Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
A Local’s Guide to Adventure in Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is one of the most scenic alpine destinations in North America, with hundreds of activities spanning two states, six distinct shoreline regions, and 6,225 feet of elevation. The most popular things to do in Lake Tahoe include climbing the Tahoe Via Ferrata at Palisades, with no climbing experience required, hiking portions of the Pacific Crest Trail or the famed Western States, kayaking at Sand Harbor, riding the Heavenly Gondola, and taking a scenic cruise on the lake itself. This guide covers the top adventures, sights, and family activities written by the Olympic Valley–based team at Alpenglow Expeditions, the best AMGA-accredited guiding service in Northern California.
Climb the Tahoe Via Ferrata
If you only do one thing in Lake Tahoe, climb 800 feet up the granite Tram Face at Palisades Tahoe on the Tahoe Via Ferrata. Using permanent steel cables, ladder rungs, and suspension bridges, you ascend a sheer cliff face above Olympic Valley with a certified guide — no climbing experience required.
Highlights:
- 800-foot granite cliff at 7,500 ft elevation
- No prior climbing experience needed
- Private and group tours available
- All technical gear included
- No age requirement
Outdoor Adventures in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe’s combination of granite peaks, alpine lakes, and protected wilderness makes it a hub for outdoor adventure across every skill level.
Tahoe Via Ferrata at Palisades Tahoe
The Tahoe Via Ferrata is the only guided cable-climbing route in Lake Tahoe, located on the iconic Tram Face above Olympic Valley. Designed for first-timers and experienced climbers alike, the route uses an Italian-style “iron path” system with steel rungs and a continuous safety cable so you’re attached to the rock at all times. Learn More About the Tahoe Via Ferrata
Hiking in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe’s vast network of hiking trails invites adventurers to explore some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. With Alpenglow Expeditions, you can hire a guide to help you explore portions of the Pacific Crest Trail and the historic Donner Lake, as well as the famed Western States, home to one of the most well-known and challenging trail races in the country.
Mountain Biking the Flume Trail
The Flume Trail is a bucket-list singletrack ride on the Nevada side, climbing above Marlette Lake and traversing 14 miles of cliff-edge trail with views over the entire lake. Rentals and shuttles are available from outfitters in Incline Village.
Paragliding from Heavenly
Tandem paragliding flights launch from the top of Heavenly Mountain Resort on the South Shore, giving you a 20–30 minute glide with panoramic views of the lake and the Carson Range. Several outfitters operate seasonally from late spring through fall.
Lake Tahoe Rock Climbing
Beyond the Via Ferrata, Lake Tahoe has world-class traditional and sport climbing at Donner Summit, Lover’s Leap, and Sugarloaf. Alpenglow Expeditions offers guided rock climbing for first-timers and intermediate climbers across all of these zones. Lake Tahoe Rock Climbing Tours
Things to Do on Lake Tahoe
The lake itself is the main attraction — 72 miles of shoreline, water clarity over 70 feet in some areas, and a deep-blue color that’s earned international recognition.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding at Sand Harbor
Sand Harbor on the Nevada East Shore is the best place to launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, with calm water, granite boulders to paddle around, and rentals on the beach. Arrive before 8 a.m. in summer to secure parking.
Scenic Boat Tours of Emerald Bay
A scenic boat tour to Emerald Bay is the easiest way to see Lake Tahoe’s most photographed inlet from the water. Multiple operators run 2-hour cruises from South Lake Tahoe, including paddlewheel sightseeing boats and smaller catamaran tours with commentary on Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island.
Parasailing & Jet Skiing
Parasailing operators in Tahoe City, Zephyr Cove, and South Lake Tahoe lift you 600–1,200 feet above the water on 8–12 minute flights. Jet ski rentals are available at most major marinas, with hourly and full-day options.
Best Beaches Around Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe has more than 20 public beaches. The most popular include Sand Harbor (Nevada East Shore), Kings Beach (North Shore), Pope Beach (South Shore), Zephyr Cove (Nevada South Shore), and Secret Cove for those willing to hike in.
Climb the Tahoe Via Ferrata or Go Rock Climbing
Lake Tahoe is built for multi-generational trips. The best family activities include the Tahoe Via Ferrata, bike rides on the paved Truckee River Trail, beach days at Kings Beach or Pope Beach, the Heavenly Gondola, mini-golf and ropes courses at Olympic Valley and South Lake Tahoe, and Vikingsholm tours at Emerald Bay.
The Alpenglow Expeditions Kids Rock Climbing Camp also runs summer sessions for ages 7–14.
