Five Ways to Elevate Your Summer in North Lake Tahoe

North Lake Tahoe's 5 Best Summer Adventures

1) Best Day Hikes in the State

North Lake Tahoe has some of California’s best day hikes. The Five Lakes Trail rises to 7,400 feet in the Granite Chief Wilderness and connects to a series of lakes. Or opt for Shirley Canyon Falls, hiking alongside waterfalls and granite boulders while soaking in views of Squaw Valley (Pro Tip: The trail starts at the base of Squaw Valley, but post-hike you can take the tram down at no cost—ticket is free for going down only!). And don’t miss the panoramas from the summit of Mount Judah. We could go on … See more top hikes in North Lake Tahoe.

2) End It with Beer!

Beer just tastes a little bit better after getting outdoors. The Lake Tahoe Ale Trail interactive map connects your hikes, bike rides, and beach hops to craft breweries and other hotspots for grabbing a beer and a bite. Hover over the beer icons for detailed itineraries, like the easy 11-mile Squaw Valley to Tahoe City Loop alongside the Truckee River with an Ale Trail stop at Rocker@Squaw. See other Ale Trail adventure itineraries.

3) Paddle the Best of Big Blue

Lake Tahoe has a big shoreline: 72 miles of it! And the north side has some excellent access points—from Kings Beach to Tahoe City—where sandy beaches and rocky inlets make great spots for kayakers, paddleboarders, and non-motorized watercraft. The Lake Tahoe Water Trail guide shows you the best places to get out on the lake and paddle the crystal waters, pulling up for beach breaks in quiet coves and more.

4) Sundowners

Where do you like to watch a sunset? North Lake Tahoe has all the options. Dip your toes in the sand and kick back on the beach with live music and a glass of wine. Relax by a fire pit with a cocktail. Have dinner on a lakeside patio, or watch a show on the shoreline. Find the best places to take in North Lake Tahoe’s sunsets.

5) Festivals!

From outdoor summer movies at Squaw Valley to Concerts at Commons Beach, there’s always something going on in North Lake Tahoe. One of the biggest events of the year, the Autumn Food & Wine Festival is happening September 7 – 9. See the events and festivals in North Lake Tahoe.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View