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5 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Lake Tahoe – An Insider’s Guide
Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and as the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is also synonymous with outdoor adventure. From paddle boarding or jet skiing on its crystal clear waters to experiencing the soft powder at one of its world-class ski resorts, or hiking along the winding, mountainside trails that lead from its shoreline in all directions, its abundant outdoor activities mean that Lake Tahoe is the perfect year-round vacation destination.
Located just 45 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, it’s also a breeze to get to. But there’s plenty more to uncover in Lake Tahoe — activities that may be unfamiliar even to people who are repeat visitors to the lake and the beautiful communities that lie on and around its 72 miles of shoreline.
Here is an insider's guide, five things you didn’t know you could do you could do when you visit Lake Tahoe:
1. Climb aboard a luxury yacht
Emerald Bay, a short drive from South Lake Tahoe, is the centerpiece of Emerald Bay State Park and a stunning natural wonder of vibrant, deep green, blue, and turquoise waters against a backdrop of mountains and Lake Tahoe’s pine forested shores. There’s no better way to experience the striking scenery than on a cruise. KEY can organize a fabulous boat tour for you onboard a luxurious yacht decked out with a private lounge and fully-stocked bar.
Sit back and relax on plush indoor or outdoor seating for a two-hour cruise to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Tahoe. An expert local guide will tell fascinating facts and historical details about the only island on the lake, Fannette Island, the Scandinavian-inspired Vikingsholm shoreline mansion, and the tiered cascades of Eagle Falls, while you enjoy a glass of wine and keep an eye out for bald eagles and ospreys soaring overhead.
2: The sky's the limit
One of the most memorable ways to experience a destination is from the air, so there’s no better way to see Lake Tahoe than from a helicopter. The travel specialists at KEY can arrange a helicopter tour with the best local pilots for sweeping panoramic views from high over the lake’s waterfalls, pine forests, and rugged mountain peaks.
Choose between a Sand Harbor tour taking in some of Lake Tahoe’s most beautiful hidden beaches and bays along the lake’s east shoreline, or the Lakes and Waterfalls tour over Emerald Bay and a number of stunning lakes and cascades from South Lake Tahoe up to North Lake Tahoe. For unforgettable views of kaleidoscopic colors lighting up the sky as the sun dips behind the Sierra Nevadas, take an hour-long sunset helicopter ride.
3: Treat your inner foodie
Farm to table, boat to plate, whichever way it’s described, you know it’s going to be fresh. Lake Tahoe restaurants emphasizing locally-sourced meats, produce, and hand-caught seafood in their menus include upscale Manzanita at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe in the Northstar California resort. A lavish food lover’s experience awaits in its warm wood and stone mountain chic interior. Reserve a table to dine on seasonal organic ingredients gracing dishes from winter gnocchi with squash puree to seared scallops served with crispy prosciutto.
In South Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Restaurant in the Edgewood Tahoe resort, offers lake views as spectacular as its New American cuisine. Request a window-side table to savor sharing a board of house-cured charcuterie followed by Brandt Farm prime filet mignon or lobster angelotti served with shaved black truffle. It’s impossible to leave this Nevada-side restaurant hungry, and trust us; you won’t want to.
4: Off the beaten path
Venturing onto some of the hiking paths and trails crisscrossing the Lake Tahoe area when you visit is a must. Experience the region’s natural beauty fully on a guided wild forest day hike. Lace-up your walking boots and set out for a South Lake Tahoe trailhead ready for a four-mile hike along the celebrated Ridgeline Express trail system. Suitable for all ability levels and with bottled water and snacks included, the hike leads into backcountry forests, over rugged terrain and past streams and waterfalls. Take in expansive views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding granite peaks as you learn about the region’s natural history and geology from your expert local trail guide.
5: Find your slice of lakeside paradise
Lake Tahoe has more than 70 miles of shoreline winding around its clear blue waters, much of which consists of cliffs and craggy boulders. But the lake also has a number of public beaches with parking lots, restrooms, and paths leading down to golden sands and calm waters. You can enjoy summer days of swimming, watersports, and soaking up the sun at frequented spots including Kiva Beach, Baldwin Beach, Pope Beach, and Nevada Beach.
The Lake Tahoe shoreline is also home to small hidden beaches that you can spend a little time seeking out on your trip to Lake Tahoe. When you see pull-offs or small, safe places to stop along the highway, that’s your cue to park, get out and explore. Walk along the lakeside until you spot little trails leading down towards the lake where you will find secluded beaches with pristine sands and boulders washed by crystal clear waters that you can enjoy undisturbed.
To make sure you have all you need to enjoy your blissful day at the beach, let KEY arrange for a boxed lunch to be delivered to your Lake Tahoe home before you set off. Choose from a variety of delicious sandwiches and healthy salads, which come with an indulgent chocolate chip cookie, to complete your perfect lake adventure.
