Taking a trip to Lake Tahoe in the fall is a wonderful idea for a quick getaway. While the town is crowded with visitors during the summer and the winter months, the Fall season brings in distinct advantages. Firstly in this so-called offseason, the whole place is practically yours to enjoy at your own pace. Secondly, the weather is just perfect for outdoor activities. Thirdly, and most importantly, air tickets and accommodations are available at much cheaper prices as compared to those busy months.
Both North and South Lake Tahoe offer picture-perfect Lake views, well-maintained state parks, a wide range of accommodations and superb dining options. We visited Lake Tahoe during our 10 days California road trip and stayed there for two days. Here are the high points from our trip.
North Lake Tahoe
1.Sand Harbor State Park
A beautiful beach, interesting big rocks formation, and accessible boardwalk give this state park a perfect score for everyone to relax and have a good time. This park is open round the year from sunrise to sunset. Entry pass is $10 for the day and can be used at other state parks for same-day use.
There is a visitor center/gift shop where you can have more info about the park and other hiking opportunities available near the area. Kayaks and paddleboats can be rented here. North Lake Tahoe is a superb place to watch the Sunsets. You can check out park website for more information http://parks.nv.gov/parks/lake-tahoe-nevada-state-park
2.Incline Village
Incline Village is one of the finest upscale neighborhoods on the shores of North Lake Tahoe. The town has some of the best resorts and mansion-style houses that are definitely worth an evening stroll or riding a bike around.
South Lake Tahoe
1.Emerald Bay State Park
No trip to Tahoe is complete without a visit to Emerald Bay State Park. Along Highway 89, Emerald Bay State Park, DL Bliss State Park, and Sugar Pine Point State Park are adjacent to each other. All the 3 parks are definitely worth the visit, they mostly close by end of October or the first week of November as access to highway 89 closes down for winters.
Vikingsholm Tours
Vikingholms are the historic castle of Scandinavian architecture that stands on the shore of Emerald Bay. It’s a must-visit to immerse oneself to the rich culture that it holds and to see some finest collection of arts and antiques. To know more about the history https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1158. For more information about the tours and how to get there, check out the link https://sierrastateparks.org/emerald-bay-state-park/vikingsholm-tours/.
Fannette Island
The island sits right at the heart of Emerald Bay. To explore the island you can rent a boat, kayak, or even take a boat cruise tours to know more of its history. Not much to do here, you can hike to the treehouse and take pictures.
Rubicon Trail
The Rubicon Trail, (not to be confused with the 22 miles one) starts from the Vikingholms parking lot. This trail connects two State Parks, Emerald Bay, and DL Bliss State Park. The hike is around 10 miles out and back. For instance, you can start from one state park and have someone pick you at either park or just do a part of it. Either way, It’s a refreshing hike where you will walk into lush green forests with the gorgeous views of the blue-turquoise Lake on another side.
We hiked for about 7 miles out and back and would definitely pack my lunch/snack/water. We packed our lunch from Sprouts Cafe as this cafe was on our way to the state park. The food was fresh and delicious. Check out their site for more details https://www.sproutscafetahoe.com/
2.Lakeside Beach
South Tahoe Lakeside Beach is privately managed by Lakeside Park Association and this beach is accessible to members staying in their properties or purchasing a visitor pass. But in the fall and winter months, you can access free of cost. It’s a beautiful beach to spend your afternoon leisurely or evenings watching the sunset. Parking is very limited in this area so walking or cycling is highly encouraged.
3.Heavenly Village
With all the hiking and beach basking, Heavenly Village is a good place to let your mind and muscles loosen up. You can take a Gondola ride in the day for stunning mountain views. At night, chill out at cool bars and eatery for some great music and good food.
Lake Tahoe has so much to offer that a weekend stay is definitely not enough to do everything. However, it does give us a reason to be back for more. So, these are my Lake Tahoe moments for now. Do you have any of Lake Tahoe’s favorite memories to cherish?
Disclaimer: This post contains links that are not sponsored or paid. They are purely for passing on some additional information to help plan your trip.
