South Lake Tahoe: 10 Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures for Every Traveler
[Editor’s Note: The Lake Tahoe region, like many parts of the U.S. and the world, is still feeling the aftershocks of the COVID‑19 pandemic. Travel restrictions and temporary business closures may apply. Even if you can’t visit right now, you can use this guide to plan and dream about future trips.]
When indoor spaces feel cramped, South Lake Tahoe offers an expansive outdoor playground. From world‑class skiing to gentle lakeside strolls, the area delivers year‑round adventure for athletes, casual hikers, and sun‑seekers alike.
Outdoorsy Things to Do in South Lake Tahoe
Spending an entire day outdoors is not only possible but often preferable in South Lake Tahoe. The following activities let you hike, bike, paddle, ski, sled, ride, dine, and even sleep under the stars—all without leaving the great outdoors.
Eating and Drinking
Enjoy cuisine without the constraints of indoor air. Patio diners, waterfront decks, and dockside lawns provide fresh lake views and fresh air. Artemis Lakefront Café offers Mediterranean dishes paired with panoramic vistas, while Jimmy’s Restaurant delivers fine dining complete with fire pits.
Craft beer lovers can sip locally brewed ales at Cold Water Brewery & Grill, Hangar Taproom and Bottleshop, Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and Restaurant, Lake Tahoe AleWorx, or South of North. Each venue features spacious outdoor seating, heat lamps, and sometimes live music or fire pits.
South Lake Tahoe Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Heavenly Mountain Resort stands as the region’s flagship ski destination. Located in Heavenly Village, it boasts 97 runs, 4,800 skiable acres, 3,500 vertical feet, and two terrain parks. Skiers can glide between California and Nevada on the same slopes. Sierra At Tahoe and Kirkwood Mountain Resort are within a 45‑minute drive for additional options.
Cross‑Country Skiing
Cross‑country enthusiasts can follow the legacy of 1850s mail carrier Snowshoe Thompson. Groomed trails are available at Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina and Lake Tahoe Community College’s Nordic Center. Kirkwood Mountain Resort offers further groomed routes, while Bijou Park, South Lake’s bike paths, and Tallac Historic Site provide a more independent experience.
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Tubing and Sledding
Snow tubing and sledding bring simple joy without expensive gear. Hansen’s Resort and Adventure Mountain provide groomed trails with rentals, while Sawmill Pond and Kahle Park offer free, family‑friendly fun.
South Lake Tahoe Hiking
Lake Tahoe’s shoreline is dotted with iconic hikes, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging ascents. Trails that begin within South Lake Tahoe provide scenic water views, whereas more remote paths require a car and a reliable map. The Desolation Wilderness offers granite landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife that captivate even seasoned hikers.
Biking Around South Lake Tahoe
The area’s bike shops hint at a thriving cycling culture. Mountain‑bike trails such as the Saxon Creek Trail (a.k.a. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride) and the Flume Trail challenge experienced riders, while the Pope‑Baldwin Bike Path and Rabe Meadow Bike Path offer paved routes ideal for families.
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Horseback Riding
Guided trail rides from Zephyr Cove Resort Stables let riders of all ages explore forested paths with lake vistas. Camp Richardson Corral offers rides for six‑year‑olds and older, including pony rides and winter sleigh rides.
Boating
South Lake Tahoe is the ideal launch point for exploring the 191‑square‑mile alpine lake. Visitors can launch personal boats, rent vessels from Camp Richardson or Lakeside Marina, or enjoy guided cruises such as those offered by Camp Richardson or the M.S. Dixie II from Zephyr Cove Marina.
Lake Tahoe Water Sports
While Lake Tahoe’s water remains chilly even in summer, a range of activities keeps the lake lively. Jet skis, kayaks, stand‑up paddleboards, parasailing, and pedal boats are available through local outfitters. For a unique experience, try Clearly Tahoe’s transparent kayaks to view the crystal‑clear depths.
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Bonus: Sleeping
For those who wish to extend their outdoor adventure into the night, South Lake Tahoe offers several campgrounds. Options range from family‑friendly sites near a swimming pool and sports fields to tent and RV camps with full hookups. Camp Richardson features a marina, stables, and eateries, while Campground by the Lake provides central access. Additional campsites are available at Fallen Leaf Lake and Emerald Bay State Park.
