Guide Note

Lake Tahoe is a popular vacation destination that is right on the border of California and Nevada; Reno being the closest and largest city to the lake. It's a freshwater lake that is available year round for activities such as, skiing, camping, hiking and there are even beaches that are used in the hotter months. Besides recreational, outdoor activities, there are casinos all around the area that are popular as well.

Fast Facts

1. Country: United States
2. States: California, Nevada
3. North Shore cities: Tahoe City, CA; Tahoe Vista, CA; Kings Beach, CA; Incline Village, NV
4. South Shore cities: South Lake Tahoe, CA; Stateline, NV; Zephyr Cove, NV
5. Time zone: PST

Recreational sports are the main reason people go to Tahoe. In the summer months, the North Shore is full of things to do. Hiking, biking, sailing and canoeing are just some of the possibilities that await visitors. There are even 11 golf course for the golf fanatic, as well as many beaches for those that just want to relax.¹

The winter months bring just as many activities as the summer months on the North Shore. Skiing, snowshoeing and even gambling are some of the "best" the area has to offer. There are 12 ski areas in the region, as well as a variety of cross country skiing trails.² For those that just want to relax and stay out of the cold weather, there are spas and fitness centers around for public use.³

South Lake Tahoe has many of the same activities as North Lake Tahoe does, but what about the attractions? There are of course the beaches,⁴ but also historic sites such as Vikingsholm Castle and the Gatekeeper's Cabin Museum.⁵ For the kids, there is the Tahoe Tot Spot,⁶ which is a gym play center designed especially for the little ones. For the whole family, there is shopping⁷ and a number of restaurants⁸ to choose from.

When planning your trip, please see the pages on Lake Tahoe Hotels and Lake Tahoe Restaurants.