While California is known for its sunny weather and countless beaches, winter is also a great time to visit. The Lake Tahoe area gets record levels of snow and has plenty of activities to do during this time of year, so you’ll want to plan a Lake Tahoe winter vacation if you’re looking for somewhere to go. You don’t even have to be a skier – there are plenty of activities you can do besides being on the mountain.
Years ago, I saw a cheap flight from Seattle to Reno and immediately booked it. I wanted to take advantage of all the Lake Tahoe winter activities and see how this season varies from being there in the summer. From snowboarding to enjoying a warm drink at a cozy lodge, I didn’t want to leave my trip to Tahoe in the winter!
This guide includes tips for planning your trip in the winter in Tahoe, such as how to get there, where to stay, and most importantly, what to do in winter in Tahoe.
This post was updated and is accurate as of December 2022.
Lake Tahoe Winter Travel Tips
Here are a few tips to help you plan your Lake Tahoe winter vacation.
How to Get to Lake Tahoe in the Winter
The one downside of Lake Tahoe is there isn’t an airport directly in the area. However, there are many different transportation options for when you arrive in the winter in Lake Tahoe. While you can drive directly to the area if you’re driving from San Francisco, the roads won’t be as dry and clear as they are during summer in Tahoe.
That said, you’ll likely fly into the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Once you get there, several options are available to make the 1.5-hour journey to Tahoe.
- Rent a car – I personally prefer to have a car when I travel so I can explore whenever I want to. You can reserve a vehicle in advance at the airport from companies like Alamo or Enterprise, so you’re ready to go. Getting an all-wheel-drive vehicle is essential, as the roads get icy during Lake Tahoe in the winter.
- Book a shuttle – Many hotels offer free shuttles from Reno to Lake Tahoe, so check with yours to see if they do. If not, you can book a shuttle in advance for about $25 each way.
- Hire a car service or limo – If you’re traveling with a large group, it can often be more cost-effective to order a larger car such as a limo. Just call them in advance to have them waiting for your party when you arrive.
Once you get to Lake Tahoe, many places are accessible by walking if you stay in a populated area such as South Lake Tahoe. The restaurants and shops are bunched together on the same main street, making them easy to get to without a car. If you need to get somewhere you can’t walk to, here are a few options.
- Take the bus – If you don’t mind your ride taking a bit longer, the bus is an inexpensive way to get around Lake Tahoe.
- Ride the ski shuttle – Ski shuttles run daily in the winter in Lake Tahoe to get to the different ski areas. Many hotels offer free ones, so check with yours before booking one that you pay for.
- Take a taxi – While it’s the more expensive option, there’s nothing wrong with paying more to get directly where you want to go without waiting for other passengers.
Weather During Winter in Tahoe
While it does snow in Lake Tahoe, temperatures don’t always get below freezing. In fact, the average temperature in Lake Tahoe in December is 44° F, so you’ll still be warm walking around town with the proper clothing. The best time to visit Lake Tahoe for snow is anytime in the winter and often late spring.
Just keep in mind that the higher you go up in the mountains for skiing and other Lake Tahoe winter activities, the colder it’ll get. The area can also get pretty windy due to the wind coming down from the mountains and blowing off the lake, so layers are a good idea.
A Lake Tahoe winter can also get massive snow dumps at times, so keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared to wait. I once planned a fun day of snowboarding, only for the sky to dump so much snow that I was snowed in my vacation rental for the day. The roads get plowed regularly, but you’ll want to factor in that everyone will also try to get out when you are.
Make sure you pack enough warm winter clothes and create a ski trip packing list before you go to bring everything you need.
Winter Outfit Suggestions
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe in Winter
There are plenty of places to stay around the lake during a Lake Tahoe winter. South Lake Tahoe tends to be a popular place due to how many shops and restaurants there are. I’ve stayed in both hotels and rental homes during my Lake Tahoe winter vacation.
Here are a few hotels I recommend during your trip in the winter to Lake Tahoe.
- Montbleu Resort is an excellent place to stay on a budget that has a spa, fitness center, heated pool, and hot tub. (rates start at $60 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com)
- The Lodge at Lake Tahoe is in central South Lake Tahoe and has a heated spa and pool year-round. (rates start at $115 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com)
- Grand Residence by Marriott is great for families or groups who want to stay together, is minutes from Heavenly gondola, and has a full kitchen and dining area. (rates start at $114 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com)
- This completely remodeled single-story Tahoe cabin sleeps 8, with a dining room for eight too. It also has a desk workspace with fast Wi-Fi. (rates start at $200 per night)
- This remodeled unit boasts a king-size bed, free internet, and a fitness room on site. (rates start at $157 per night)
- This beautiful waterfront condo features three beds, sleeps 6, and has all new furnishings. (rates start at $140 per night)
Best Things to Do in Winter in Tahoe
Here are some Lake Tahoe winter activities you’ll want to check out during your trip.
1. Go Skiing or Snowboarding
One of the most popular activities to do in the winter in Lake Tahoe is skiing and snowboarding. I love the Lake Tahoe area because they have multiple places to go, so you’re not stuck on one crowded mountain. There are about a dozen different ski areas around the lake to visit, but the most popular ones are here.
Palisades Tahoe
Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley) hosted the Olympics in the 1960s and has been a popular place to ski in America ever since. If you’re an expert skier, this is the place for you. The mountain has plenty of black runs for those who are advanced and many steep runs. There are plenty of blue and green runs as well, so you can still ski or snowboard if you’re a beginner in Lake Tahoe in winter.
One downside is the wind can be particularly strong here during a Lake Tahoe winter, so bundle up before you come. I recommend going to the mountain early to beat some of the crowds and get parking, as it’s one of the more popular things to do in Lake Tahoe in winter.
Heavenly Mountain
The gondolas up to Heavenly are conveniently located in the middle of town in South Lake Tahoe. That means you can walk depending on where your lodging is. There’s also a parking lot and street parking if you’re driving there. Heavenly has 97 lifts, and the craziest part is you can choose to ski in either California or Nevada. I’ve never been to a mountain that was split among the states!
Heavenly is the 5th largest ski resort in the country, which means there’s plenty of room to spread out for your Tahoe winter activities. However, you should be aware that it can get crowded since it’s centrally located in town. If you’re a fan of tree skiing, this is the place to do it. While they don’t get as much snow as other Lake Tahoe ski areas, the quality tends to be better and is one of the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe in winter.
Northstar
Northstar is on the north side of Lake Tahoe and is known for being the least windy Lake Tahoe ski area. While it’s a bit of a drive if you’re staying in South Lake Tahoe, it’s worth it if you hate skiing in the wind. However, it is the lowest elevation of the ski areas, meaning you might encounter slushy snow or ice on warmer days.
This ski area is a great place to visit in the winter in Lake Tahoe due to the base village. You can choose from plenty of restaurants and bars, which are great for groups or families. There’s even an ice skating rink for those who don’t feel like snowboarding or skiing.
2. Walk Over the Nevada-California Stateline
The Nevada-California state line happens to split up the town, so one of the more unique things to do in Tahoe in winter is cross the states. I thought it was pretty neat that you could get lunch in California and then cross the street to gamble in Nevada.
There are a handful of casinos such as the Hard Rock and Harrah’s on the Nevada side. Ski in California during the day, head back to your hotel to get freshened up, and then head out for a night on the town in Nevada during winter in Tahoe.
3. Try Out Other Snow Sports
Head to Hope Valley to try out some other winter sports that aren’t snowboarding or skiing during Tahoe in winter. This is about half an hour south of town and the perfect area for snow sports with its wide-open space.
I went there to snowshoe for the first time during a Tahoe winter, which was a blast (and harder than you think when it’s just dumped two feet of snow!). I was vastly outnumbered by snowmobilers, though, which I’d love to try next time. Both of these activities are popular things to do in Lake Tahoe in winter.
A small bed and breakfast/general store/restaurant are a few minutes away if you get hungry or need last-minute supplies. Heads up – you do need a permit to be here, which I recommend getting in town (it’s only $5).
While some of the best Lake Tahoe hikes are done in the summer, there are still a few you can do at lower elevations in the winter. You’ll love all the Tahoe winter activities if you’re an active person.
4. Head Down to the Lake
The lake itself draws plenty of visitors in the summer, but its deep blue color looks beautiful against the white, snowy backdrop in Lake Tahoe in winter.
Head down to one of the public shores and walk around where people usually sunbathe in the summer. All the piers were covered with snow when I was there, and there were even a few visible snowmen. This is one of the best Lake Tahoe kid-friendly activities in winter.
5. Go Up to Lookout Platform
Even if you’re not interested in skiing, take the gondola up to the first stop on Heavenly in Tahoe in winter. The views are stunning, particularly on a clear, sunny day. You can see all of Lake Tahoe and even across the lake.
I recommend taking the gondola up to the top to grab lunch and a drink in the lodge. This is also a good idea if you want to meet your group for lunch that’s been on the mountain all day during a Tahoe winter.
Bring snow boots when you go up, as you do have to walk a good 100 feet from the gondola to the lodge. The price varies throughout the season, but it’s roughly $60 for a roundtrip ride on the gondola.
6. Have a Drink by the Fireplace
Not everyone loves the snow or being outside during winter in Lake Tahoe, which is perfectly fine. If you’re looking for a mug of hot chocolate or coffee, head to Blue Angel Cafe to sit by the fireplace. You’ll love cozying up to the fire while having a drink.
If a pint of beer is more your jam, my favorite place to go in Lake Tahoe in winter is The Brewery. They have plenty of tasty beer to choose from in addition to a full menu with options such as pizza and seafood. This is a great place to come during your Lake Tahoe winter vacation, whether you’re taking a day off from skiing or just finished a tough day on the slopes.
7. Head to the Spa
Nothing feels better during the cold winter in Lake Tahoe than having a spa day to warm you up. There are multiple spas to visit in the area, such as the Balance Holistic Health Spa. This is located in Northstar and offers body wraps, facials, massages, and yoga, and is one of the most relaxing Lake Tahoe winter activities. I recommend going here at the end of your trip to have a fantastic last day on your Lake Tahoe vacation.
You can also treat yourself by going to the Ritz-Carlton’s spa (one of the best places to stay in Lake Tahoe in winter). They have over a dozen different treatment rooms, so you can book spots for your whole group or just for you and your spouse. It’s easy to spend an entire day here, as they have a eucalyptus steam room, dry-heat lodge, and fitness center.
Another one of the most scenic things to do in Tahoe in winter is to relax in their heated pool that views the mountains. Spending a few tough days on the mountains followed by a massage at a spa is one of the most relaxing things to do in Lake Tahoe in the winter, in my opinion.
8. Go Ice Skating
When you’re looking for what to do in Lake Tahoe in winter, head to Palisades Tahoe to ice skate at one of the most scenic rinks you’ve ever been on before. You’ll have to take a tram to get to it, as it’s 8,200 feet above sea level. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Sierra Mountains on a clear day during winter in Lake Tahoe.
While you’re there, you’ll also have access to the Olympic Museum. The museum explains the history of the Olympics in Tahoe in the 1960s and has memorabilia from the Winter Games. It’s one of the most family-friendly winter activities in Lake Tahoe.
9. Head to the Theater
One of the best ways to stay warm and entertained is to head to The Loft Theatre for dinner and a show. You can make a reservation for dinner followed by purchasing tickets to a show in the same building. Magic shows are the specialty here, which is a fun way to spend an evening after exploring the town during the day.
After, you can enjoy a drink in their bar and lounge. This is a great idea when looking for what to do in Lake Tahoe in January after all the holiday events are over.
Want to extend your California trip? Head over to go on a Big Sur day trip!
I hope you’re excited to plan your Lake Tahoe winter vacation after reading this guide! There are some amazing things to do in Lake Tahoe in winter, so enjoy your time there.
I would wear these boots when I go skiing
Unfortunately this giveaway won’t be done in time for my Yosemite trip! I guess I’ll just have to plan another fun adventure in the snow to give them good use 🙂
Very cute, and very cosy. Perfect for wading through the fluffy white stuff.
With all of the snow we have had in the past years, I would be using these boots almost every day.
I would wear these boots when it snows or is icy out. I don’t have any special winter plans.
I would wear them when the snow gets bad here this month and next.
I plan to visit my Mom up North and would use them there as they most likely will have snow!
We have an annual Brundage Mountain trip with the family for skiing. These would be perfect for my wife when she isn’t in her ski boots.
We have lots of snow this year, I would wear these daily.
I would use these boots to go sledding with my kids!
I always wanted to travel to Lake Tahoe! It looks beautiful! And the skiing:)! What wonderful photos! The I live on the East Coast and we have places to ski and snowboard but the beauty of Lake Tahoe… Wow! And I Love your Northside Boots! Not only cute but warm and comfy! Thanks for the chance!
I would where these boots all winter long! Out and about and when I go skiing!
I could really use these boots in these snowy days. These looks so cute I would wear them all winter long. Thanks for the wonderful chance to win these so cute boots. I am crossing my fingers. Thanks!
Wow it sounds like you had an amazing time! Beautiful pictures! I just love how fashionable those boots are. I am from Wisconsin and a good pair of boots that are fashionable are hard to come by. I would love to try them out at Nordic mountain on vacation! We will be skiing and I will be trying snowboarding for the first time! These would absolutely be perfect. Thanks for this opportunity and I look forward to reading more blogs of yours!
these boots are adorable and so cute…would have absolutely no problem wearing these in the snow with the kiddies…..Awesome giveaway…..thank you
These would come in handy when I take my dog for a walk
I don’t have any plans but I’d give to my twin daughters to share and they would love them
Hope I win, we ski every year and it’s always nice to have another pair of winter boots!
My winter plans are to have fun outside with the kids! They want to go sliding and ice skating this year since they are really ready for the Cold this year! I would love to win so I too can keep up with these kids too!
I love to go hiking and these are exactly what I need for a good day in the woods!
I would wear there everyday while helping my dad on his mail route, we wade snow sometimes up to our knees just trying to get into boxes.
I would love to visit Seattle! My winter plans are to hunker down at home and stay warm! I’d use the boots to hike our property and fill my many bird feeders. Thanks for an awesome chance to win!
I would love to travel anywheres . I been to fla. but always wanted to go to nevada and ski
I would use these boots for igloo building with my kiddo!
I’m in Ohio and we get plenty of snow. I would wear these here for sure!! I love the look of them!
My winter plans are to spend time outdoors with the kids, I can’t due to lack of suitable footwear We have a lot of snow and these boots would keep me warm, and allow me to be outside more in this winter weather.
I’d wear them to go sledding, shoveling or just walking around out in the snow.
I love playing in the snow, it brings out the kid in me! These boots look cute and I would love to try them in many snowy adventures. I can tell by the stitching the boots are made of good quality. I recently went on a trip and the boots I had just bought ripped off at the soles after taking a few steps, I ended up with cold wet feet and miserable. I wasn’t expecting that to happen and there wasn’t a store close by to purchase boots, it ruined my vacation. It’s extremely important to have the right gear and in good quality.
♡♡♡ SMOW, I deal with ice ever day at work. My husband thinks I am crazy. I enjoy snow snowing, building huge igloo’s, which you can use. Adore snow ball fights with the children. Never grow up, after major brain surgery. .live life!! ☆☆☆☆
I would wear them every where… So awesome. I’m going to Georgia this winter and definitely packing them. Any time the temp drops below 60 I will be wearing thrm . so cute
I would go everywhere wearing these cute boots.
I will wear them to the slopes this Winter.
I would use these boots daily! I’m a school bus driver in the NW suburbs of Chicago. My feet were freezing this past week. I have boots, but not like these! Not to be a sob story, but… hubby got me a pair of Sorel Jane of Arctic’s for Christmas, and I made him take them back so I could use the $200 for my washing machine that broke… those suckers are expensive, but I do love the new one! Anyways… I’d use them daily for work & walking my dogs. Thank you!
oh on my daily walks i would use these wonderful boots. love walking in the snow.
I would wear them out on a date since they look so fancy, and to play in the snow with my kids.
fingers tightly crossed for the won. I love these boots.
It snows quite a bit here in my part of Texas during the winter! And when we go to NM in March, there’s always snow there!! Love it.
I’ve been invited to go to a friend’s cottage for skiing, I’ve been putting it off b/c I don’t have decent gear, including boots like this!!
I am hoping to do some winter hiking this year but we have had unseasonably warm weather so we are still waiting for our snow
I am waiting for it to snow in Gatlinburg, TN. My wife could wear them there. It has been unusually warm this year though.
These would be perfect for my upcoming trip to Quebec!
I am headed to NC to do some visiting. I would use these there when i went out.. it gets so cold there
These boots are ADORABLE! It’s snowing & blowing a gale here in Kitchener-Waterloo, so these bad boys would be great all day, every day!
I have no winter plans, but would use these boots here where I live.