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North Lake Tahoe is known for its laid-back mountain atmosphere and incredibly fun things to do in the winter. While skiing and snowboarding are a significant draw, there’s far more to do than just hit the slopes.
Knowing that planning a mountain trip can be overwhelming and that it can be difficult to find activities suitable for all family members, I put this guide together to ease the stress of planning and help you find an adventure regardless of your skill level.
I have spent a significant amount of time in North Lake Tahoe, thanks in large part to good friends who live there. They have shown us a whole new world of winter wonderland activities. For example, winter activities in North Lake Tahoe might include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow tubing, and sleigh rides, to name a few!
Each time I visit, I like to try new things so that I can share my fun experiences with you.
Before we get to the best winter activities in North Lake Tahoe, there are a few things to know about the area.
What cities are in North Lake Tahoe?
North Lake Tahoe is comprised of several small cities and towns near the California/Nevada border, including:
- Incline Village
- Sunnyside/Tahoe City
- Kings Beach
- Carnelian Bay
- Crystal Bay
- Tahoe Vista
- Truckee
The towns in North Lake Tahoe have populations ranging from about 17,000 people in Truckee to 1,500 people in Sunnyside/Tahoe City. The quaint towns give the illusion that time has stood still as the architecture is predominately from the 60’s and 70’s.
North Lake Tahoe Weather in the Winter
In the winter, the temperature in North Lake Tahoe fluctuates from the high 30s to the low 40s during the day and tends to dip below 14 degrees at night.
How do I get to North Lake Tahoe?
North Lake Tahoe is about 43-miles from the Reno International Airport. While the drive is relatively short, it can be hair-raising on the twisty Mt. Rose Highway when it snows. If the snow conditions are heavy, try taking the longer routes through Truckee on Interstate 80 or Carson City on Interstate 580.
Pro Tip: When returning to the Reno Airport, take Mt. Rose Highway and stop at the scenic overlook for an unobstructed breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe.
The North Lake Tahoe Welcome Center is also another resource for all things in the area.
Now that you are familiar with the basics, here are some of the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe in the winter:
1. Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking in North Lake Tahoe
For those who’d prefer a mellow mountain experience, North Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for snowshoeing. Numerous hiking trails turned snowshoeing trails in the winter are easily accessible.
For a quick snowshoeing excursion, head to North Tahoe Regional Park, which offers six miles of groomed trails with stunning lake views and tranquil forest scenery. I have been snowshoeing here with friends. The terrain is beginner-friendly, with easy-to-follow trails and incredible views.
Pro Tip: North Tahoe Regional Park does not have rentals, so you need to bring your own shoeshowing gear.
Chickadee Ridge is another popular North Lake Tahoe hiking area for snowshoeing in the winter. The scenic views, including Lake Tahoe at the summit, combined with the birds that will eat out of the palm of your hand, make the Chickadee Ridge hike a must-do activity.
We enjoyed exploring Chickadee Ridge. I was surprised how many birds were willing to eat out of Gary’s palm. My friends tried feeding the birds in the summer, and the birds were not interested. So, I think (and I could be wrong) the birds have less access to food in the winter and, therefore, are more willing to get close to humans.
In addition to the bird-feeding experience, the incredible view of Lake Tahoe at the summit is another reason this is a stellar place for hiking and snowshoeing. We also saw people skiing in the area.
Pro Tip: Park along Mt. Rose Highway and head toward the forest. The trail can be tricky to find in the winter and stay on. We used Alltrails to keep you on the right path.
2. Snow Tubing and Sledding
Did you know there is a difference between snow tubing and slow sledding? Snow tubing requires a blown-up inner tube, whereas snow sledding is done on a plastic or metal sled.
North Lake Tahoe offers snow tubing and sledding opportunities for the whole family. For some of the best sledding, check out Spooner Summit, North Lake Regional Park, or Granlibakken’s Sled Hill.
3. The Best Places for Skiing and Snowboarding in North Lake Tahoe
Okay, so I couldn’t just leave skiing out of an article about the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe in the winter. After all, I am a skiier.
North Tahoe skiing is epic. The nearby ski resorts attract visitors worldwide with over 260 inches of annual snowfall and incredible mountain terrain. The varied terrain provides an adventure for all levels. For those who want to push the envelope, there are world-class halfpipes and steeps with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.
Unlike many mountain towns, the region of North Lake Tahoe has several ski mountain options. From world-famous mountains like Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows) and Northstar California to local mountains like Diamond Peak Ski Resort and Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, skiing and snowboarding options are essentially limitless in North Lake Tahoe.
We had several incredible days at Diamond Peak with a couple of friends. They, along with Gary, are expert skiers, while I fall more into the intermediate category. However, at Diamond Peak, there was more than enough terrain to keep all of us smiling. The views are insane, too. Watch the video below to see the trails and views for yourself.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pack accessories to keep you warm like a buff (neck and head warmer), hat, gloves, warm socks, and hand warmers.
4. Après-Ski
Après-ski is a time-honored tradition of meeting friends for a drink after a day on the slopes. There is nothing like sipping a cocktail to numb my aching legs at the end of an exciting day of skiing – it is one of my favorite winter traditions.
But you don’t have to be a skier to participate in the après-ski tradition.
5. Fat Tire Biking
The snow doesn’t stop biking enthusiasts from getting out there and exploring the area. Instead, they expanded their quiver to include fat tire bikes. Fat tires provide greater traction, and the knobby treads can help cut through the snow (although not more than 4″). Groomed trails at places like Mt. Rose Meadows, Tahoe Donner, and Spooner Summit are ideal for fat tire biking.
Before you head out for fat tire biking in North Lake Tahoe, visit Vista Trial Bikes’ guide to fat tire biking in Tahoe.
6. Cross Country Skiing in North Lake Tahoe
One of North America’s largest concentrations of cross country skiing is in Lake Tahoe. The area has endless groomed trails and different places to test your skills. Popular places for cross country skiing include:
- 140 km of trails (total of 92 trails and 9 warming huts) at Royal Gorge
- Over 100 km of trails at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center
- 35 km of trails at Northstar California Cross Country, Telemark & Snowshoe Center
Visit North Lake Tahoe for more information about the cross country ski options.
7. Spend the Day in Historic Truckee
Historic Truckee is a small old west mountain town that has been revitalized. The cute downtown is filled with unique shops and charming restaurants. Restaurants in Truckee run the gambit from classic American dishes to international cuisine, such as pizza and pasta menu items.
While visiting, I found many of the boutiques in Historic Truckee carry interesting local products and art you cannot find elsewhere. Once in Truckee, you might want to also try wine tasting or wander through some of the local art galleries.
It can get a little chilly, so I opted to wear a fleece and bring a puff jacket.
8. Drive Billionaire’s Row or Take a Scenic Drive Around Lake Tahoe
Lakeshore Boulevard in Incline Village is home to stunning lakefront homes. The sprawling compounds range in style from log cabins to ultra-modern homes. Some have been passed down through generations, while billionaires like Larry Ellison and Mark Zuckerberg have purchased others. Even though living along the Lake is unattainable for most, the cost to drive Billionaire’s Row is free. We drive Billionaire’s Row every time we visit because the homes are constantly undergoing renovations.
Driving the entire loop around Lake Tahoe will take you about three hours without stopping. But what fun would that be? The 72-mile drive has scenic places to stop, like Hidden Beach and Sand Harbor. Even in the winter, the views are worth the stop.
9. Sunsets on Lake Tahoe
If you have never seen the sun setting over Lake Tahoe, you are missing out. The winter sunsets are particularly stunning, with the Lake in the foreground framed by snow-capped mountains.
One of my favorite places to catch the sunset is at Lone Eagle. Grab a drink at the bar and head outside, where you can breathe in the crisp mountain air as you watch the sun dip below the Lake. If you stay for dinner, head outside before dessert to see the stars.
10. Live Music and Casino Night
For a wilder night (wild being relative), head to the Crystal Bay Casino, just over the Nevada Stateline on Route 28 along the Lake. A night out at Crystal Bay Casino might include a steak and lobster dinner, followed by live music and testing your luck at the tables.
The dimly lit, smokey casino reminds me of the casinos on Freemont Street in Las Vegas. Where the smoke fills the air, and the dark casino may have seen better days. However, you’ll have a good time if you go with the right attitude.
For a more upscale experience, test lady luck at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa & Casino.
11. Go for a walk along the Lake
Tahoe East Shore Trail is a peaceful and scenic three-mile walking/biking path along part of Lake Tahoe. Accessible throughout the year, the Tahoe East Shore Trail is popular.
To walk the entire trail, park in the public parking lot near, but not at, Tunnel Creek Café. Parking is a bit expensive but cheaper than a ticket.
Take the paved path along the mountainside through the tunnel and along the Lake. In my experience, a winter walk along Lake Tahoe is heavenly. The path is generally not crowded, and the winter views are serene.
I like to stop into Tunnel Creek Café for a warm drink to warm up or have a bite to eat after my walk.
This is also a great activity to do in Lake Tahoe in the summer when the sun is shining!
Pro Tip: In the winter, the Tahoe East Shore Trail can be icy in spots. I sometimes use Yak Traks (essentially chains that slip on over your shoes) to avoid slipping and sliding everywhere.
12. Surfing in North Lake Tahoe
It’s hard to believe, but hardcore surfers occasionally paddle out on at Incline Beach – Lake Tahoe for a surf session. This isn’t something I would do, but I have seen people surfing on the Lake when the wind swell picks up. The day I took this photo, I was bundled up, drinking hot chocolate and still shivering, while the surfers in wetsuits were catching waves.
Normally, I’d suggest surfing in Fiji or Punta Mita, but if you are hardcore, you probably won’t be alone.
I would suggest going with a friend because I don’t count as a lifeguard.
13. Scenic Gondola Ride at Palisades Tahoe
For the non-skiers reading this, you can enjoy epic mountain views without all the gear. During the 16-minute base to base gondola ride, visitors travel between Palisades and Alpine, stopping at the top of the KT-22 chairlift for incredible views.
Visitors no longer have to worry about conquering these legendary mountains. Instead, hop on the gondola and experience breathtaking vistas and heavenly lake views from inside the gondola.
14. Stargazing for Amateurs and Professionals
One of the benefits of a small mountain is the lack of light pollution. You can walk out your front door and see stars lighting the night sky. If you are anything like me, you know the basic constellations but don’t have a handle on most.
Thanks to the SkySafari app, the night sky reveals its hidden gems. You can learn about 120,000 stars, 222 star clusters, galaxies, and more than 200 asteroids, comets, and satellites for a small fee. The app shows whether you are looking at a star or a satellite.
You might even opt for a snowshoe under the stars tour to get the most out of your stargazing experience.
Stargazing is one of the easier things to do at night in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. I can never get enough. Whether I am in Yosemite, Mammoth, or Sedona, I always take time to look up at the night sky to enjoy the view.
15. North Lake Tahoe Backcountry Skiing
North Lake Tahoe is a prime place for backcountry skiing because of the endless places to test your skills in the Eastern Sierra Mountains. But let’s be honest, the real draw is the fresh powder, fresh tracks, and hardly any people. But backcountry skiing is not for the average Joe.
Backcountry skiing requires you to reach your destination under your power. There are no chairlifts, and ski patrol doesn’t exist in the backcountry. The avalanche risk is a legitimate concern. So, those who try backcountry skiing should be excellent skiers, comfortable with tree skiing, and able to climb to the summit. Before heading out, it’s advisable to have backcountry training, be familiar with the terrain, and have the right life-saving gear.
There are three popular areas for backcountry skiing in the area: Silver Peak (for beginners), Mt. Rose Wilderness, and Jake’s Peak.
16. Scenic Sleigh Ride
What better way to get in the holiday spirit than with a sleigh ride along the Lake? The 45-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride is a unique way to experience the beautiful mountain and lake views. Remember to layer up because it does get cold in the winter. A sleigh ride is great for the whole family.
17. Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is a year-round sport in North Lake Tahoe. However, you will need a bit of extra tenacity in the winter. Cold water temperatures and short-lived bugs and insects make fly fishing challenging. Potentially obstructed access to rivers and lakes due to snow may not make access easy, but hardly anything worth doing is easy.
18. See Lake Tahoe by Air
Visitors have some options for taking in the Lake Tahoe area sights by air. Thrillists can ride in a glider plane or take a helicopter ride high above Lake Tahoe. Both will require good weather, so try to be flexible if your tour gets rescheduled. It’s all about being safe while having fun.
Pro Tip: To avoid getting cold while in the air, wear layers.
19. Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is an exciting way to explore the backcountry terrain. Join a snowmobile tour and head out into the Tahoe National Forest. Like other mountain towns like Mammoth Lakes, there is a whole forest to explore on a snowmobile.
20. Ice Skating
Ice skating is just one of the family-friendly Tahoe winter activities. In fact, many North Lake Tahoe resorts and towns have ice skating rinks. The Village at Northstar, Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, and Truckee Ice Rink are popular places for ice skating.
Do not attempt to skate on Lake Tahoe. It is not safe.
21. Winter Festivals and Events
North Lake Tahoe hosts various winter festivals and events throughout the season. From holiday celebrations to snow sculpting competitions, there’s always something exciting happening in the area.
Where to Stay in North Lake Tahoe
Visitors may opt for a traditional luxury hotel like The Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe with its ski-in, and ski-out options, multiple restaurants, and a high-end spa on the property.
For a more intimate experience, you may like the Incline Lodge. The newly renovated boutique luxury hotel is run by a local family that prides itself on the guest experience.
The scenic lakeside Hyatt Regency is another option. Choose from one of the lakefront cottages or stay in the main hotel.
Another option is to rent a home through VRBO that fits your needs. Many vacation rentals offer stunning views of the Lake and easy access to winter activities.
Whether you seek adventure on the slopes or a peaceful nature retreat, North Lake Tahoe provides both. I hope these experiences motivate you to seek the thrill of the outdoors and the serenity of the snow-covered landscapes.
Which Tahoe activity are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments!
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Looks like a fabulous winter vacation location. I’d like to visit someday. I’ve heard lots of great things about the area.
Lake Tahoe is a bucket list experience for me. Your pictures are gorgeous!
Thanks!
Your list of the best things to do in North Lake Tahoe during winter is fantastic! It’s refreshing to see recommendations beyond skiing, providing a well-rounded guide for those seeking diverse winter activities. From snowshoeing to cozying up by the fire, you’ve captured the essence of a winter wonderland in North Lake Tahoe. Thanks for sharing these wonderful suggestions to make the most of the snowy season in this beautiful region! ⛷️
Tahoe is such a fun place to visit in the winter! Would love to try snowshoeing there.
Skiing and Snowboarding are my favorite winter activities. But I have never tried snowshoeing – Lake Tahoe looks like a great place for winter hiking! Thanks for sharing your experience!
This place definitely looks like a fun trip to take over the weekend! Thank you for the guide
I never knew there was so much to do in North Lake Tahoe. I will have to consider it now a winter holiday destination rather than heading to the warmth like i usually do!
Lake Tahoe is on my bucket list! I’m not really a winter gal, but I’d be down for a gondola ride, exploring the historic town, hearing some live music or catching a sunset, and I’m all about that après-ski!! Xx Sara
I’m not a skier, but I love a vacation in the snow. I love making a snowshoe walk through (deep) snow and just enjoying the snow in various ways. Lake Tahoe sounds like a good destination for this.
What fun ideas! I’ve always wanted to do a winter trip in the mountains, but am not a skier. These are some great activity suggestions!
I must admit that we often don’t seek out cold weather things in the winter. But I was surprised at how much there was to do in North Lake Tahoe that was not just skiing. I am past skiing but think snow tubing would be a lot of fun. And you can always sign me up for aprés ski. But I sure would pass on surfing!
Oooh thanks so much for this, I am not a big winter sports person when it comes to skiing and snowboarding (although I like snowshoeing), so “what to do in winter” posts are never very accessible to me. But this is perfect, I would be interested in plenty of the things on this list! Sledding, scenic drives, gondola rides, and the sleigh ride all sound up my alley. I’ll have to check out the winter festival options too.
I love Lake Tahoe! I’ve never been when it was winter, but it looks like there’s so much fun stuff to do. I wanna check out the gondala and fat biking. Thank you for the great tips!!