Lake Tahoe Family Activities for Any Time of Year

Seeking action-packed days outside? Easy. Looking for a change of pace on a secluded trail? You’ve got it. Ready to learn about the area’s history and maybe even get your hands a little dirty? Say no more. Endless Lake Tahoe family activities await. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, there are dozens of memories just waiting to be created.

Summer

As home to one of the world’s most iconic bodies of water, summer in Lake Tahoe is an open invitation to adventure. Crystal-clear waters beg to be jumped in and explored via any number of apparatuses — boat, paddleboard, kayak, you name it. The surrounding mountains and Jeffrey pine trees beckon anyone who wants to stretch their legs. Summer days here are the catalysts for memory-making with the whole family.

Here are some of the locals’ favorites:

• Pack a cooler or two, a shade structure, towels and a few games to hang out on the beach. The most family-friendly ones are Sand Harbor, Lakeside Beach, Hidden Beach and Pope Beach.
• Take a dip! Swimming is the perfect way to cool off during hot summers in Lake Tahoe. Most of Tahoe’s beaches offer a gradual entrance to the water, so you can take your time acclimating to the chill. Be aware that most beaches do not have lifeguards on duty; always keep safety top of mind.
• Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are popular activities for visiting families. Whether you bring your own or rent gear, these are great ways to admire the gorgeous views while strengthening your core.
• Bringing a boat? Fantastic. Don’t forget to bring your gear for wakeboarding or tubing! Or, if you want to feel the rush without manning the wheel, many businesses in Lake Tahoe offer boat tours.
• Remember the freedom and thrill of climbing trees as a kid? This is your chance to reach new heights with your own family! Book a unique ziplining-and-obstacle-course experience at one of Tahoe Treetop Adventures’ three locations between June and August.

Fall

Crisp, refreshing air. A kaleidoscope of golden and fiery hues. Fall is a great time for a Lake Tahoe family vacation, especially if you’re into activities like leaf-peeping. The crowds thin out, but the fun doesn’t.

If you’re planning a trip in autumn, don’t miss these fun activities:

• If you’re looking for a laid-back adventure amongst the changing colors, Spooner Lake, Fallen Leaf Lake and Tahoe Rim Trail should be on your list. Willing to travel a little further for the best leaf-peeping spots? Head to Hope Valley, or check out this article about where to go in Reno to find the best fall colors.
• Kick off your day or wind it down with a little line-casting magic. Tahoe Keys, Cave Rock and Kings Beach are all prime fishing spots waiting for your bait.
• Lake Tahoe’s rugged beauty isn’t just for admiring — it’s for conquering. From the beginner-friendly slabs of Donner Summit to the challenges of Lover’s Leap, there’s a rock climbing route for every skill level.
• First-time climber? Get a guided tour and try assisted climbing with Tahoe Via Ferrata. It’s the perfect time of year to play outside without the sweltering heat!
• Soak in the season in the saddle. From the iconic Flume Trail with its expansive lake views to the twists of Corral Trail, Lake Tahoe’s autumn terrain offers the perfect balance of grit and awe to bikers.
• Trade in your bike for four hooves. Take a trail ride with Piping Rock Horses, so you can experience the wild, free side of Reno Tahoe.

Winter

Craving a winter family vacation that’s pure magic? Look no further than Lake Tahoe. Whether it’s playing in the snow or building the perfect snowman, this is the time to embrace the chill.

• Snow sports are kind of our thing, so of course we’re talking about skiing and snowboarding! With over 10 ski resorts in the Reno Tahoe area, we’ve got just about any terrain you could want. Want the inside scoop on ski resorts in Lake Tahoe? Read our family-friendly ski guide.
• If you’re already planning to shred the slopes with your family at Heavenly Ski Tahoe, don’t forget to ride the scenic gondola! Two words: panoramic perfection.
• Take a magical, 1-hour sleigh ride along Lake Tahoe’s shoreline with Borges Sleigh Rides, a family-operated company that’s been making dreams come true since 1967.
• Families love warming up with hot cocoa and chowing down on s’mores before hitting the ice at Northstar Village’s ice skating rink. Make laps beneath the stars!

Spring

With warmer weather and longer days, spring calls families out of hibernation. It’s the season of renewal — perfect for outdoor adventures and watching nature come to life together in one of the most stunning places on Earth. And, if you’re not over the snow yet, we have long ski seasons you can enjoy.

Check out the top family things to do in Lake Tahoe during spring:

• With dozens of family-friendly hiking trails, this is quite the paradise for nature lovers. Eagle Falls Vista Point Loop, Blackwood Creek Trail Loop, Eagle Lake Trail and Monkey Rock Trail are great options for shorter hikes that are easy for kids of all ages.
• Putt around on the green at Magic Carpet Mini Golf. You can choose between three different courses while enjoying quirky theme elements, and then enjoy their indoor arcade and snack bar. During the summer, Kings Beach Miniature Golf is also a great option!
• Lakefront family picnic, anyone? From the sandy shores of Sand Harbor to the lush meadows of Zephyr Cove, there’s no shortage of beautiful settings to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal. If you have a large group, there are picnic tables available.

Lake Tahoe offers a range of indoor activities for families seeking a bit of culture and even a chance to learn. Explore local museums, get hands-on with interactive exhibits or immerse yourself in the region’s history.

Educational & Cultural Experiences for Families

• The Science Center of Lake Tahoe is a top-notch experience for curious minds! Kids and adults alike will learn something new at the various exhibits about science, technology and the environment.
• Step back in time at Tallac Historic Site, where you’ll discover the history of the Lake Tahoe area with guided tours of historic buildings.
• Build your knowledge about the wildlife, Native history and natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe Basin through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays at the Gatekeeper’s Museum, adjacent to the Lake Tahoe dam in Tahoe City.
• Vikingsholm is a Nordic-inspired masterpiece sitting right on the shores of Emerald Bay. Hike down, soak in the views and enjoy the stone teahouse on Fannette Island. History, scenery and a little bit of fantasy—this spot serves it all.
• Traveling with kids that are seven years old or younger? No problem. KidZone Museum in Truckee provides numerous activities geared towards growing cognitive, motor and social skills through open-ended play.

For even more experiences for art enthusiasts and history buffs, venture to Reno, Carson City and even Virginia City. Your family is sure to have a blast at one of these museums!

More Family Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

There are a few other ways to keep your crew entertained indoors:

• Settle in for a flick on the big screen! Bloomhuff Theaters in Incline Village is a small, uncrowded movie theater that families are sure to enjoy after a day on the mountain.
• Looking for a little friendly competition? Head over to Bowl Incline — a local favorite in Incline Village for over 55 years — to play a few frames with the fam. Make sure to grab a bite from their tasty menu during your game!

Epic Family Stories Are Made Here

Lake Tahoe is a year-round playground where every season brings its own magic for families. Every moment here has the potential to spark joy and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Find a cozy place to stay, and let the adventure begin.