When you think of your dream destination, is it more sweat than spa? More thrill than chill? Then Lake Tahoe is where you should head for your next outdoor getaway.
The Best Outdoor Adventures in Lake Tahoe for Thrill-Seekers
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top outdoor adventures in Lake Tahoe. Get insider tips on the classics, from snow- and watersports to rock climbing and ziplining. Plus, discover hidden gems you didn’t know you could try here, like scuba diving, paragliding and helicopter tours. These aren’t just any ol’ things to do — they’re what the locals love.
This outdoor playground is packed with adrenaline-pumping activities and jaw-dropping scenery. You’ll find yourself breathless in the best way. Here are the top activities we’d recommend if you’re looking to fill your weekend with outdoor adventure in Lake Tahoe:
Hiking in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe’s hiking trails are as rugged as they are scenic. Lace up your boots and take on the wild with these trails:
- Warm up on the easy, 2.5-mile trail at Spooner Lake. Traveling with your dog? They can come, too! Just make sure they’re leashed. When you’re ready to break a sweat, there are plenty of nearby trails, like Marlette Lake.
- Tackle the 9.6-mile Mount Tallac Trail for sweeping alpine views that’ll test your endurance. Snow or sunshine, you’ll want to bring your camera.
- The Mt. Rose Peak Trail is a 10-mile, out-and-back route that gives you views of the Lake Tahoe basin from the top. On the way down, you can veer off the fork in the road to hike by a waterfall.
- Bayview Trail to Velma Lakes is a 10.6-mile, out-and-back hiking trail near South Lake Tahoe. While the trek is mostly uphill, the picturesque lake view will make it all worth it.
- Staying in Incline Village? Head out on the 2.6-mile, moderately challenging Monkey Rock Trail near Incline Village. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the iconic monkey-shaped rock!
Skiing, Snowboarding & Snowshoeing
Winter warriors, come through! People from all over the world travel to Lake Tahoe to ski and snowboard here. Lake Tahoe’s slopes cater to adventure junkies. Picture fresh powder totally untouched in the backcountry. Groomed, wide-open trails if you’d rather go cross-country. Vertical drops that jumpstart your heart. Incredible terrain parks with jumps, rails and pipes. Keep your eyes peeled: Lake views will catch your eye just as you set off on your next run.
Get the inside scoop on the most epic ski resorts and locals’ favorite runs by reading our ski guide.
If you think that snowshoeing is a leisurely stroll in the snow, you’re in for a surprise. In Lake Tahoe, it’s an epic adventure that takes you off the beaten path. Trek through deep snow and climb ridges for panoramic views. There are plenty of guided tours available from places like Northstar California, Tahoe Adventure Company and more. (Pro tip: Sierra State Parks Foundation is the only business offering snowshoe tours beneath the full moon! Check out their calendar for info.)
Need some gear? You’ve got options:
- Rent directly from the business giving you a snowshoe tour.
- Swing by the nearest ski resort, as many rent winter equipment.
- Head into Reno and visit BoBos Ski & Board for a rental.
Mountain Biking
Here, grit meets glory. So, get ready to leave your limits in the dust. Whether you're chasing technical challenges or an epic singletrack, Lake Tahoe has a mountain biking trail to meet your ambition. Here are our top recommendations:
- Tyrolean Point-to-Point Trail: A moderately difficult mountain bike trail in Incline Village that’s short, but still enough work to make you dig deep
- Flume Trail: A 14-mile, bucket-list ride with steep climbs, stunning views and narrow paths perched high above the lake
- Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride: Sounds like a ride you’d find at Disneyland, but is actually a highly advanced 9-mile mountain bike trail in South Lake Tahoe
- Tahoe Rim Trail (Kingsbury to Spooner): A grueling stretch of the TRT with jaw-dropping scenery and challenging terrain for just over 11 miles
Kayaking & SUP
Who said you can’t get a workout in while on vacation? Flex your core and make a splash during your weekend getaway to Lake Tahoe. Kayak and SUP rentals are available all around the lake, so it’s up to you to choose which beach you want to start at. Really, you can’t go wrong. Top spots for kayaking and paddleboarding include the following:
- In North Lake Tahoe: Sand Harbor, Kings Beach and Carnelian Bay Beach
- In South Lake Tahoe: Zephyr Cove, Emerald Bay, the iconic Fannette Island and Kiva Beach
Rock Climbing
Scale granite walls as you maneuver up cracks and crimp holds to reach the top. (Don’t forget to watch out for any critters hiding!) Take on boulder problems that test your grit and upper body strength. With each hold, you’ll climb higher, earning epic views and a few bragging rights.
Where do locals love to climb in Lake Tahoe? We’re glad you asked.
- For beginners and intermediate climbers interested in bouldering and top rope: Castle Rock, Woodfords Canyon, River Rock and 90 Foot Wall
- For advanced climbers and anyone into sports crag: Mayhem Cove
- For those willing to drive further and meet adventure where it lives: Washoe Boulders near Carson City, Lover’s Leap and Donner Summit
Aerial Adventure Park Featuring Zip Lines
Harness up and kiss gravity goodbye. Be sure to let out a scream when you push off — it’s tradition. Whether you’re setting off for an outdoor adventure with your family or your friends, Tahoe Treetop Adventures is an awesome activity to experience while you’re in the area.
Every course features multiple zip lines — but don’t expect a passive ride. Here, zip lines are just one part of the challenge. You’ll zip between tree platforms, navigate wobbly bridges, climb rope ladders and tackle obstacles that test your agility.
Outdoor Activities in Lake Tahoe That Take Your Vacation to the Next Level
Outdoor enthusiasts like you crave the unexpected. On a weekend trip, you want your mind to be blown. That’s why we’ve included hidden gems that go beyond ordinary attractions.
Paragliding, Parasailing, Hang-Gliding – Oh My
Strap in and take to the sky with Lake Tahoe Paragliding in Incline Village. You’ll glide above the sparkling blue waters, surrounded by epic mountain views. Choose from a solo or tandem ride.
If you’re down to try parasailing, head to Action Watersports in South Lake Tahoe, where you can soar hundreds of feet above the lake and feel the rush of the open air. They have a couple of locations that they take off from, so make sure to double-check when booking.
Carson City’s glider tours take your sense of adventure to new heights — literally. With just the wind beneath your plane wings, you’ll glide peacefully while soaking up panoramic views you won’t find anywhere else. Fly with an FAA-certified ride pilot guide or take control yourself.
Step off the edge, and let Lake Tahoe’s alpine air launch you into a breathtaking hang-gliding experience. With glittering blue waters below and towering peaks around you, this is the kind of thrill that leaves you buzzing long after your feet touch the ground.
Also include glider tours out of Carson - https://soaringnv.com/ - and hang gliding - https://hangglidingtahoe.com/
Helicopter Tours
Is there any better way to live out your action movie fantasy than flying in a helicopter? Book one of six available tours with Tahoe Helicopters and enjoy stunning aerial views you’ve only seen in photographs. They range from 10 to 45 minutes depending on the destination. The best part is you can embark on this Lake Tahoe adventure any time of the year.
All of these tours are likely to sell out, so make a reservation well in advance of your weekend getaway.
Scuba Diving
With water temperature fluctuating between 40 to 70°F on average year round, we bet you didn’t know you could scuba dive here. It’s a challenge — but one we know you’re up for. Adventure Scuba offers a variety of dive classes to choose from based on your level of skill, and they can take you to several different dive sites. The protected cove in Sand Harbor is recommended for beginners, but if this isn’t your first rodeo, check out the sunken sailboat that’s 25 feet deep in Hurricane Bay.
Snowmobiling
If you can’t get enough snow, we won’t blame you. Snowmobiling is an exhilarating way to see Lake Tahoe. People of all ages will have a blast on a guided tour, offered by several businesses: Sierra Adventures, Lake Tahoe Snowmobile Tours and Coldstream Adventures. You’ll go full-throttle across pristine meadows, along winding trails and up snow-covered ridges with spectacular vista points. It’s the perfect way to fuel your winter wanderlust.
Lodging: Where Adventurous Days Meet Laid-Back Nights
After a full day of exploring Lake Tahoe’s trails, beaches and ski slopes, you’ll need a spot that lets you kick back. Whether it’s a lakefront hideaway or a basecamp near the action, these lodging options are made for adventurers like you.
- Adventure doesn’t just have to be outside! Explore all the modern amenities and settle into a cozy bed at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and Casino.
- Just minutes from all the exciting outdoor activities in Lake Tahoe is The Incline Lodge. Release your inner adventurer and return at the end of the night to this modern crash pad.
- With plenty of beds, comfy space to lounge and a grill on the back deck, you and the crew are sure to enjoy this vacation rental in Incline Village: Tasteful Tahoe.
- Looking for a vacation rental located within walking distance of Lake Tahoe? Or just 10 minutes from a ski resort? Pinot Creek is just the spot. It has a full kitchen, a workspace and a washer/dryer.
If you want to extend your adventure into Reno, you can see more places to stay here.
It’s Time to Check Off Items on Your Bucket List
The outdoor adventures you’ll find here excite the senses. Listen to the wildlife as you explore rugged mountain trails on foot or in the saddle. Feel the powder blow back as you shred down a double black diamond. If you dare, wade into the chilly, crystal-clear waters that beckon you. Now that you know what you’re in for, bring your whole crew, your furry friend or just pack a bag and head out solo. Lake Tahoe adventures await.