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Lake Tahoe
California
Visit Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, nestled high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, straddling the border between California and Nevada, is a stunning natural oasis that beckons visitors with its breathtaking beauty and a plethora of activities year-round. Known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic mountain vistas, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest in the United States. The lake's vibrant blue color and clarity are due to its depth and the clean mountain air, making it a photographer's paradise and a haven for nature lovers.
During the winter months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a premier ski destination, with numerous resorts like Squaw Valley, Heavenly, and Northstar offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in the U.S. The surrounding mountains are blanketed with snow, creating a winter wonderland ideal for not only skiing but also snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating. The apres-ski scene is equally enticing, with cozy lodges, warm fireplaces, and hot beverages to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Summer at Lake Tahoe is equally magical, as the snow melts to reveal shimmering blue waters and sandy beaches perfect for swimming, kayaking, and boating. Hiking trails abound, offering opportunities for all skill levels to explore the scenic terrain. Trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail provide panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks, while Emerald Bay State Park offers a glimpse into the area's history with the Vikingsholm Castle. Fishing enthusiasts will find the lake stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, making for excellent sport fishing. Whether it's the thrill of catching a wave on a wakeboard or the tranquility of paddling a kayak during a sunset, Lake Tahoe's diverse offerings cater to all interests and ages, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in a spectacular natural setting.
Lake Tahoe Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
16°F
42°F
12
February
18°F
42°F
12
March
23°F
47°F
12
April
30°F
54°F
12
May
39°F
65°F
12
June
44°F
72°F
12
July
44°F
76°F
10
August
44°F
76°F
12
September
42°F
71°F
12
October
39°F
63°F
12
November
27°F
51°F
12
December
25°F
39°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Lake Tahoe
Nickname:
Big Blue
Primary Language:
Washo
Time Zone:
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
3 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
December, January, February
Quietest Travel Months:
October, November, May
Find your Next Adventure in Lake Tahoe
Explore Lake Tahoe
Iconic Landmarks
Emerald Bay State Park
- Known for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning panoramic views, Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe's most photographed locations.
Vikingsholm Castle
- Nestled at the head of Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm Castle is a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States.
Fannette Island
- The only island in Lake Tahoe, Fannette Island features the ruins of a small stone building known as the "Tea House" atop its rocky summit.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
- Offering some of the best ski slopes in the winter and hiking trails in the summer, Heavenly Mountain Resort also provides breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe from its gondola rides.
Sand Harbor
- With its pristine sandy beaches and clear waters, Sand Harbor is a favorite spot for swimming, kayaking, and scenic photography.
Squaw Valley
- Famous for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley is a world-renowned ski resort offering a wide range of outdoor activities year-round.
Cultural Experiences
Valhalla Renaissance Faire
Experience the magic of the Renaissance with period costumes, live performances, and artisan markets at this annual event.
SnowFest!
Celebrate winter with ten days of fun-filled events including parades, races, and parties around North Lake Tahoe.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
Enjoy classic Shakespeare plays set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe at Sand Harbor State Park.
Great Gatsby Festival
Step back into the 1920s with vintage car shows, a roaring twenties costume contest, and tours of the historic Ehrman Mansion.
Wa She Shu It’ Deh Native American Arts Festival
Learn about local Native American culture through traditional dances, crafts, and storytelling at this annual festival held at Valhalla Tahoe.
Tahoe City Wine Walk
Stroll through the scenic streets of Tahoe City sampling local wines and enjoying gourmet bites during this popular summer event.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail
- Circle the lake on this 165-mile trail that offers stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems.
Kayaking on Emerald Bay
- Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Emerald Bay to enjoy serene views and visit the historic Fannette Island.
Mountain Biking on the Flume Trail
- Experience thrilling rides and panoramic views of Lake Tahoe from this famous high-altitude mountain biking trail.
Skiing or Snowboarding at Heavenly Mountain Resort
- Hit the slopes at this large ski resort known for its breathtaking lake views and varied runs suitable for all skill levels.
Parasailing at Zephyr Cove
- Soar above Lake Tahoe and enjoy unmatched aerial views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Fishing on Lake Tahoe
- Try your luck at catching Mackinaw, Rainbow Trout, and other fish in one of North America’s deepest lakes.
Off the Beaten Path
Hidden Beach
- A secluded stretch of sand offering tranquility and stunning views, accessible via a short hike from the main road.
Eagle Rock Hiking Trail
- A relatively easy hike that leads to a panoramic vista of Lake Tahoe, less frequented by tourists.
Watson Lake
- A quiet, picturesque lake perfect for kayaking and fishing, located just north of Tahoe City.
Blackwood Canyon
- Ideal for backcountry skiing in winter and hiking or mountain biking in summer, offering peaceful trails surrounded by dense forest.
Secret Cove
- A hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, popular among locals for sunbathing and swimming.
Mount Tallac Trail
- A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada from the summit.
Lake Tahoe Fun Facts
- Lake Tahoe is one of the deepest lakes in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,645 feet.
- The lake is over 2 million years old, making it one of the oldest lakes in the world.
- Lake Tahoe is known for its clear water, with visibility up to 75 feet deep.
- The lake never freezes due to its depth and size, despite being in a snowy region.
- More than 75% of the lake's watershed is national forest land, providing pristine natural beauty.
- Lake Tahoe is located at a high altitude, sitting at 6,225 feet above sea level.
- The lake straddles two states: California and Nevada.
- The famous "tea house" on Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, was built by the heiress of the Knight newspaper fortune in the 1920s.
- Lake Tahoe was a prime filming location for the TV series "Bonanza."
- The lake's water is so pure that it is capable of dissolving an aluminum can in just 100 years, compared to 200 years in most other water bodies.
Featured Picture Gallery
When Visiting Lake Tahoe Travel to Emerald Bay for Stunning Views
Immerse Yourself in the Colorful Landscape of Lake Tahoe
Experience the Breathtaking View of Lake Tahoe with the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range
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