Fall for North Lake Tahoe

Favorite fall color? North Lake Tahoe Blue! In autumn, North Lake Tahoe is not only quieter—this famous crystalline oasis is surrounded by vivid fall colors of mixed meadows and stands of aspens. Add the crisp mountain air to your color-fall hikes and bike rides, and you’re going to want to stay longer than a weekend. Enjoy an extended stay while working from nature – North Lake Tahoe style.

True Blue Outdoors

North Lake Tahoe offers a true balance of nature and nurture. Start your day with yoga on Lake Tahoe’s shoreline, then choose an adventure, big or small.

Hike to Your Heart's Desire

Take the ultimate hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail. All in, the 165-mile trail makes a loop around Lake Tahoe, traversing both the California and Nevada sides.

Multiple access points let you choose a section to suit your style. From hiking to Relay Peak or wandering through forest and up to lake views, find your ideal Tahoe Rim Trail adventure.

If you want to get in a quiet hike before or after other North Lake Tahoe adventures, Eagle Rock Trail is just 0.7 mile all in. It’s the definition of a short but sweet hike as you head up through forest to the apex of Eagle Rock—a marquee vantage for seeing glorious Lake Tahoe.

North Lake Tahoe’s best hikes

Wheel the Love

With biking’s surge in popularity, find your new favorite ride in North Lake Tahoe. Backcountry single-track trails take you through pure wilderness.

Parks plus paved paths make for scenic and simple pedals. Be car free and carefree along the Truckee River between Tahoe City and Olympic Valley.

For a beach hopping pedal take the Tahoe East Shore Trail and ride a picturesque 3 miles along the shore. The trail is pretty mellow with just a bit of an uphill section. Hop off to enjoy lakeside beauty on the beach and grab a bit to eat or drink at the Tunnel Creek Café once you head back.

Book a road or mountain bike tour with pro guides who know the lay of the land and can get you kitted for an outstanding adventure.

For those who like refreshing pit stops along their bike journey, The North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail lets you pair your pedal with craft brews flavored for fall.

Go biking in North Lake Tahoe.

Ride your bike to a beer fest. Tahoe City is hosting Oktoberfest on September 21. The Bavarian-themed day is also kid-friendly (pumpkin painting and face painting feature into the day). Adults can taste craft beers from microbreweries in the region and have a commemorative Oktoberfest beer glass. Live music, food, and games round out the festivities.

See all upcoming North Lake Tahoe events.

Enjoy Some Town Time (+ Downtime)

Make your downtime town time. With 12 distinct towns to choose from, explore the options and mix it up. Whether you’re seeking a casual alpine setting by fire pits in Olympic Village, with beverages and s’mores, or prefer your fire pits to be lakeside with food service, North Lake Tahoe meets your mood.

Where to Eat and Drink in North Lake Tahoe.

Relax at the beach. The only hard part is choosing your favorite one! North Lake Tahoe’s lighter autumn crowds mean extra room for some shore stuff around the lake. With an average of 274 days of sunshine, you’re going to soak in plenty of Vitamin D.

Bring a picnic to 64 Acres Beach and Park. Enjoy it beside the lake, or take the paved path to the park’s river side, where you can find multiple launch points for kayaks or paddleboards. Have a floating picnic (just be sure to pack out what you pack in). There are picnic tables too, if you prefer to stay on land.

North Lake Tahoe has dog-friendly beaches, like Chambers Landing. Find additional dog-friendly beaches and those best for families, picnics and more, including best bets for sunsets and romance.

Find more North Lake Tahoe beaches.

Make a Clear Difference

North Lake Tahoe is beloved by residents and visitors for so many reasons. The crystalline water of its signature lake, high-rising peaks, beautiful beaches, and fragrant forests are all helped when we commit to responsible travel. Small acts help in big ways! From using refillable water bottles, to picking up after your pet, and keeping a safe distance while viewing wildlife (plus not feeding them), you are participating in sustainable travel. Here are some ways to Make a Clear Difference.

The bottom line is, North Lake Tahoe would love to have you!

When you decide to visit, be sure to look at North Lake Tahoe’s Know Before You Go page. And please take the Traveler Responsibility Pledge and commit to preserving the natural wonders of the Sierra Nevada.

Here is the full list of places to stay when you visit North Lake Tahoe. Extend your stay with weekdays and experience plenty of open space and serenity outdoors.

Oh yeah, you’re going to fall for North Lake Tahoe!