You’ve heard Lake Tahoe winter vacations are epic. The best. Many might even say unforgettable. You’ve done the research and are just waiting for the right time to pull the trigger. Luckily, you have this article to give you some locals’ Lake Tahoe winter travel tips! Whether you’re craving the rush of skiing fresh powder, looking for a fun family tubing day or hoping to see the region’s artsy side, this place has everything you could want — and more. We’ll take you through the best of Lake Tahoe’s winter activities, from heart-racing snowmobile rides to cozy hot chocolate breaks. We’ll also dive into the food and après-ski scene, reveal pro tips for packing and share some of the best places to stay.
Top Winter Activities in Lake Tahoe
If you’re wondering if Lake Tahoe is a good place to visit, here’s your answer: It’s the place for winter adventures that hits each person’s interests and thrill level.
For Adventure-Seekers
Epic ski resorts for skiing and snowboarding. Wide-open space for backcountry skiing and groomed trails for those who prefer to go cross-country. Snow-covered forests perfect for a winter snowshoe hike with surreal views. Revving a snowmobile engine before you tear off into a winter wonderland. You dream it — Lake Tahoe’s got it.
If you’re ready to push your limits, visit these spots during a Lake Tahoe winter vacation:
- Ski resorts: Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, Heavenly Lake Tahoe, Palisades Tahoe
- Snowshoeing trails: Chickadee Ridge, Mount Rose Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail
- Cross-country skiing trails: Nevada Nordic, Royal Gorge, Tahoe Donner
- Snowmobile tours in North Lake Tahoe: Sierra Adventures and Coldstream Adventures
- Snowmobile tours in South Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe Adventures and Zephyr Cove Snowmobiling Tours
For Families
Lake Tahoe is a great winter vacation destination for those craving family fun. Enjoy the thrill of tubing at Boreal Mountain Ski Resort, ski without crowds (and find easy parking!) at Diamond Peak Ski Resort or take fun to the next level with disco tubing at Palisades Tahoe, where colorful lights guide your way as you and your family race under the stars.
Add in some classic sledding spots in Lake Tahoe, and you've got hours of old-fashioned fun.
If ice skating is more your style, head to one of Lake Tahoe’s picturesque outdoor rinks. Many ski resorts offer this fan-favorite activity, including Northstar California, Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly Ski Tahoe. Glide across the ice together, listen to live music and warm up with snacks from rink-side spots. Our go-to order? A cup of hot cocoa and freshly toasted s’mores.
Looking to explore the region’s beauty up close with your fam? Meet Lake Tahoe’s quiet side as you trek through the wintry landscape. Some popular hiking trails include Spooner Lake Trail, Incline Flume Trail (aka, “Tahoe Rim Trail Lite”) and Chimney Beach Trail. Snap a few pictures while you’re out there!
For Arts & Culture Lovers
Lake Tahoe isn’t just for snow sports. Its creative side has a lot to give, too.
Explore its vibrant gallery scene, where local artists bring the mountains to life through paintings, sculpture and photography. Incline Village and South Lake Tahoe are home to several standout galleries, each offering a unique take on the lake’s winter beauty.
If live performances are more your vibe, catch a show at the historic Valhalla Tahoe, where incredible, intimate concerts and theater performances unfold against a stunning alpine backdrop.
Prefer to capture the magic yourself? Lake Tahoe during the winter is a photographer’s dream. The crystal-clear lake paired with snow-dusted peaks makes every angle a postcard, but the best shots are often found at sunrise and sunset. Locals love these spots for the perfect picture:
- Sand Harbor for its iconic rock formations
- Logan Shoals Vista Point
- Skunk Harbor
- Zephyr Cove
- Emerald Bay
Whether you’re carving down world-class slopes or cozying up with hot cocoa after a day on the mountain, experience a true winter wonderland in Lake Tahoe.
Chow Down & Drink Up
Foodies love Lake Tahoe. The cafes, restaurants and bars you’ll find here are all about big flavors and laid-back vibes.
Cozy Cafes
For that perfect winter pick-me-up, try Tahoe House Bakery & Gourmet in Tahoe City. Known for their Swiss-style pastries and rich hot cocoa, this spot is a sweet refuge from the cold. Get your caffeine fix at Drink Coffee Do Stuff; they have locations in Truckee and Incline Village. Or head to Coffeebar in Truckee for locally roasted coffee and European-inspired pastries. And if you’re down by the lake, stop at either Happy Tiers or Tunnel Creek Cafe in Incline Village, where you’ll find hot drinks and fresh-baked goods.
Delicious Restaurants
In North Lake, don’t miss places like T’s Mesquite Rotisserie, where the tacos come loaded. Enjoy a hearty meal and quench your thirst at Inclined Burgers and Brews. For those looking to dig into some fresh seafood with a twist, Gar Woods Grill & Pier in Carnelian Bay serves up killer crab cakes and lakefront views. Or enjoy a more relaxed, lakeside vibe at Lone Eagle Grille — a fireside cocktail and their famous bison chili is the perfect way to end a snow day.
Looking for an Après-Ski Scene?
The lifts are closed, and it's time for an ice-cold drink. Grab a beer at many of Lake Tahoe ski resorts’ lodges or head out for a new adventure.
Try Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village, where you’ll find craft brews inspired by the Sierra Nevada mountains. Their lively taproom and lineup of seasonal beers make it a prime spot to share stories of the day’s best runs. Or, if you’re in South Shore, stop by Whiskey Dicks Saloon, a legendary dive that brings out Lake Tahoe’s untamed spirit with local brews and live music.
Pro Tips for Packing
If you’re heading to Lake Tahoe for a winter vacation, packing smart is key. Here’s what you should take:
- A heavy-duty jacket
- Insulated layers (a base layer of thermals, a warm mid-layer and a weather-resistant outer layer will do the trick)
- Warm gloves
- Wool-blend socks
- Waterproof boots
- Small, yet mighty essentials (hand warmers, lip balm and sunglasses)
And don’t sleep on safety — exertion at high elevations can take its toll. Keeping some high-energy snacks, a water bottle and a thermos for hot drinks on you is a great way to stay fueled. Bringing a mini first aid kit isn’t a bad idea either.
All of these combined will keep you comfortable whether you’re hitting the slopes or seeking out Lake Tahoe scenic winter views.
Getting to Reno Tahoe
Now that you know what to bring, let’s talk about how you’re getting here!
The good news is that, no matter where you’re coming from, it’s easy to find a major highway that will take you to Lake Tahoe. If you’re in Reno, hop on Highway 395, then Highway 431 will take you over the Mount Rose summit and into Incline Village. I-80 is perfect for those driving in from the Bay Area. Coming from somewhere in SoCal, like L.A.? Follow I-5 N until you reach Sacramento, then turn onto Highway 50.
For those coming from farther out, flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the way to go. Rent a car or board a shuttle, as the lake is a short drive away.
The Best Places to Stay
When it comes to where you’ll rest up after playing in Tahoe’s winter wonderland, we’ve got you covered with a variety of lodging options that’ll fit any group and budget. We’re talking cozy vacation rentals tucked among snowy pines to resorts and hotels packed with amenities.
Closer to Reno’s exciting nightlife:
- Hotels at THE ROW (including Silver Legacy Resort Casino and Eldorado Resort Casino)
- Grand Sierra Resort
- Whitney Peak Hotel
Closer to Reno Tahoe ski resorts:
In the heart of Lake Tahoe:
Once you choose your basecamp, your winter vacation in Lake Tahoe is set in motion. All you have to do is decide what you’re going to do first.
Let the Fun Begin
Our biggest winter travel tip and the key to having a great Lake Tahoe vacation? Bring your sense of adventure and seize every moment. So, what are you waiting for?