Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Beginning in late autumn and continuing through the winter and spring, the Sierra Nevada mountain region becomes a winter wonderland. Snow is measured in feet, not inches, and a normal winter will see accumulations of 30 to 40 feet in the higher elevations. Winter can last up to six months in the mountains, which is great news for winter sports enthusiasts. The temperatures stay relatively mild, usually above freezing during the day and only dropping into the 20s at night. During most days, the sun shines and adds the perfect finishing touch to the ideal winter vacation.

One of the highest, largest, deepest, cleanest and coldest lakes in the world, 1000 foot deep Lake Tahoe is situated at a mile high elevation in an alpine bowl of forested granite peaks. The drive around the entire circumference of Lake Tahoe is 72 miles in length and takes about three hours. It is recommended during the summer months only. During the winter, Highway 89, which runs along the west shore and connects South Tahoe and Tahoe City closes when there is too much snow. A delightful alternative to driving around the lake is to view it from a paddle wheeler on a summer cruise.

The early-mid years of the 20th century saw tremendous building and deforestation in the Lake Tahoe area. The building boom was brought under control in the 1960’s, and 85% of the land is now protected from development. The undeveloped land is owned either by the state or federal governments, and has been turned into National Forests and State Parks, further enhancing the appeal of this spectacular place.

The Lake Tahoe region straddles the Nevada/California border. The state line cuts through the lake lengthwise, so that the western shore is in California; the eastern shore in Nevada and some properties situated north and south of the Lake are in both States. One such hotel even has a dotted line running through its rooms to indicate in which State occupants are located.

During normal snow years, many ski resorts are open by Thanksgiving and some even operate through July 4. As a result, summer visitors can ski in the morning and enjoy a pleasant afternoon of river rafting. During any lulls in snowfall, ski resorts make snow. Most resorts have installed sophisticated snowmaking equipment on a large percentage of their terrain.

The North and South Lake Tahoe areas have the greatest concentration of ski resorts in North America, with 15 alpine resorts and 12 cross-country resorts offering a wide range of terrain and level of expertise. For the novice skier or snowboarder, lessons are offered at most of the resorts. Also offered are packages, which include rental equipment, maps, lift tickets or trail passes, along with lessons.

Other popular activities include sleigh rides, dog sled rides, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling in the fall, winter, and spring; and in the summer: golf, hiking, bicycling, fishing, boating, ballooning, and river rafting. Superb casino gaming and entertainment are available year round. The Olympic games and World Cup skiing have both been hosted by Lake Tahoe. It is a world-class destination.

Squaw Valley Resort

Most of the free world considers Squaw Valley the factual name of one of the most famed alpine destinations in the world. Nope. As any geography major will tell you, the official name is Olympic Valley. Squaw Valley is the shortened name of the Lake Tahoe ski resort (Squaw Valley USA).

A World Famous Ski Resort

Squaw Valley USA is in California near Lake Tahoe. It opened for skiers in 1949 with one chair lift. Skiers from all over the world began coming to Squaw Valley after the Olympic Winter Games were held there in 1960. Squaw Valley is also known as Olympic Valley.

This Squaw Valley resort is a popular destination during the winter for skiers. Summer visitors will also have plenty to do in the area. Visitors can find several places to stay.

Over 4,000 acres of terrain at Squaw Valley USA are suitable for skiing. This area is spread out across six mountain peaks. Skiers have 33 lifts available to reach this terrain. The annual snowfall here is over 450 inches. Winter visitors can take snowshoe tours, go snow tubing and ice skate at the resort.

Hiking and biking are two of the things to do during the summer at the resort. Visitors can take a cable car to the High Camp. Summer activities at the High Camp include swimming, tennis, disc golf, paintball and roller skating.

Visiting the Olympic Museum and climbing on the indoor rock climbing wall are two things to do at Squaw Valley USA all year long.

Shoppers will find plenty of merchandise in the shops at the base of Squaw Valley USA and in The Village at Squaw Valley. Outdoor clothing, souvenirs and books are some of the items available.

The Squaw Valley Lodge and the Plump Jack Squaw Valley Inn are in Squaw Valley. The Olympic Village Inn is a mile away from Squaw Valley and offers a complimentary shuttle to the resort.

Squaw Valley can be reached by car, plane, train or bus. Squaw Valley is 42 miles from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The North Lake Tahoe Express offers shuttle service from the airport to Squaw Valley. There is an Amtrak station in Truckee, California. Truckee is about 13 miles from Squaw Valley. Amtrak passengers can take a Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) bus from Truckee to Squaw Valley. Greyhound buses stop at the Amtrak station in Truckee.

Kings Beach

Kings Beach was named after card shark Joe King, who won the town site from George Whittell nearly a century before poker had a cult cable-TV following. Set against a vibrant blend of colors, flavors and textures Kings Beach is kick back. In fact, this stretch of North Lake Tahoe wrote the book on mellow kick back.

Activities At Kings Beach

Kings Beach, California is a small town located on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. The town has been in existence since the 1930s. There are many things to do and see while visiting this small town. It is especially popular with individuals who enjoy spending time participating in various outdoor activities.

Spring and summer months are the most popular time for people to visit this area. The Kings Beach State Recreation Area provides individuals with an ample amount of space to enjoy various activities. The recreation area is open for day use and offer restrooms and picnic areas for visitors.

Many people who visit this area enjoy participating in kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and fishing in the waters of Lake Tahoe. People can also rent boats, jet skis, and sea cycles to take out on the water. A local company also provides the opportunity to enjoy parasailing along the waters of the lake.

Individuals who enjoy hiking can find various trails within the recreation area. There are also several places located near Kings Beach that offer additional hiking opportunities. Kings Canyon National Park is a popular destination for many individuals who enjoy this outdoor activity.

Kings Beach is also home to several shops and stores for individuals who enjoy shopping. Various souvenirs and locally crafted items can be purchased in these shops. People can also find additional items such as beach gear, hiking necessities, and other items within these stores.

There are also several options available accommodations and dining experiences. The town offers a range of accommodations from budget motels to luxurious resort style establishments. Dining experiences can range from fast food restaurants to higher class dining restaurants.

The most popular time to visit Kings Beach is during the warm summer months. During these months the beaches and trailheads are often packed with people enjoying the scenery. Visitors, however, can also experience a variety of things to see and do during the winter months as well.

Special Events in Lake Tahoe

Karaoke at the Lakeside Inn 
The Tavern
Lakeside Inn & Casino
Stateline, NV 89449
Feb 29 – Dec 31
Phone: (800) 624-7980
Wednesday and Friday. 11 PM in The Tavern. Presented by Psycho Attitude Productions.
Located in: Lakeside Inn & Casino

Afroman at Bar 24 Taproom & Grill 
Bar 24 Taproom & Grill
Inside Bill’s Casino
Stateline, NV 89449
Apr 22 – Apr 22
Phone: (775) 588-6611
The world’s highest Rapper is back! Late-Nite Productions Presents Afroman! One night only, with special guests The Hooliganz from Chico, Ca plus Penuckle and DJ Aspect. This is taking place at Bar 24 (inside Bill’s Casino) in Stateline, NV on Wednesday, April 22nd at 9pm. There are tickets available for only $15 at Bar 24, Mad About Music, Tahoe Hemp Co. and are also available online at www.ticketweb.com. This concert is 21+ and tickets are $20 at the door.
Located in: Bar 24 Tap Room & Grill

Party with Arty 
Harrah’s Center Stage
Stateline, NV 89449
Jun 1 – Dec 31
Phone: (775) 588-6611
Arthur Hervey’s keyboard magic at Harrah’s Casino Center Stage Friday and Saturday. It’s the best disco, dance, R&B and soul party in Lake Tahoe! 8:00 PM.
Located in: Harrah’s Lake Tahoe

Carnival Cabaret Starring Gypsy at the Horizon Casino Resort 
Horizon Casino Resort
Stateline, NV 89449
Sep 3 – Sep 30
Phone: (775) 588-6211
Come see the Carnival Cabaret – Starring Gypsy! This is a high energy show featuring impressions, impersonations, comedy and dance, and an all-new cast of five female impersonators provides lots of comedy and musical entertainment while impersonating Cher, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Judy Garland, Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Prince and Dionne Warwick. Call for available showtimes. No show on Tuesdays. Tickets are $26.95 plus tax. Minors are welcome to attend the show, but be advised there is some adult humor. Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-800-683-8266 or at www.ticketmaster.com.
Located in: The Golden Cabaret

Gym Time for Tots 
South Lake Tahoe Parks and Recreation
1180 Rufus Allen Blvd
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Oct 6 – Apr 2
Phone: (530) 542-6056
Gym group for Toddlers and pre-schoolers. On going during the school year, we will be offering gym time for your little ones to get out and let loose. Half of the gym will be sectioned off for your active kid(s) to ride their bikes or borrow our scooters. The other half will have mats down, with balls to play with and the bounce house set up. The middle of the gym will have tables set up for parents to catch up with each other. No supervision will be provided by the Recreations Department Staff. Cost: $2.00 per child.* Time: 10:45 am – 12:15pm Mondays and Thursdays. This program will not run on LTUSD Holidays and Snow Days. December 22, 25,& 29, January l & 19 and February 16 & 19.

The Story of Tahoe – Movie Presentation at Explore Tahoe 
Heavenly Village
4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Nov 19 – Dec 31
Phone: (530) 542-4637
Everyday at 2:00 PM. Free.

Lingerie Party & Body Painting at Opal Ultra Lounge 
Opal Ultra Lounge
Inside MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa
Stateline, NV 89449
Dec 13 – Apr 13
Tollfree: (800) BE-LUCKY (23-58259) Phone: (775) 588-3515
Wednesday nights at Opal: Free Lingerie Party; Free well drinks for ladies from 8-11pm; Lingerie Show at midnight.
Located in: MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa

World Famous DJ Red at Mo’s Place 
3600 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
Inside the Super 8
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Dec 21 – Mar 29
Phone: (530) 542-1095
Late-Nite Productions is proud to welcome South Lake Tahoe’s newest and hottest weekly Party with World Famous DJ Red spinning Hip-Hop Anthems, Old-School Classics and Mashups! Every Party we will also be raffling off a Snowboard courtesy of Out of Bounds Board Shop in Carson City, NV and at various times throughout the night the Hottest Go-Go Dancers in town, “The Snow Bunnies” will be ready to spice up the party! This is taking place at Mo’s Place in South Lake Tahoe, Ca beginning on Sunday, December 21st at 10pm and every Sunday Night thereafter. The Cover is only $10 for the Hottest Party in South Lake Tahoe and your chance to win a brand new snowboard!. If you are an MC we will host a Hip-Hop open Mic at Midndnight so come prepared to show your skillz on the Mic! This party is for the 21 and over and Sponsored in part by Sierra at Tahoe Snow Resort.
Located in: Mo’s Place

Karaoke at Rojo’s 
3091 Harrison Ave.
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Dec 23 – Sep 15
Phone: (530) 541-4960
Sundays & Tuesdays, 10 p.m. to closing

Ladies Night at VEX Nightclub inside Harrah’s Lake Tahoe 
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
Stateline, NV 89449
Dec 26 – Mar 27
Tollfree: (800) 427-7247 Phone: (775) 588-6611
Every Friday is Ladies Night at Vex Nightclub featuring 1/2 off cover charge for the ladies! And local favorite, DJ Rockwell spinning the latest Top 40 Club Hits all night. Gather up the girls and head to Vex on Friday night for the hottest club scene in Lake Tahoe!When the sun sets on the lake is when Harrah’s Lake Tahoe turns up the heat. Dance the night away at VEX nightclub, the hottest late night party spot in town.
Located in: Vex

Live Music in the Aspen Lounge inside The Horizon Casino 
Horizon Casino
Stateline, NV 89449
Dec 26 – Mar 14
Phone: (775) 588-6211
Live Music and dancing on Friday & Saturday in the Aspen Lounge from 9pm – 2am.
Located in: Horizon Casino Resort

Friday Night Snow Jam Party Night at Vex Nightclub 
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
15 Hwy 50
Stateline, NV 89449
Dec 26 – Mar 27
Tollfree: (800) HARRAHS – (427-7247) Phone: (775) 586-6705
No Cover Charge for Locals. Ladies only pay $5 cover. Ski & Snowboard videos, drink specials. Free T-Shirts & Hats, Gear Raffle, Go-Go Dancers and Live Music! Head to Vex Nightclub every Friday night! Call 775-586-6705 to reserve a VIP Booth today.
Located in: Harrah’s Lake Tahoe

Fat Tuesday Party at Bar 24 
Bar 24 Taproom & Grill
Inside Bill’s Casino
Stateline, NV 89449
Dec 30 – Apr 10
Phone: (775) 588-6611
Every Tuesday, 10pm. Inside Bill’s Casino. 2-for-1 well drinks, Snowboard give-away, Live DJs and bar games.
Located in: Bar 24 Tap Room & Grill

Getting Around Lake Tahoe

Airport: The South Lake Tahoe airport has flights to and from the major airports in California. The airport is located just south of the city on Highway 50. Several airlines fly into Reno International Airport. The Tahoe casino express operates a shuttle service between Reno International Airport and Lake Tahoe.

Airport: Tahoe-Truckee is a non-commercial airport for small private planes. It is located southeast of Truckee.

Road Conditions: Telephone 1-800-427-7623 for information on winter driving conditions and road closures.

Bus: South Lake Tahoe is serviced by greyhound on a regular, daily basis from all major cities. The terminal is located inside Harrah’s Hotel-Casino on Lake Tahoe Blvd. For information telephone (702) 588-4645.

Travel in the area: Van shuttles go back and forth between the hotels and the casinos daily at 1/2 hour intervals.