Things to Do & See in North Lake Tahoe: A Guide

Lake Tahoe is a world-famous tourist destination, and for good reason! It offers stunning natural scenery, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a wide variety of restaurants and nightlife options. In this guide, we will discuss some of the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, we’re sure you’ll find something new to enjoy!

Love being on the water? North Lake Tahoe is the place for you. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, speedboat, sailboat, or book a Tahoe Gal Cruise to experience the largest Alpine lake in North America. Action Water Sports of Incline Village and Full Throttle Tahoe are both top rental companies for everything that floats (and some things for land!), and they even offer guided tours and wakeboarding and waterskiing lessons.

Want to get your adrenaline going? Check out Tahoe Whitewater Tours! Would you rather just float? Truckee River Raft Company offers a day on the river safe for all ages.

If you want to relax on the shore, look no further than Meeks Bay, Sand Harbor, Burnt Cedar Beach, Commons Beach Park, Secret Cove Beach, Kings Beach, or Incline Beach!

Looking for unbeatable views? North Lake Tahoe is home to miles upon miles of pristine hiking, biking, and running trails. You’ll experience spectacular views regardless of which trail you choose, just make sure you check the weather and check snow reports before heading out!

• Vista Bike Trail
• Mt. Judah Loop Trail
• Shirley Lake Trail
• Eagle Falls, Eagle Rock, & Eagle Lake Trails
• Truckee River Bike Trail and Legacy Trail
• Tahoe Meadows Trail
• Martis Peak Fire Lookout Trail

Not sure where to start? Inspiration Point Vista is arguably the best view of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay. Or head to Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, which has 12,000 acres and 50 miles of hiking to choose from. Want a view without the hike? Donner Pass has an unbeatable view of Donner Lake and Truckee from Rainbow Bridge, plus you’ll experience a historic landmark of the Sierras.

Planning a trip during winter? Lake Tahoe is one of the most famous ski destinations in America, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Sierra Nevada mountains provide a majestic backdrop for any winter activity at Lake Tahoe. Visitors can partake in skiing, snowboarding, and even ice skating during their stay! Pristine ski resorts include Northstar, Boreal, Homewood Mountain, Diamond Peak, and Alpine Meadows. If skiing and snowboarding aren’t your forte but you still want to experience the snow, North Lake Tahoe also has snowshoe and snowmobile tours!

Try something new with the whole family at Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park or Palisades Tahoe Ropes Course. Or, try climbing for the first time with Tahoe Via Ferrata, a safe and fun opportunity to experience world-class climbing!

See even more views in North Lake by helicopter, aerial tram, or even horseback through Piping Rock Equestrian Center.

Go golfing at gorgeous courses like Coyote Moon Golf Course, or go putting at Kings Beach Mini Golf.

After a full day of adventure, wind down at Historic Downtown Truckee and check out Truckee River Winery or Alibi Ale Works Brewery.

If you have an appreciation for the arts, there are plenty of options for you, too! North Lake has several galleries and history to appreciate:

• Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
• Truckee Gallery
• Tahoe City Visitor Center
• Mark Twain Cultural Center
• Old Truckee Jail Museum
• Art Obsession Studio
• Kid Zone Museum
• Truckee Railroad Museum
• Blue Wolf Studios
• Gatekeepers Museum
• Donner Memorial State Park
• Emigrant Trail Museum
• Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

If you need assistance planning your visit, let the Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau help you choose the destinations that will suit you best!

There’s something for everyone at North Lake Tahoe, and we want you to make the most of your experience visiting one of the most beautiful places on earth!