Summer Recreation at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers some of the most beautiful sights and sounds in the world throughout the summer— so don't hesitate to take advantage of the gorgeous views and wonderful weather, whether you're sunning at the beaches , biking in the mountains, hiking on the trails, exploring the region on horseback , or climbing a sheer rock wall.

Beaches

Lake Tahoe has a multitude of scenic spots and beaches where you can have a picnic and barbecue, wander along the shoreline, get sand between your toes, wade in the cool water, bask in the sunshine and get a tan!

Take a look at the beaches around Lake Tahoe . All of the locations have picnic areas, firepits, and restrooms unless noted, and some locations have playgrounds, boat rentals, and boat ramps.

Biking 

Bicycling is a popular pastime for visitors to Lake Tahoe. If you are looking for a casual bicycle ride or have small children with you, there are a variety of designated paved bike paths and lanes in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Make some time to rent a bike and enjoy Tahoe's unmatched beauty from yet another perspective. You'll feel exhilarated and restore your sense of wonder with nature!

Mountain biking at Lake Tahoe is not a just a sport, it's a lifestyle! Bike paths, dirt roads, single tracks and bike parks abound around the lake. There are many scenic and mellow rides and plenty of steep, rocky precipices in the mountains. Some ski resorts have bike parks where you can buy a lift ticket, "ride" effortlessly to the summit and then careen your way down dusty ski trails. There are even companies that offer guided backcountry tours ranging from hours to days.

Didn't bring a bike? No problem! There are many bike shops around the lake that offer rentals, demos, and sales. These shops are greatresources for expert tips, local lore, trail maps, guide books,accessories and repairs. Free trailmaps are available at most rental shops, and bicycle choices includecruisers, mountain bikes, tandems and kid's bikes and trailers. Callstores for selection and availability.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can change rapidly in Tahoe. Be prepared with the proper clothing, wear sunscreen and bring lots of water. For safety, always wear a helmet.

Be advised that bikes are not allowed in wilderness areas, on the Pacific Crest Trail, on parts of the Tahoe Rim Trail, nor on the self-guided nature trails at the Lake Tahoe Visitor Center. Most other trails and logging roads are open to mountain biking. If in doubt, call the USDA Forest Service in South Lake Tahoe at (530) 573-2600.

While riding, please help protect the Basin's high Alpine environment, an extremely fragile resource, by staying out of meadows and wet areas. Please do not cut switchbacks or make new trails. National Forests belong to a variety of users. Trails are shared by hikers, horses and mountain bikes. Please use caution and courtesy when encountering another user.

Enjoy your ride!

Hiking

There are enough hiking trails in the Lake Tahoe Basin to keep an avid hiker busy for years. We have organized popular Lake Tahoe hiking trails to make it easy for you to plan your hike based on your preference of scenery, location, elevation, distance and difficulty.

Know that weather conditions can change rapidly in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Bring proper clothing, equipment and plenty of water, no matter how short the hike!

Riding Stables

For a close-to-nature experience, explore the scenic wilderness of Lake Tahoe on horseback. Saddle up and savor the scenery as you ride near lakeside and through mountain meadows and forests. Enjoy spectacular mountain views while following the Aspen, Meadow and Fallen Leaf Lake trails. Travel a Sierra trail to reach the secluded Floating Island Lake.

Most stables offer a variety of guided trail rides suited to individuals, families, and groups. Select the type of ride that appeals to your sense of adventure. One to two-hour trail rides. Breakfast, lunch and dinner rides. Half-day, day, overnight and extended pack trips. Call the stables for more information about rides, rates and reservations. YeeeeHaaaaw!

Rock Climbing

The LakeTahoe Basin offers a variety of rock climbing experiences that range from mild to moderate to extreme. You can climb the multi-pitch classics on clean granite and you can test your strength and endurance working out on sport routes.

There are lots of great rock climbing opportunities just minutes from South Lake Tahoe. Experienced climbers may want to visit one of several local sport shops to get detailed information about climbing routes. Beginners will be able to more quickly build their skills and confidence by following the lead of an experienced climbing guide on their first few outings.

Parks and Wilderness Areas

The Lake Tahoe Basin has some of the most beautiful parks and forests in the nation. And since more than 80% of the Lake Tahoe Basin is under public ownership, the scenic and recreation opportunities are everywhere.

Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities that are offered year-round through the Forest Service and the State Parks of California and Nevada. There are hiking trails, naturalist-led activities, historic home tours, museums, beaches, picnic grounds, campgrounds, campfire programs and so much more!

Take a look at our directory for areas that are popular for hikers and campers. Please note that parks and wilderness areas are special places that require special behavior from everyone. Be sure and contact the two USDA Forest Services listed in our Parks and Wilderness Areas directory for jurisdiction, permissible activities, permit requirements, fees, regulations and seasonal concerns. Plan in advance and you'll have a hassle-free great time in a wilderness area!