Five ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe this Summer
Lake Tahoe has truly got it all. Surrounded by some of the best ski resorts in the West, it might just seem like a place reserved for Winter vacations but don’t overlook the lake. Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains are filled with summer activities that will keep you breathing hard all the way down to the lake for a dip. With a little something for everyone, Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to head to for some summer fun.
1. Gondola Rides
Head over to Heavenly and take a scenic ride up the Heavenly Mountain Gondola. The views of Lake Tahoe are even better in the summer on this 2.4 mile ride to the top of Heavenly. Take a break at the midpoint station to take some photos at the observation deck that looks across Lake Tahoe or go to the top for some spectacular views and beers at Bar 9150’ located in Tamarack Lodge. Want to do some hiking before delving into a few brews? No worries! Bring your gondola ticket over to Tamarack Express Chairlift located at the top of the gondola do get a free ride up for even more views and hiking trails for every skill level.
While you’re there remember to check out the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster. Fitting up to two riders per sled, this gravity-powered roller coaster offers exhilarating views as you fly past trees and rocks on your way down.
2. Sail on the Sierra Cloud
If water activities are more your style, you have to catch a ride on the Sierra Cloud Catamaran. There’s nothing like exploring the northern part of Lake Tahoe then on the back on one of these sailing machines. Take a seat in one of their padded chairs or relax lying down on the cool mesh as you watch the water move underneath you. With trips lasting two hours and beverages and snacks being served on board, this is a perfect way to spend a few hours on the water.
3. Emerald Bay State Park
If there’s one state park you’re able to get to when you’re at Lake Tahoe it has to be Emerald Bay State Park. Offering one of the best views of Lake Tahoe, along with a variety of different historical and natural attractions, this park has got it all. You can head on over to Emerald Bay Lookout to catch one of the best views of Lake Tahoe, or if you’re more into history you can check out the Vikingsholm. Constructed in the 1920’s from materials surrounding the house, this old summer home is one of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture in the country.
4. Kings Beach State Recreation Area
A trip to Lake Tahoe wouldn’t be complete without at least one day at the beach! Kings Beach is one of the most popular beach spots in North Tahoe and with good reason. Grab a drink or some slices of pizza at Whitecaps Pizza while enjoying the crashing of the waves or rent some jet skis and paddle boards at the Tahoe Aquatic Center to explore a little deeper into the lake. Kids will love the white sandy beaches and surprising warmer water than most other parts of Lake Tahoe, thanks to the beaches southern facing direction and it’s mellow depths. No matter what you’re into, there’s a little something for everyone.
5. Climb the Tahoe Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata, which means Iron Road in Italian, is a wild (but safe) hiking and climbing experience that lets adventures scale across one of Squaw Valley’s most popular rock faces, the Tram Face. Slowly make your way through this crazy trail filled with permanent steel anchors and cables that allow you to stay attached to the rock at all times while you’re guided by one of the many experts over at Alpenglow Expeditions. Afterwards make sure to head over to the new Tram Car Bar located in Squaw Valley Village for some refreshments and if you’re an Ikon passholder make sure you show them your Ikon pass on the weekends to get your complimentary back scratcher.
No matter if you’re going to North or South Tahoe this summer, make sure to use Ski Butlers to help plan your trip in the Winter. Want to see what other people have thought about Ski Butlers? Check out some reviews. We can’t wait to help make your vacation as stress free as possible this winter.
