While Reno Tahoe proudly embraces all four seasons (sometimes you’ll experience a few seasons in a single day!), there’s one constant about our weather: sunshine. With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, we’ve got our fill of Vitamin D and we know how to use it! So, whether you’re the outdoorsy adventurer or more of a laid-back traveler, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the Reno Tahoe sun.
Sugar, We’re Going Down(hill)
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, we know a thing or two about downhill adventures. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, be sure to check out the various mountain bike trails around Reno Tahoe. Don’t worry, there are options for both novice riders and experienced downhill seekers. For our winter crew, you might already know that Reno Tahoe boasts the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America. The combination of world-class slopes, a variety of terrain and a bluebird sky is unbeatable. The most adventurous and experienced skiers are invited into the Lake Tahoe backcountry to earn their turns.
Take a Hike
Many of our visitors dream of the downhill, but we also know that the climb can lead to some pretty epic views. Soak up some vitamin D on foot and plan a hike near Reno or Lake Tahoe. Pro tip: if you’re planning a visit in the fall, check out these spots to see fall foliage. For a unique way to experience our terrain, catch a tour on horseback or don some snowshoes if you’re planning a trip during the winter.
Make a Splash
When in Reno Tahoe, a day on the water is a must. Mix sunshine, H20 and your vehicle of choice for the perfect activity. Paddleboard along the shores of Lake Tahoe or in the Sparks Marina, book a clear kayak tour in Sand Harbor or whitewater kayak through downtown Reno on the Truckee River. With 300+ days of sunshine, even the cooler days can feel warmer than expected, so don’t hesitate to cruise on the water in the off-season, too! For those looking to get a little wetter, book a whitewater rafting tour from one of the many guides in our region.
Don’t Forget to Chill
If some chill time in the sun is what you’re after, we’ve got just the trick. We’re not all high-speed, always-on-the-go here in Reno Tahoe. We know how to relax, too! If you’re really jonesing for some sunshine, snag a spot on one of the many Lake Tahoe beaches and catch some rays. If you’re looking for something close to downtown, spend an afternoon at one of our parks for some easy-to-access nature.
Get Your Game On
So, you’ve got a competitive side? Let’s embrace it! Book a tee time and spend the day on the golf course with your crew. With more than 50 courses within a 90-minute drive to choose from, you’ll have plenty of chances to catch some rays and show off your swing. And at our elevation, they say golf balls fly 10 percent farther. You’re welcome.
If you prefer to leave the competition to the pros, cheer on the Reno Aces, Reno’s Triple-A baseball team, at Greater Nevada Field. The Aceball season runs from March to early September, which are prime sunshine months in Reno Tahoe!
Where Art Thou?
We bet you already knew that Reno Tahoe is home to some top-notch skiing, an incredible lake and high-stakes casinos, but what about our arts scene? With influence from Burning Man creatives and being home to Nevada’s only accredited art museum, we know art. Check out the public art scattered throughout Reno and Sparks, like larger-than-life Burning Man sculptures and murals painted by local artists. We’ve even got art on our electrical boxes! If you’re interested in a more curated experience, book a guided tour with Travel Pineapple pedicabs.
Let’s Eat!
No matter how you choose to embrace the Reno Tahoe sunshine, you’re going to want to fuel up properly. Fortunately, finding a good meal doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your time in the sun. Pull up a chair at one of these foodie favorites with outdoor seating (pro tip - book a waterfront table for bonus points). For a choose-your-own-adventure that will satisfy all the appetites in your group, check out one of our food truck events to sample a variety of cuisines.
Check Out Our Events
Every destination claims to have great events, but Reno Tahoe takes it to a whole new level. We host hundreds of events every year, but our “iconic events” are the can’t-miss annual events that simply must have a spot on your calendar. Think a month-long arts festival, a rib cook-off and the Reno Rodeo. And good news, every single iconic event is outdoors, so you can continue working on your sun-kissed glow while you have your fun.
If you’re searching for live music, Reno Tahoe has a handful of outdoor music venues hosting shows year-round. That’s right, you can catch a country concert at the Nugget Event Center in Sparks or bang your head to an EDM show at the J Resort’s Glow Plaza on New Year’s Eve. We don’t discriminate!
Don’t Forget Your Pup
If you prefer to travel solo or with two-legged companions, that’s your right. But nobody loves the Reno Tahoe sunshine quite like our furry friends. Pack up your pooch and visit one of the destination’s dog-friendly trails, parks and beaches. Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on accommodations. Dine at any of our dog-friendly restaurants and rest your head (and paws) at these pet-friendly hotels.
Take The Scenic Route
Whew! That’s a lot of ways to soak up some Reno Tahoe sun. And while all that sounds pretty epic, sometimes you just want to crank up the tunes and go for a drive. We totally get it. Lucky for you, Lake Tahoe has 72 miles of shoreline to drive, and you won’t regret checking out the scenery from every angle. It’s an easy way to enjoy the beautiful weather without having to do much of, well, anything.
More than 300 days of sunshine every year means more than 300 opportunities to soak up everything Reno Tahoe has to offer. Inspired? Start planning your next visit today.
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