If you’re looking to embark on a Sacramento to Reno drive, you’ve come to the right place. The open road, sky-high emerald green trees, snow capped mountains and the feeling of anticipation for fun days ahead. What’s not to love?
One of the best road trips from Sacramento is undoubtedly the drive to Reno Tahoe. The Sacramento to Reno drive is only about 2 hours long, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Since Reno Tahoe is close, those planning a day trip from Sacramento should also plan to stay a while if you’re heading to the Biggest Little City.
Need some trip planning inspo? Below are some of our favorite things to do in Reno Tahoe.
Best Road Trips from Sacramento
Lake Tahoe
Ready to experience a lake like no other? Take a detour from your trek to Reno and dip your toes in Big Blue. We love Kings Beach, Sand Harbor and Hidden Beach, to name a few. All of these beaches are located along the north and eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, making them an easy detour on your way from Sacramento to Reno.
Planning a beach day during your stay in Reno Tahoe? Check out more beaches in Reno Tahoe here.
Truckee
Need a pit stop? Truckee, CA is a unique and vibrant mountain town nestled in the Sierra Nevada. Located right off of I-80, it’s a perfect place to grab a bite to eat, visit a local brewery or browse the local shops in downtown Truckee.
MidTown Reno
Once you make it to Reno, spend the day like a local in Reno’s MidTown District and enjoy tons of boutiques, vibrant murals and countless can’t-miss MidTown Reno restaurants and bars. MidTown is one of the fastest-growing spots in Reno, and it shows. With so much good food, you won’t leave hungry. Beer lovers and cocktail enthusiasts will enjoy a seemingly endless variety of trendy pubs and cocktail bars to choose from.
Hot Springs
Did you know that Nevada is home to over 300 natural hot springs? For those looking to get in touch with nature, embark on an adventure to find a natural hot spring and enjoy Nevada’s breathtaking terrain while submerged in the rich mineral water of a hot springs bath.
There are also several hot spring resorts in Reno Tahoe if adventuring isn’t on the agenda. To learn more, check out our Guide to Northern Nevada Hot Springs.
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Stay the Night in Reno
Hotels and Lodging
With so many things to do in Reno Tahoe, you’re going to want to stay for more than a day. From pet-friendly hotels to LGBTQ+ hotels to casinos, there is plenty of lodging to choose from to set the vibe for your trip.
Other places to stay include vacation rentals, campgrounds and RV parks. However you’re traveling, there’s lodging for you.
FAQs
The drive from Sacramento to Reno covers approximately 130 miles and typically takes around 2 hours under normal conditions. However, travel time can vary depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions. During winter, snow in the Sierra Nevada can lead to delays, requiring chains or all-wheel drive. In contrast, summer offers a smoother drive with scenic mountain views. The road trip from Sacramento can be done easily as a day trip, but we would recommend staying a while!
Make a weekend out of it and stay at one of countless Reno and Lake Tahoe hotels.
You'll need to take I-80 for the Sacramento to Reno drive. However, it's important to check road conditions during the winter season, as I-80 can sometimes be closed due to snow or other weather-related issues.
The distance from Sacramento to North Lake Tahoe (Incline Village) is about 119 miles and will take you about 2 hours by car without traffic or pit stops. The distance from Sacramento to Reno is about 132 miles and will take you about 2 hours and 15 minutes by car.
The drive from Sacramento to Reno is a great way to experience a road trip. Wind through the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains and enjoy stops along the way, including Truckee, Donner Lake and Lake Tahoe!
Need to stretch your legs? Explore the countless Reno hiking and Lake Tahoe hiking trails available to get some fresh air before jumping back behind the wheel.
Looking to ride the rails? Amtrak offers the California Zephyr, a train that makes stops in Sacramento and Reno. This trip takes you from the rolling hills of Northern California to the majestic mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
The train ride from Sacramento to Reno is a trip every mountain lover must make. While the drive from Sacramento to Reno is breathtakingly beautiful, the train ride fully immerses travelers in the beauty of the Sierras as it winds right through the mountainous terrain. The California Zephyr also offers stops in San Francisco, Colorado and even Chicago. Those looking to make many stops can enjoy sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge, California wine country, Lake Tahoe, Reno and Donner Memorial State Park – all in one trip!