Unforgettable Lake Tahoe Summer Activities
Whether you’re looking to spend time in the mountains or enjoy laidback lakeside activities, summers in Lake Tahoe are said to be unforgettable. So as I plan my Lake Tahoe summer vacation, I’ve teamed up with Hotels.com to share the Lake Tahoe summer activities I’m most excited about for our first trip.
Approximately 3 hours from San Francisco and Pacifica, Lake Tahoe straddles both California and Nevada. Popular throughout the year, it is known for snowboarding and skiing in the winter and watersports, biking, and hiking in the summer. Lake Tahoe is the largest freshwater alpine lake in North America, and the summer months are the best time to experience the region’s natural beauty.
From cabins and lodges to resorts and chalets, stay at Lake Tahoe neighborhoods like Tahoe Tyrol, Lakeside Park, or North Upper Truckee. There are hundreds of lodging options to choose from in South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe.
Although restrictions are easing up in California and Nevada, stay updated with the latest health and safety regulations. Please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. Make reservations and purchase tickets in advance whenever possible.
Things To Do In Lake Tahoe In Summer
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Featured photo by North Lake Tahoe Tourism Board
Crystal Kayak Experience
Are you looking for a unique way to experience Lake Tahoe this summer? If you enjoy paddling, don’t miss the chance to float in a transparent kayak or SUP. Wild Society is the only rental company in the greater North Lake Tahoe region that offers transparent kayaks that allow for unobstructed turquoise water views. These clear-bottom kayaks are also decked out with wireless waterproof speakers so you can play your favorite tunes or listen to a travel podcast. Then, spend up to four hours sailing the north side of Lake Tahoe.
Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay
Step back in time and tour the 38-room Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay. Built in the mid 1900s, this historic landmark was inspired by Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight’s time at the Scandinavian fjords. Inside you’ll find different antiques and replicas from Scandinavia as well as well-preserved rooms. Don’t miss the stone tea house on Fanette Island.
Hike To Shirley Canyon
For scenic hiking and panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, hike to Shirley Canyon or take a 10-minute aerial tram ride to High Camp for a 360-degree bird’s-eye-view of the Sierra. At High Camp, stop at the Olympic Museum, which displays Squaw Valley’s memorabilia collection from the 1960 Winter Olympics.
If you prefer to hike, start your climb at Village at Squaw Valley and follow the trails through the waterfalls and meadows covered with wildflowers. Savor the breathtaking views of the mountain peaks and creeks. Use the Squaw Alpine app for real-time mountain updates and hiking maps. Hikes range from easy to difficult.
Aerial Trek Through Forests
Prefer to have your feet firmly planted off the ground? Then, navigate wobbly bridges, tightropes, and swinging logs as you aerial trek or zipline at Tahoe Treetops Adventure Park. Visit any three locations, including Tahoe City Treetop, Squaw Valley Treetop, and Tahoe Vista Treetop.
Have you been to Lake Tahoe? What Lake Tahoe summer activities should we not miss? Leave a comment below and let us know!

Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast, where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.
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