There’s plenty to see and do, not only in Lake Tahoe, but also in the surrounding area. It has almost everything you could want in a relaxing vacation or a fun adventure. Hence, we’ve put together a list of the best 8 day trips near Lake Tahoe that could help you plan your itinerary.
Our top picks are Virginia City, Carson City, Yosemite National Park, and Reno City, all of which are well-known around the world for good reason.
Are you planning your trip to Lake Tahoe?
If you’re traveling to Lake Tahoe, ensure you have lodging and tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe (and Nearby):
- Deerfield Lodge at Heavenly (South Lake Tahoe 9.6/10 Exceptional)
- Marriott Grand Residence Club (South Lake Tahoe / 1 to 3 bedrooms & penthouse)
- Cedar Glen Lodge (9.4/10 Exceptional / Tahoe Vista; North Lake Tahoe)
Best Tours and Experiences in Lake Tahoe:
- Self-Guided E-Bike Tour of the World Famous East Shore Trail (5⭐️ reviews)
- Sunset Hike and Photography Tour in South Lake Tahoe (moderately challenging 2-hour trek with breathtaking sunset views)
- Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe (in completely transparent kayaks!)
Lake Tahoe has long been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. It’s home to many breathtaking views, crystal clear waters, and beautiful beaches. But there are also many mountains, forests, and towns that surround the lake. There are many state parks, landmarks, and hideaways nearby as well. All of which are accessible from the lake.
That’s why, whether you enjoy skiing or hiking, boating or fishing, there’s something for everyone here. If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then head out to these 8 best day trips near Lake Tahoe!
» You might like these 14 Top Weekend Getaways from San Francisco.
Looking for more info? See our full destination guide as well as posts on Lake Tahoe in Winter, Lake Tahoe in Summer, the best times to visit Lake Tahoe, and the 15 best hikes in the area.
Our Recommended Lake Tahoe Hotel
Day Trips Near Lake Tahoe
1. Virginia City
Why not begin your journey with a rich historical experience?
Virginia City is a popular historic destination best known for the discovery of silver ore during the 1850s. As a result, it earned its nickname “Silver State.” It’s a Nevada town full of cultural sights and events commemorating its deep ancient ties.
In addition, the city is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It’s because of the many wonderfully preserved Victorian homes, mansions, churches, cemeteries, saloons, mines, and various antique shops.
This makes the place ideal for a whole day of museum-hopping and ghost-hunting. Fortunately, it’s only about 40 minutes to an hour away from Tahoe by car. This gives you more time to explore!
So, don’t miss the chance to stop by the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, Comstock Gold Mill, Silver Queen Hotel, Silver Terrace Cemetery, and Washoe Club & Haunted Museum.
2. Carson City
We have another piece of good news! Carson City is just a mere 28 miles (a 45 minute drive) away from Lake Tahoe. It’s the capital of Nevada, so after Virginia, Carson is the best place to go next!
A walking tour of the Kit Carson trail will take you to at least 50 landmarks. It will truly be like walking through history as you explore each attraction. These include century-old Victorian-style homes, mansions, and churches.
However, what makes Carson City so appealing are the modern structures that carefully complement the majestic classical settings of the place. Aside from museums, exhibitions, libraries, theaters, and art galleries, the city also has fine restaurants and shopping centers.
Plus, if you want to spice up your day, there are challenging golf courses and a variety of table games and slot machines to choose from!
3. Yosemite National Park
It could be intimidating for anyone who isn’t fond of traveling long distances to hear that Yosemite National Park is four to seven hours away from Lake Tahoe. However, we’re here to tell you that it’s well worth the effort.
With such enchanting scenery along the way, you might not even notice how far you’ve traveled! Some of the most popular stops that are snap worthy are Yosemite Valley and Heavenly Mountain Resort. There are other sights, like the Mariposa Grove, Tioga Pass, and Bodie State Historic Park.
Nevertheless, our most recommended is Glacier Point. It’s an overlook with a magnificent view of the ancient giant sequoia trees, stunning falls, and vast meadows. Just make sure you travel during the best months, which is from May to September, when the park is open but not overcrowded.
Other must-see destinations include Half Dome, Tunnel View, Tuolumne Meadows, Merced River, and El Capitan. Yosemite National Park provides a variety of lodging and camping so you can stay and enjoy the scenery awhile.
4. Calaveras Grove
The Calaveras Grove, also known as the Calaveras Big Trees State Park, is a two-hour drive from Lake Tahoe. True to their name, they’re one of the world’s largest trees, reaching heights of more than 300 feet and widths of up to 20 feet.
The park covers approximately ten square miles. It includes two groves of spectacular giant sequoia trees, two expansive campgrounds, a few picnic areas, and a number of paved trails. The entire area would take several days to explore, but there are 1.5 miles of the self-guided loop you can hike in a single afternoon.
Otherwise, if you’re not a fan of hiking, boating, camping, kayaking, and fishing, Calaveras County is just nearby. There’s an impressive ironstone vineyard and mysterious Mercer and Moaning Caverns that can be quite fun to tour.
In addition, there are several hidden gems in the county, such as museums, lakes, and community parks that aren’t well-known but promise exciting adventures!
5. El Dorado
El Dorado, or “the golden,” got its name after the discovery of gold in 1848. It resulted in the California Gold Rush, which catapulted the county into what it is today. At the same time, El Dorado is also notorious for its wine production.
After driving southwest for more than an hour from Lake Tahoe, you can visit the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. This is where the first sawmill was discovered, and a replica of it can be found on the riverside. Here, they allow visitors to try a bit of gold panning.
Of course, you shouldn’t waste the opportunity to stop by Apple Hill afterward. It’s one of the sources of the apples and berries used to make spirits, beers, and wines. You can sample all these amazing crafts in Miraflores Winery, Sentivo Vineyards, Narrow Gate Vineyards, and Solid Ground Brewing.
However, if you’d like some fun outdoor trips, you can also go on a scenic hike in Eldorado National Forest. Perhaps you’re even interested in camping. Here are some options: Camp Lotus, Coloma Resort, and Camp Nauvoo.
6. Reno City
Reno City, also known as “The Biggest Little City,” is an hour’s drive from Lake Tahoe and is famous for its casinos. Nonetheless, there’s more to this city than its neon lights and gambling. Among the best things to do in Reno are kayaking, rafting, swimming, and tubing.
That’s why it would certainly be a shame if you don’t experience Truckee River White Water Park while you’re there. The Riverwalk District is ideal for strolling. To pass the time, there are numerous local shops, restaurants, boutiques, entertainment venues, pubs, and self-guided tours available here.
Of course, you should take a photo at the Reno Arch, the city’s flashiest and most recognizable landmark. Plus, if you like the amazing wonders of the galaxy and stars, you’ll be mesmerized by the displays of meteors, black holes, and constellations in the Fleischmann Planetarium.
Finally, you can spend time in the Animal Ark, where you can learn more about exotic animals, like cheetahs and tigers. You may get a close look at bobcats, black bears, and owls! They’re all injured animals being cared for by a non-profit organization, because they cannot be released into the wild.
7. Tahoe City
Tahoe City is located on the shore of Lake Tahoe and is only a short 50 minute drive from South Lake Tahoe. It’s not a stretch to say the crystalline waters of the Commons Beach, Meeks Bay, and Lake Forest Beach are among the best in the world. The views around the hike through Eagle Falls Trail, Alpine Meadows, and Inspiration Point Vista are unparalleled.
You may think that Tahoe looks gorgeous in the summer and spring, but there’s also an indescribable magic to the place whenever winter arrives. There are dozens of activities waiting to be explored in either season.
8. Sierra Hot Springs
After all those satisfying and exhausting excursions, you might be looking for something more relaxing, like a serene hot springs.
Sierra Hot Springs has an inviting and quiet atmosphere that will calm both your body and mind. You can enjoy soothing hot soaks and relaxing cold plunges while you’re there.
The pools are fantastic and the surrounding views add to the charm of the heartwarming place.
The vibe is pretty chill, making it a perfect final day trip to consider from Lake Tahoe.
» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey, waterfalls in Southern California, and national parks.
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.
Your list of day trip ideas near Lake Tahoe is a valuable resource for travelers seeking to explore the surrounding areas. It provides a diverse range of options, ensuring there’s something for every type of adventurer. Thanks for sharing these exciting opportunities to enhance the Lake Tahoe experience! ️