It may officially be the end of winter, but ski season runs until mid-April in Lake Tahoe. And, if slopes aren’t your thing, there’s tons of kayaking and hiking adventures to be had as the weather warms up.
No matter what time of year you visit, stunning views and great food are always in season. Here’s everything you need to know for when you go.
STAY:
The gondola right out front is only one of the perks of the luxe Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe — a heated pool, two spas and fully equipped in-room kitchens are a few of the others. Bonus: Room rates during the off season can be found for $135 per night. For a more home-y vibe, try the Fireside Lodge Bed and Breakfast where nightly log cabin-style accommodations start at $119. And for a small slice of history, try the Truckee Hotel, conveniently located in bustling downtown Truckee, Calif. The nearby train can be a bit noisy but it’s chock full of character and rooms can be found for $79 per night.
EAT:
For the best breakfast around, check out Squeeze In. The eatery is so famous for itsgourmet omelettes that Bobby Flay challenged restaurant staff in a Throwdown episode. Options span from the decadent “Holy Crab!” (a full quarter pound of king crab sauteed in butter folded alongside green onions, avocado and monterey jack cheese) to the wacky “Cathy Who?” (a combo of ham, bacon, bananas, honey, mushrooms and cream cheese). For innovative sushi and tapas, try the Drunken Monkey — it’s a long-standing local favorite. For awesome food and views: Long Eagle Grille offers haute cuisine, bespoke cocktails and unobstructed lakeside seating while the Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge is a stellar spot for catching the famous Alpenglow (that horizontal pink streak seen in mountains at sunrise and sundown).
DO:
In Winter, some serious slope time (skiing or boarding) at Northstar California Resort is a must. Make sure to stay for the Village at Northstar’s free daily 3 p.m. s’mores ritual (that’s right, we said free) and some after-sundown skating — the rink stays open until 9 p.m. Those looking for a more rowdy aprés-ski scene should top off their slope day – and beer mug – at Unbuckle at Tamarack, rated the number one aprés-ski party in North America by Forbes. Set 9,150 feet high (at the top of the Heavenly Mountain Resort gondola), you’ll find DJs, dancers and an energy level to match the altitude.
And for history buffs? Snowshoeing through the abandoned Trans Sierra railway tunnels over Donner Pass. As temperatures heat up, beachside activities abound. The lake itself is filled with kayakers and paddle boarders — both easy to rent at Kayak Tahoe. And regardless of your experience level, a hike is an absolute must. For the most spectacular views, locals argue between the Tahoe Rim Trail and the Rubicon Trail; mountain bikers should check out the Flume Trail.
(Main image: Taryn Adler)
