe Vista.

Water sports rentals are also found near many hotels and lakefront restaurants, including at Kings Beach Recreation Area. Parasailing is available on both North and South Shores.

Pay attention to weather forecasts and wind direction when planning any boating trip on Tahoe.

Cruises

Large cruise boats with both indoor and outdoor seating, beverages and food, are an enjoyable way to experience Lake Tahoe in any weather. The M.S. Dixie in Zephyr Cove and Tahoe Gal in Tahoe City depart on multiple daily trips. Cruise on an historic yacht with Tahoe Tastings. Sailing charters are available in Tahoe City, Tahoe Keys and Carnelian Bay.

Riding Rivers

The lower Truckee River from Tahoe City to River Ranch features family-friendly, moderate whitewater and is popular with all ages. Two commercial rafting operations serve this stretch—book ahead.

If you launch in your own inner-tube or raft, you’ll want to leave a car near River Ranch, but not in their parking lot unless you are dining or staying there. More parking is available in Tahoe City.

From Truckee, inner-tubers launch near the junction of Highway 89 and West River Street and float to Legacy Trail Bridge or Glenshire Bridge. Portions of the upper Truckee River near Myers can also offer gentle enjoyment for inner-tubers but beware of obstacles on the float to Tahoe Keys.

If you’re seeking greater whitewater thrills, stretches of the Truckee River Canyon between Truckee and Verdi feature Class 3 and 4 rapids. Tahoe Whitewater Tours (see page 29) run commercial day trips on the Truckee River as well as Carson River and forks of the American River.

Fishing Charters Rental speed boats allow exploring of Tahoe’s shoreline. COURTESY PHOTO

Charter fishing boats leave before dawn from marinas around Lake Tahoe most every summer morning, often seeking large, deep-water Mackinaw Trout. Book well in advance. Fly fishing spots dot both the upper and lower Truckee River, as well as the Little Truckee River to the north and Carson River, south of Tahoe.

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CLEAN. DRAIN. DRY.

HULL OF A RIDE. LET’S CONTINUE TO PROTECT IT.

Before arriving at a Lake Tahoe watercraft inspection station, remember to

CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY. A friendly, certified inspector will check your boat for aquatic invasive species and get you on the water. For the latest information on inspection locations and appointments, visit:

TahoeBoatInspections.com 888-824-6267

S

r

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530.583.3342 | Next to Fanny Bridge in Tahoe City WWW.TAHOEBRIDGETENDER.COM SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 27

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TAHOE INFO

Go Pedaling Bike Paths

Smoothly paved and separated from vehicle traffic, lovely bike paths are found throughout our region. South Lake Tahoe’s network includes fun rides to several beaches. Incline Village’s path to Sand Harbor has stunning views and accesses several small coves. Tahoe City is the center of over 19 miles of connected bike paths, including the popular route along the Truckee River to Olympic Valley and a 12-mile stretch down the West Shore to Sugar Pine Point State Park and Meeks Bay. Truckee’s network of paths includes the Legacy Trail, a 4.4-mile ride along the Truckee River.

Mountain Biking

The Northern Sierra is a mountain biking mecca of single-track and fire road fun, including newly built routes that curve and flow down mountain sides. Flume Trail is the most iconic Lake Tahoe single-track, a breathtaking trek along mountain ridges and cliff side that follows an old lumber flume. Turn to the map on page 16 for more information on popular trails.

Road Biking

For riders at ease cycling on narrow mountain roads, this region is full of challenges. Chief among them is the infamous Death Ride circuit, winding over steep mountain passes south of Tahoe. Or try the 4,400-foot ascent from Reno over Hwy. 431 that leads to a 2,500-foot descent to Incline Village. Less strenuous, but still a belt-notch Tahoe ride, is the 72-mile journey around the lake (turned into a “century” with an out-and-back to Truckee). The lakeshore highway has mostly singlefile shoulder but also stretches of little to no shoulder on East Shore and Emerald Bay. Highway 89 from Olympic Valley to Truckee has wider bike lanes and connects to a scenic 3-mile, 1200 vertical foot climb up Old Highway 40 and over the Sierra Crest.

Bike Parks Only ride mountain bikes on established trails. COURTESY PHOTO

Truckee has an excellent bike park with beginner to expert jump lines. Incline Village and South Lake Tahoe have public bike parks with pump-tracks and beginner to intermediate flow lines.

Boreal Mountain and Northstar California bike parks have numerous features, single-track, and ski lifts to carry you and your bike back up the mountain.

28 SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

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Join us for the best day of your summer rafting on the Truckee, Carson and American Rivers!!!

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Email: Info@GoWhitewater.com Social: @TahoeWhitewater

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Check out our website for: – River Trips & Reservations

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TAHOE INFO Heavenly gondola has unsurpassed views. ISTOCK.COM/ALEXANDRE ROCHA

three additional public links.

In North Tahoe, historic 9-hole circuits are found at Tahoe City Golf Course and Old Brockway in Kings Beach.Incline Village has two beautiful courses. Truckee and Northstar boost seven courses, including the Jack Nicklausdesigned Old Greenwood and Peter Jacobsondesigned Grey’s Crossing.

Miniature Golf

More Fun

Find mini-golf fun at Kings Beach Miniature Golf or Magic Carpet Golf locations in South Lake Tahoe and Carnelian Bay. Heavenly Village lays out summer-only holes on its plaza.

Scenic Rides

Heavenly’s gondola travels from South Lake Tahoe straight up the mountainside to spectacular views of Lake Tahoe, trails and rides. Palisades Tahoe’s large aerial tram travels up 2,000 vertical feet from Olympic Valley to the resort’s High Camp lodge.

Golf

Edgewood Tahoe at Stateline is the “Pebble Beach” of the mountains, site of nationally televised American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. South Tahoe has three

Museums & History

Tahoe museums include Donner Emigrant Trail Museum outside Truckee, Gatekeepers Museum in Tahoe City, Tahoe Environmental Research Center in Incline Village, and Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum, South Lake Tahoe.

Nearby, Virginia City is a living museum with well-preserved downtown, steam train, and tours of the historic Comstock Lode mines. The Nevada Museum and Nevada Railroad Museum are in Carson City. Reno boosts the Nevada Museum of Art and National Auto Museum.

Tee-up at the historic Tahoe City Golf Course. Enjoy golf with a view, bocce ball, dining at Café Zenon, walking distance to downtown Tahoe City and Commons Beach. JOIN US!

Family-friendly | Affordable | Fun Oldest Golf Course in Lake Tahoe

251 NORTH LAKE BLVD, TAHOE CITY (behind Plumas Bank)

Book your tee time or private event | 530.583.1516 | tahoecitygolf.com 30 SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

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55 s

Years B In u sin es

Est. 1970

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MAY

17-18 Chili on the Comstock and Craft Brew Tour 24 V&T Steam Train Season Kick-Off 24 Memorial Day Celebration of Heroes Parade

JUNE 6-8 21

Street Vibrations Spring Rally Kids Fair at the Historic Fourth Ward School Museum

JULY 4

4th of July Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza

AUGUST

16-17 Art Walk on the Comstock Craft Fair 22-23 Virginia City Motorcycle Roundup 29-1 Heritage Civil War Days and Battle Trains

SEPTEMBER 1 5-7

Labor Day Parade International Camel & Ostrich Races

October

HauntoberTM - All Month 4-5 World Championship Outhouse Races 25 The Spirits Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl 31 Hauntober Costume Contest, Parade and Safe Trick or Treating

Sparks I-80

Reno

NOVEMBER 1 11

Nevada Statehood Ball Veterans Day Parade

December

North Lake Tahoe

580

Washoe City

Virginia City

Christmas on the Comstock - All Month 5 Community Tree Lighting 5 601 Christmas Concert at Piper’s Opera House 6 Grinch Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl Carson City 6 Parade of Lights and Magical Christmas Fireworks Show 50 13 Parade of Lights and South Christmas Drone Show Lake Tahoe

Dayton

395

A LL EV ENT DATES SUBJECT TO CH A NGE . V IEW OUR COMPLETE C A LENDA R ONLINE FOR DATES, TIMES A ND DETA IL S.

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