You’ll hear often from Tahoe locals this age-old saying, “You come for the winter, stay for the summer, and never leave.” There’s nothing quite like endless powder days at Tahoe and fresh turns on a bluebird day at Squaw Valley or Alpine Meadows with gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe, but it's summer in Tahoe that truly shines.
Tahoe summers have temperate days of high 70s to low 80s and sunny skies — no haze on the horizon! There are 22 miles of clear blue water for boating, wakeboarding, parasailing and kayaking, surrounded by alpine peaks perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. It’s a dreamy season for the whole family, whether you’re jetting away for a romantic weekend at a cozy cabin, or spending a week-long vacation with kiddos and relatives for an annual reunion.
When it comes to your summer plans and things to do in Tahoe, we’ve rounded up our top three:
Get on Lake Tahoe
Experiencing Tahoe from the water is a must-do – whether that’s a sunset boat cruise, an early morning session of kayaking or stand up paddleboarding over glassy Tahoe, or waterskiing/wakeboarding with friends in the heat of the day – don’t leave the area without getting wet! Jet from the west to east shore – jump or sunbathe from big boulders at Speedboat Beach, or cruise up to Chambers Landing for a famous (and famously strong) Chambers Punch at the end of your day. Find Lake Tahoe boat rentals, or visit Tahoe Adventure Company for various water excursions.
Squaw Valley Village, High Camp, and Golf
Experience world-renowned Squaw Valley, which packs in the fun with a bustling village of shops, restaurants and family friendly activities. Get in a round of 18-holes with your friends in the morning and take the Aerial Tram 2,000 feet up to High Camp (at 8,200 elevation) in the afternoon for stunning 360 degree views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Grab drinks at the outdoor bar and take a dip in the pool, or roller skate with the kiddos before heading out for a summer hike to Shirley Lake. The wildflowers at High Camp are especially beautiful in June/early July.
Tahoe Rim Trail Day Hiking
You’ve seen Tahoe from the water, and now it’s time to climb a bit higher to check out the beautiful region from another perspective. Don’t miss out on popular easy-to-moderate day hikes along the Tahoe Rim Trail, where you can enjoy full open views of Lake Tahoe, Castle Peak, Sierra Buttes, Mt. Tallac, and more! The Tahoe Rim Association provides all the details and resources online to select hikes that suit your needs, whether you’re in search of waterfalls, wildflowers, or vistas and peaks.
Still searching for the perfect house for your summer stay? Be sure to book early at Tahoe Vacation Rentals since summer sells out fast!