Drive to Lake Tahoe
Pack up the car and head up the western side of Lake Tahoe for an unforgettable drive filled with breathtaking views. Lake Tahoe, one of the nation’s most beautiful destinations, basks in nearly 300 days of annual sunshine. Essentially nature’s playground for adventure enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy just about any recreational activity while breathing in the fresh Sierra Nevada Mountain air or wading through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. Located near the California-Nevada border, this iconic destination provides something for everyone – so buckle up, drop the top and get your “Sierra” on.
Best Car for this Road Trip: Convertible
Drive around Lake Tahoe’s shoreline in a car perfect for your road trip by renting at one of our many neighborhood locations. Flying in? No problem! Get going as soon as possible and pick up your rental car at the airport.
1. Tallac Historic Site
Tallac Historic Site
Step back in time and explore the historic estates of four wealthy families from the Gilded Age. Home to a collection of 1920s summer homes, Tallac Historic Site also features lush gardens, pine trees, a pebble-coated shore and beautiful lake views. History buffs can check out restored buildings and ruins from decades past or take a tour of the museum. The preserved land boasts gorgeous trails and a dose of quiet, serene local history that makes for an ideal stop while driving to Lake Tahoe.
- Tip: Although the site is open to visitors year-round, tours and special services are only available Thursday to Sunday from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend (reservations are recommended)
- Cost: Free to visit the site; Tours are an additional fee of $15/adults, $10/seniors, military and students and free/ages 10 and under
- Dog Friendly: Dogs are allowed on the trails but aren’t permitted in the buildings
2. Eagle Falls
Eagle Falls
Featuring some of California’s most striking landscapes, Eagle Falls Trail and Eagle Lake Loop provide an experience worth the two-mile round trip hike. Located within Emerald Bay State Park, visitors will encounter cascading waterfalls, lush foliage, majestic views of the Sierra high country and the opportunity to explore Vikingsholm Castle. Open year-round, this trail is ideal for those short on time but still wanting to experience the breathtaking vistas that overlook the pristine Emerald Bay.
- Tip: Arrive early as parking is limited
- Cost: Limited parking is available for $5/vehicle (cash only)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
3. Bliss State Park
Bliss State Park
Located on the southwest side of Lake Tahoe, this beautiful park provides visitors with beaches, campsites and epic views of the lake. Sink your toes in the sand at Lester Beach, a great place to launch your watercraft or step inside Calawee Cove for a little respite from the sun above. If you want to cover some ground within Bliss State Park, take a hike along the Rubicon Trail, Balancing Rock Trail or Lighthouse Trail. The fresh water and white sand beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and taking in the sights.
- Tip: Research campsite numbers before booking as size and locations can vary
- Cost: Parking is $10/vehicle; Campsites are $45/beachfront, $35/standard, $7/hike & bike
- Dog Friendly: Yes, but only in developed areas such as paved roads, campsites and picnic areas – dogs aren’t allowed on the beaches or dirt trails
4. Donner Memorial State Park
Donner Memorial State Park
Take some time to learn about the first settlers of California and the many struggles they faced along the way. The memorial covers the tragic story of the Donner Party, a group of 89 migrating pioneers trapped by heavy Sierra Nevada snowfall and forced to make difficult decisions to survive the winter months. This informative museum also includes exhibits highlighting Native Americans, Chinese immigrants, the Central Pacific Railroad and the construction of Interstate 80 over the famous Donner Pass. In addition to covering some of the west coast’s most infamous history, visitors will encounter a variety of recreational opportunities and fantastic views of the lake at Donner Memorial State Park.
- Tip: After your visit, take the short drive to Donner Lake for an intimate view of the landscape
- Cost: Free admission; $10/vehicle for parking (May-September), $5/vehicle (October-April)
- Dog Friendly: Yes, but dogs aren’t allowed in the museum or Visitor Center
5. Kings Beach
Kings Beach
Home to 1,700 feet of pristine lakefront beach, Kings Beach State Recreation Area provides a refreshing playground for Lake Tahoe visitors. Located on the North Shore of the lake, the white sand gradually ascends into the water for one of the warmest wading areas of Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop to stretch your legs or a place for an afternoon picnic, Kings Beach offers outdoor enthusiasts the perfect place to enjoy waterfront fun.
- Tip: Wear water shoes or beach-appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot in the summer
- Cost: Parking fee of $3/hour or $10/vehicle per day (May-September), $3/hour or $5/vehicle per day (October-April)
- Dog Friendly: Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach; however, east of the park is Dog Beach, an area designated for four-legged friends
FAQs for Your Road Trip to Lake Tahoe
To avoid the busy summer season from June through August, we recommend driving to Lake Tahoe from March to May or from September to November. If you’re more concerned about the weather than the crowds, visit from June through September for the area’s dry season full of alpine sunshine.
Yes! Lake Tahoe features a variety of beaches and recreation areas that are perfect for watersports. We recommend finding a shallow entrance point if you’re looking to swim in the lake. Selecting a beach with a gradual slope into the lake will often be warmer for swimming.
If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe during the winter, we suggest a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive SUV whenever possible; any car will suffice during the springtime and a convertible is a great option for sightseeing in the summer. Although driving to Lake Tahoe is a beautiful experience year-round, the roads to Lake Tahoe may be slick and dangerous during the snowy months.
Driving to Lake Tahoe is as safe, although these roads may be challenging during winter. Keep in mind that Lake Tahoe has a winter driving requirement of Level 2, which requires tire chains or traction devices on all non-4-wheel drive vehicles.
Without stopping, it takes about three hours to drive around Lake Tahoe. Although this scenic drive is only 72 miles, make sure to take in the epic views along the way.
