Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide Summer/Fall 2026

LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE | SUMMER/FALL 2026

WHERE TO GO BEACHES, BOATS, HIKES, PEDALIING, PADDLING & MORE COMMUNITY EXPERTS

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

|

bartonhealth.org

|

In partnership with Tahoe Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physicians

WELCOME

2 5 YE ARS SELLING

LAKE TAHOE'S FINES T PROPERTIES

David Gemme 530.277.8881 david@gemmegroup.com CA DRE 01371048 | NV S.0179228 Copyright© Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty 2026. Based upon information that we consider reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete; square footage is an estimate only. ©MMXXVI 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.

WE WELCOME THE OPPORTUNIT Y T O H E L P YO U O R S O M E O N E YO U L O V E SUMMER/FALL 2025 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 5

WELCOME

Contents 8

Welcome!

Finding the perfect balance.

10

Directory Businesses and Services.

13

Top Summer Attractions Scenery, history, beaches and parks.

16

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

19

Community Experts Regional Real Estate experts.

21

Take a Walk Strolls, hikes and dog walks.

22

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: Sunset from Sand Harbor, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON Left: Lupine bloom, Tahoe City, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON© LAKE TAHOE VISITOR GUIDE SUMMER/FALL 2026 Publisher & Editor Chaco Mohler Art Director Kaersten Swain Distribution Mitch Landaburu Published by C2M Media LLC P.O. Box 5897 Tahoe City, CA 96145 Inquiries: chaco@c2m.media Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide, ©2026 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.

6 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

SECTION

WELCOME

Tahoe’s Perfect Balance Welcome to Lake Tahoe’s summer mountain playground!

There are more ways to enjoy yourself here than hours in a week. Tahoe has both National Park-worthy scenery and full variety of man-made fun, whether it’s top-notch resorts and restaurants, or hundreds of miles of maintained mountain bike single-track. Or all of the above.

A Tahoe vacation is bespoke—pick from all the outdoor and indoor fun available, and communities large and small, to create a perfect holiday balance: relaxation, renewal, quality time with others, and some excitement thrown in to spice it up.

Finding balance here also means respecting Tahoe’s natural environment. Litter can end up in the lake and rivers, as can pet waste. You can help “Keep Tahoe Blue” (and eliminate some stress too) by riding FREE door-to-door micro-transit in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee (page 11), and from Stateline to South Lake Tahoe. Or cycle to the beach on a bike path through the woods.

8 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

Infinity Pool, PHOTO BY MIKE EADINGTON©

We share our forests with large creatures, so respect for Tahoe’s wildlife is also advised. Don’t leave food in a parked vehicle, especially overnight—black bears have an incredible sense of smell and are adept at breaking into cars. Garbage bags left unattended outdoors are quick pickings for bears and ravens. If you’re lucky enough to see one, know that black bears are not naturally aggressive, but keep your distance and appreciate the wonder of the moment.

We hope these pages help guide your journey to many wonderful moments during your time at Tahoe, “The Lake of the Sky.”

TAHOE CITY GOLF COURSE Family-friendly • Affordable • Fun

Play Lake Tahoe’s Oldest Golf Course With lake views from every hole, our welcoming 9-hole course is perfect for all ages and skill levels.

251 North Lake Blvd Tahoe City

Book Your Tee Time 530.583.1516 tahoecitygolf.com SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 9

DIRECTORY

BUSINESSES & SERVICES DINING

SHOPS & RENTALS

BRIDGETENDER TAVERN & GRILL 30 American tahoebridgetender.com FAT CAT BAR & GRILL 12 American fatcatrestaurants.com JASON’S BEACHSIDE GRILL 23 American jasonsbeachsidegrille.com RIVER RANCH 14 Iconic Bar & Restaurant riverranchlodge.com SHADYSIDE LOUNGE 30 Bar & Modern Mexican Cuisine tahoeshadyside.com TAHOE NATIONAL BREWING COMPANY 29 Brewery & Restaurant tahoenational.beer WOLFDALE’S CUISINE UNIQUE 24 Seasonal Asian & Californian wolfdales.com

THE BACK COUNTRY 27 Rentals & Repairs & Gear thebackcountry.net BLUESTONE 25 Jewelry & Wine bluestonetahoe.com EADINGTON GALLERY 31 Fine Art Photography theeadingtongallery.com GEARED FOR GAMES / MIND PLAY 14 Games, Puzzles & Toys HOT DIGGITY DOG & CAT 31 Pet supplies & toys, specialty items PIPER J GALLERY 18 Abstracts, Landscapes, Sculpture piperjgallery.com OLYMPIC VALLEY SKI & BIKE 27 Rentals, Repairs & Gear thebackcountry.net THE POTLATCH 32 Jewelry, Gifts & Clothing potlatchlaketahoe.com TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES 23 Sweets & Ice Cream tahoecitychocolates.com

ACTIVITIES HIGH SIERRA WATERSKI SCHOOL Lessons & Rentals highsierrawaterskiing.com TAHOE ADVENTURE COMPANY Tours & Rentals tahoeadventurecompany.com TAHOE CITY GOLF COURSE Scenic 9-Hole Community Course tcpud.org/golf TAHOE REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCY Invasive Species Boat Inspections

23 15 9 27

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

tahoetastings.com TAHOE WHITEWATER TOURS 29 River Rafting Tours gowhitewater.com U.C. DAVIS TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER 8 Science museum tahoesciencecenter.com VIRGINIA CITY 12 Authentic Old West Town & Tours visitvirginiacitynv.com

BARTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Inpatient & Outpatient Services bartonhealth.org INCLINE VILLAGE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Emergency, Specialty, Walk-In Clinic Inclinehospital.com TAHOE FOREST HEALTH CARE SYSTEM Inpatient & Outpatient Services tfhd.com

3 14

VISITOR SERVICES

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

15 9

5 2 19 20 19 20 20

TOWN 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

530.581.6900 gotahoenorth.com TAHOE SOUTH VISITORS CENTER

775.588.4591 tahoesouth.com

10 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

4

REAL ESTATE GEMME GROUP AT SIERRA SOTHEBY’S Lake Tahoe Luxury Real Estate gemmegroup.com SIERRA SOTHEBY’S INTERATIONAL REALTY Tahoe & Truckee Luxury Leader sierrasothebys.com SABRINA BELLECI TEAM sabrina@insideincline.com SANDY DOBRONTE sandy.deobronte@bhhsdrysdale.com JEREMY JACOBSON Jeremy.jacobson@sothebyrealty.com LAWRENCE REALTY info@lawrencerealty.com TYLER O’NEAL tyleronealtahoe@gmail.com

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

MEDICAL

Get Closer, Faster!

SM

Your Air Taxi to the West

Socata TBM

GARYAIR IS AN FAA CERTIFICATED AIR T AXI #6 GTA731M

RIDE FREE Connecting North Lake Tahoe & Truckee

TART Connect On-demand microtransit.

Park & Ride Hassle-free event shuttles.

Ryan Salm

TahoeTruckeeTransit.com

Connecting North Lake Tahoe & Truckee

Michael Okimoto

TART Bus Hourly regional routes.

Ryan Salm

s

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

C ONVENIENT, C OMFORTABLE AND A FFORDABLE A IR TRAVEL

SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 11

12 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

FEATURES

The beaches at Sand Harbor live up to its name., COURTESY PHOTO Below: Emerald Bay, PHOTO BY MKE EADINGTON©

Top Summer Attractions Scenery, history, beaches and parks 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 scenic three mile bike trail from Incline Village.

Emerald Bay One of the west’s most photographed locations, 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.

SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 13

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. Shopping options are numerous in the village and nearby streets.

Truckee

Truckee’s authentic “Old West” downtown, bisected by the Transcontinental Railroad, has an entertaining variety of quality restaurants, unique shops, galleries and bars. 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.

Owner Jessica Smey

Photo by Pablo Narvaez

ICONIC LODGE, BAR & RESTAURANT

Alpine Meadows Road & Hwy 89

riverranchlodge.com | 530.583.4264 Follow us on 14 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

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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 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 15

HIKES

West End Beach Donner Lake

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5

1

89

Alpine Meadows

Palisades 4 Tahoe

Olympic Valley

Everline Resort

Tinker Knob

Donner Memorial State Park

80 8

89

uc

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Tahoe City

80

Easy Moderate Strenuous Strenuous Strenuous Moderate Strenuous Moderate

Northstar

Tahoe City

1

Tahoe Vista

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

ACCESS

Mayberry Park

il Tra

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

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/

Rim

T ru c k e e

Reno

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

ho

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Northstar

Easy Easy Easy Easy

DIFFICULTY

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

oe Ta h

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

iv er

R

COMMUNITIES

L Tr

6

1

fic

ci Pa Desolation Wilderness

Crest Mt. Tallac

12

13

Fallen Leaf Lake

Nevada Beach

Zephyr Cove Resort Marla Bay Resort

10

Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe

Trail

7

C

50

A

LI

N

IA

A

N

D

R

VA

FO

E

Genoa Peak

Freel Peak

Heavenly Mountain

Stateline

Bijou Municipal

Tahoe Paradise

50

4

1

Edgewood Tahoe 207

Cave Rock

Glenbrook

Regan Kiva & Pope Beach Beaches Tallac Historic Site

Baldwin Beach

Bliss State Park

Meeks Bay Resort

Sugarpine Point State Park

89 Emerald Bay

11

Tahoma

Lake Tahoe

Trail

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST

Ellis Peak

Homewood

4

3

Rim

CALIFORNIA

Granite Chief Wilderness

5

State Park

Tahoe

IVER ST.

RIVERSID

WEST RI

E DR.

EAST R VER ST.

PASS RD .

D ON N ER

CHURC H ST.

D ST.

T. OM S

JI BB O

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 the recently replaced “Fanny Bridge” to watch the giant trout below. Bike paths and sidewalks lead from Gatekeeper Museum throughout this scenic town of unique shops, restaurants and “watering-holes.”

FIRST SATURDAY 4–7pm SPRING ST.

June 6 · July 4 August 1 · September 5 October 3 · November 7 Olympic Valley, Palisades Tahoe

Look for Flags

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.

Meet Local Artists

DO

H H IG

.

ST

Enjoy Truckee’s Cultural District .

ASS RD N NER P

ST.

Grab a Map H IGH

HIGH ST.

BRIDGE S T.

18 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

Tallac Historic Site & Beach Parks

Historic mansions and three white sand beaches on Tahoe’s southeast corner are connected by bike trail with South Lake Tahoe. The Tallac Historic Site’s lawns and paths extend down a stretch of shoreline. Baldwin, Kiva and Pope beaches have shallow water and warmer swimming on sunny days.

REAL ESTATE

Community Experts

INCLINE VILLAGE

Experienced and knowledgeable guides to the Lake Tahoe region’s vibrant and varied real estate i

r

89

431

Mt. Rose

80

West End Beach Donner Lake

Northstar Tinker Knob

Olympic Valley

Reno

Truckee

2

Donner Memorial State Park

50

267 2

89

58

Incline Village

W

1

28 Kings Beach/

1

44

Tahoe Vista

3 4 Tr

uc

ke

e R iver

Tahoe City

Homewood Ellis Peak

Tahoma

Sabrina Belleci Team Casa Tua | Inside Incline 775-354-9745

50

Lake Tahoe

Glenbrook

Cave Rock

Genoa Peak

89

C A LI F O R N I A

Desolation Wilderness

ELDORADO NATIONAL FOREST

207

Emerald Bay

5 Mt. Tallac

Fallen Leaf Lake

South Lake Tahoe

Stateline

N

50

EV

A

D

A

sabrina@insideincline.com www.insideincline.com

Real estate is more than transactions; it’s where your life happens, the memories you create, the legacy you build and the lifestyle you choose. We created CasaTua because we believe discerning buyers, sellers and second-home owners deserve an experience that matches the quality of the homes they love.

IA

NORTH TAHOE

Freel Peak

2

Jeremy Jacobson 530.448.1590 jeremy.jacobson@sothebysrealty.com Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty

Jeremy exudes experience and expertise with proven processes for buyers and sellers that attain excellent results. With 27 years in the Tahoe region, intrinsic knowledge, experience and relationships paired with stellar marketing and negotiation skills create success.

SUMMER/FALL SUMMER/FALL 2026 2026 || Lake LakeTahoe TahoeVisitor Visitor Guide Guide 19 19

REAL TAHOEESTATE INFO

Community Experts

SOUTH SHORE

NORTH TAHOE

5

3

Lawrence Realty 530.583.1529

Sandy Dobronte 775.857.7777

info@LawrenceRealty.com

Sandy.dobronte@bhhsdrysdale.com

Lawrence Realty is a family owned and operated business deeply rooted in Olympic Valley, also serving the surrounding communities. With over 90 years of real estate experience, Larry, Chiara and Ron each contribute their own strengths to this dynamic, well-rounded team. Strong local presence.

International reach. Utmost service to all clientele.

With over 20 years of experience in luxury property management and the fine art industry, I bring expertise and attention to detail to Berkshire Hathaway’s proven market strategy. Nothing can replace a personal connection with clients and I work closely with them to establish and share our wonderful Lake Tahoe lifestyle.

NORTH TAHOE

4

Tyler O’Neal 530.308.5385 TylerOnealTahoe@gmail.com

With over two decades in the Tahoe market, Tyler O’Neal represents luxury real estate, grounded in local tradition.

As a second-generation broker, he offers unmatched insight into lakefront, golf, and ski properties across Truckee and North Lake Tahoe, backed by O’Neal Brokers, a family-owned business serving the region for more than 50 years.

20 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

TAHOE INFO

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 on the river. Relatively level dirt trails are found at Sugar Pine Point State Park, Donner State Park, Meeks Bay Resort and Washoe Meadows State Park.

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 leash are welcome on Tahoe’s bike trails, and on leash 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 Washoe Meadows State Park.

PHOTO BY CHACO MOHLER

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

SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 21

TAHOE INFO

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

Head for the Water Beaches

Lovely meetings of sand and water can still be found around Tahoe’s 72-mile shore. Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park is a scenic gem with 3 unique beaches. It’s parking lots fill quickly on most summer mornings however, which then requires taking a shuttle from Incline Village or 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.

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 cove 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 a map of beach locations.

Dog Beaches

Dog-friendly beaches include Kiva Beach in South Tahoe, Zephyr Cove on East Shore, Racoon 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 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 degree 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 over Tahoe’s clear water is a delight!

COURTESY PHOTO

22 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

THE FOR LY! FUN E FAMI OL H W

H

CON V LOC ENIENT ATIO N!

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

IGH SIERRA

WAT E R S K I S C H O O L 49th Season of Operation!

COMPLETE SKI SCHOOL & WAKEBOARD INSTRUCTION • wakesurfing • water skiing • wakeboarding - US Coast Guard Licensed - AWSA Certified Instructors - Everything Included - All Ages & Abilities - Pro Shop and Sales - Rentals and Repairs

Ice Cream Fountain • Sodas • Gifts • Imports

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT RENTALS - SEA•DOO (up to 3 passengers) 4 stroke - TRPA approved!

- 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

Visit the UC Davis Tahoe Science Center

TM

Discover what is unique about Lake Tahoe with short films, science exhibits, and hands-on activities.

Tours available Tuesday–Friday (and Saturdays by appointment only) Recommend ages 8 years and up

Reservations required 201 Country Club Drive Incline Village, Nevada

TahoeScienceCenter.com

SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 23

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!

Every shade of water toys are for rent at many Tahoe beaches. COURTESY PHOTO

Paddling

Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters—every shade of blue and 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!

24 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

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.

WINNER

BLUESTONE JEWELRY

BLUESTONE JEWELRY & WINE

495 N Lake Blvd, Suite 170 530-581-4298

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

TAHOE CITY

TRUCKEE

BluestoneTahoe.com

SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 25

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

Cruise boats with 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 and enjoy fine wine on the water. 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 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.

26 SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide

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SUMMER/FALL 2026 | Lake Tahoe Visitor Guide 27

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 There are mountain bike trails for all abilities at Tahoe.

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.

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TAHOE INFO Edgewood is home to the annual American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. COURTESY PHOTO

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.

More Fun 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

Miniature Golf

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.

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.

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55 s

Years B In u sin es

Est. 1970

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