Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination during the fall season, offering a variety of activities and breathtaking scenery. This itinerary will guide you through the best of Lake Tahoe in the fall, from the North Shore and East Shore to the South Lake Tahoe region.
Day 1: North Shore and East Shore
Morning Hike
Start your day with a hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail or the Rubicon Trail, both of which offer picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The fall foliage and crisp air make for an invigorating outdoor experience.
Emerald Bay
Visit Emerald Bay, a state park with a small entrance fee. Enjoy the scenic views of the bay and take a stroll along the shoreline, taking in the vibrant fall colors reflected in the water.
Sand Harbor
Stop by Sand Harbor, known for its pristine beach and wooden plank walkways. Time your visit for late in the day to catch the stunning sunset over the lake.
Lunch and Coffee
Grab lunch at a local cafe in Incline Village, such as The Village Cafe, to refuel after your morning activities.
Day 2: South Lake Tahoe
Beach Stroll
Begin the day with a stroll along one of the many beautiful beaches, such as Nevada Beach, Baldwin Beach, or Zephyr Cove. Bring a blanket and a picnic to enjoy the crisp fall air.
Bike Ride
Rent a bike and ride along the Pope-Baldwin bike path, which offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.
Lunch and Coffee
Head to downtown South Lake Tahoe for lunch at Izzy’s Burger Spa, known for its award-winning burgers at affordable prices.
Additional Activities
Kayaking or Boating
Rent kayaks or take a boat tour to enjoy the lake’s clear waters and fall colors.
Fall Colors
Look for the vibrant fall colors of the cottonwoods and aspens, particularly around Spooner Lake and Fallen Leaf Lake.
Camping
If you’re visiting before mid-October, take advantage of the final days of camping season.
Spawning Kokanee Salmon
Catch the spawning Kokanee salmon that have returned to the creeks.
Tips and Essentials
Weather
Pack for crisp fall weather with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s.
Parking and Traffic
Avoid parking and traffic issues by visiting during the week or early in the morning.
Accommodation
Consider staying in Incline Village for a more relaxed atmosphere or South Lake Tahoe for a social scene.
Equipment
Bring warm clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning fall scenery.
References
- Visit Lake Tahoe. (n.d.). Fall in Lake Tahoe. Retrieved from https://visitlaketahoe.com/things-to-do/fall/
- The Funemployed Family. (2023). A Fall Guide to South Lake Tahoe, California. Retrieved from https://www.thefunemployedfamily.com/blog/fall-guide-south-lake-tahoe-california
- Exploring R World. (2024). Enjoy a Weekend Getaway at Lake Tahoe in the Fall. Retrieved from https://exploringrworld.com/enjoy-a-weekend-getaway-at-lake-tahoe-in-the-fall/
- Go Tahoe North. (n.d.). Fall Things To Do in Lake Tahoe. Retrieved from https://www.gotahoenorth.com/lake-tahoe-activities/fall/
- Where’s Janice. (2023). How To See Lake Tahoe: 2-Day Fall Itinerary You Need. Retrieved from https://wheresjanice.com/lake-tahoe-2-day-itinerary/.