Visiting North Lake Tahoe affords many possible activities, sights to see, and places to explore. Planning will allow you to ensure that you visit all of the important places and see everything that’s worth your time. A destination like this is known for skiing, the lake, and outdoor activities, but there’s a lot more than that in the area.
Also in the Lake Tahoe region, and especially North Lake Tahoe, you’ll find some great shopping and dining in areas like Kings Beach and Tahoe City. Whether you divide the activities by seasons or just look to see what’s popular, you’ll quickly learn that there is no shortage of options when it comes to spending a week in the North Lake Tahoe area.
What to See and Do
There is something for just about everyone in this region that’s designed specifically for visitors, including just as much art and culture as there are outdoor activities, which is surprising to many. Before you plan your week in the Tahoe area, make sure you consider adding the following stops to your agenda.
Granlibakken Adventure Park
This treetop adventure park is one-of-a-kind and the first in California, featuring a selection of courses with zip lines, bridges, and former ski sites that have been turned into various outdoor adventures. For those who are looking for a little more adventure, this park delivers everything that you want.
Tahoe Trail
This trail is great for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Located just outside of town, the Tahoe Trail covers plenty of unique terrain, giving everyone the chance to explore the beauty of the area any way that they would like.
Shopping
If it’s shopping you seek, head over to King’s Beach or Heavenly Village, where you’ll find plenty of great local shops and stores selling unique arts and crafts, handmade wares, clothing, gifts, and everything else that you need. Check out local flea markets and farmer’s markets during the summer and fall months, as well. The Boatworks Mall is located lakeside, featuring year-round dining, shopping, and specialty stores. It’s also the only enclosed lakefront shopping mall on Lake Tahoe’s North Shore.
High Camp Hot Tubs
At the former 1960s Olympic site in Squaw Valley, there’s now a camp that features great skiing and easy access to other winter activities, with an impressively-oversized hot tub located near the Olympic rings. It’s just yards from the slopes, meaning you can ditch the skis and hit the tub before you have to think about it.
Hike the Pacific Crest Trail
This is the world’s longest hiking trail that stretches almost 2,700 miles through three states, touching both Canada and Mexico on either end. It runs through the Lake Tahoe area and includes many smaller hikes that can be enjoyed for day trips and those staying in the area.
Although you’re sure to find plenty to keep you busy while you’re in the area, these are just a few of the biggest things that should be on your list if you truly want to make the most of your week in the North Lake Tahoe area.
Where to Dine
This region is known for a variety of dining options, from upscale eateries to local diners and everything in between. If you want to make the most of your time, try something new every day or as often as you can. That way, you’ll cover as much ground as possible. As far as must-go places, locals and critics alike recommend Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge for lakeside dining, the Fire Sign Café if you want to feel like a local, and the Lone Eagle Grille.
Other popular restaurants in the North Lake Tahoe area include:
- Moe’s Original Bar B Que
- Pianeta
- Rivergrill
- Char-pit
- Drunken Monkey
- FiftyFifty Brewing Co.
- Jake’s on the Lake
Whether you’re looking for great local cuisine or alfresco dining overlooking Lake Tahoe, you’ll find something for every mood and taste. There are upscale dining options and family-friendly restaurants alike, along with the familiar surge of gastropubs and brewing companies that many cities are seeing in recent times.
You’ll never go hungry or thirsty when you’re staying in this region.
When to Travel
There are some times of year that are better than others to travel to the North Lake Tahoe area. Although you don’t have to wait until the winter months for great skiing, you might not enjoy a fishing excursion in January—unless you’re into ice fishing, that is. Ultimately, the tourist season in the area never stops because there are activities and things to do in all seasons in the Lake Taho region.
Look into the types of activities that you want to enjoy on your vacation. Consider special events and seasonal festivals that you might want to attend, as well. Some things are only available on a seasonal basis, so you’ll want to make sure that you travel at a time when it’s convenient and when you can see and do everything on your list.
Where to Stay
While you’re in the area, you’ll find many local chain hotels and luxury resorts, but they’re usually filled with tourists and don’t give you all of the amenities and space that you want. Instead, check out renting a private luxury villa that you can call your own. You’ll be able to get out and explore and come home at the end of the day to a quiet place that is just yours.
Many of these villas are furnished with hot tubs, pools, game rooms, premium entertainment, and more. Plus, they’re located all over the area, offering convenient access and plenty of privacy. These private rentals also include dedicated concierge service so that your every need is taken care of, 24 hours a day. Anyone who wants to get more out of their next vacation can always count on a private rental or holiday villa to give them the exclusivity that they need.
To learn more or book your next visit to North Lake Tahoe, visit Isle Blue.