Nestled between California and Nevada and credited as the largest alpine lake in North America is Lake Tahoe, Nevada. This is a very popular vacation spot all year round with amazing outdoor activities, no matter what the season. If you are planning a road trip to this destination, then you need to start preparing now. Knowing what to expect, what you can do, and where to stay can help make your Lake Tahoe road trip go more smoothly once you hit the shores of the lake.
A Little About Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is in a unique location because it sits on the border. This allows you to enjoy both California and Nevada on your vacation. It is also in a resort region, so it is well equipped to handle tourists, which means getting to Lake Tahoe and exploring is simple. From boating and hiking to skiing and gambling, there is something that should interest everyone. The clear waters of the lake are surrounded by tall mountain peaks, offering you a naturally beautiful scenic locale for your family getaway.
Seasonal Exploits
One of the first decisions you need to make about your Lake Tahoe vacation is when you will go. This area is great in both summer and winter. In summer, the weather is moderate, and you are encouraged to explore nature through biking, hiking, boating, and camping. This area does get quite crowded, as locals often flock here to escape the higher temperatures of nearby regions.
Winter can be an exciting time to visit. The skiing is top notch. There are plenty of lodges set up to accommodate guests, as well. Unless you are a skier, though, this time of year can be challenging because it can be difficult to navigate the area due to closed roads and dangerous terrain. If you do go in winter, be prepared to use chains and tackle snowy roads. Another issue with winter is that most of the tourist centers, parks, and other attractions are closed. The ski resorts are open, though, so skiing really is the only thing to do.
If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the best of Lake Tahoe, the most ideal time to visit is late spring or early fall. The area is less crowded, the weather is still nice and all attractions and accommodations are open. Prices are also more reasonable because these are off-season times.
Areas To Explore
Lake Tahoe can be broken down into three main areas, which are all exciting to explore in their own right. There is South Lake Tahoe, which is more of the Nevada area, with casinos and entertainment. North Lake Tahoe is more outdoorsy. It features the ski resort areas as well. Outside the bowl or around the lake are the mountains and a couple major resorts.
Getting Here and Choosing Accommodations
Driving is the most common way of getting to Lake Tahoe. If you live far away, you could fly into the local area, but getting to the lake itself requires driving or using public transportation options. Plan accordingly to ensure you can get a rental car, book transportation, or use your own vehicle. Remember that in the winter it could be more challenging to get into the area.
There are many options in where to stay. Depending on when you visit, you could camp or stay in one of the many resorts.
What To Do
Once you are in Lake Tahoe, you will have plenty of options for things to do. Most of the fun revolves around outdoor activities. From swimming to skiing, you can enjoy the natural amenities of the area. There are plenty of services, including horseback rides, ballooning, golf, river rafting, bungee jumping, and parasailing. Beyond the outdoor activities, there are also plenty of other options. There are casinos conveniently located around the lake that feature gambling and entertainment.
If you really want to take in the whole area, but don’t want to do it on foot, there are some nice options that will allow you to see the lake. These include the Heavenly Mountain Resort gondola and the Squaw Valley cable car.
Before You Go
Before you head out on your Lake Tahoe family vacation, it is a good idea to get your vehicle serviced. You want to make sure it is in good condition before hitting the roads. Having our technicians check it out at Sun Auto Service can give you a peace of mind before you take off on the open road.
