The Most Beautiful Drive

The 72-mile journey around Lake Tahoe offers plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view, take a hike, or have a picnic. Much of the shoreline is public with parks, beaches, swimming areas, and other attractions. Without stops, the drive takes about three hours, but we recommend that you head out early and make a day of it. Picnic lunches can be arranged in advance through Cafe Blue, or there are great breakfast and lunch spots in Tahoe City and Homewood. Make sure to bring sunscreen and good hiking shoes if you plan to venture off on any of the paths (highly recommended as you will be rewarded with spectacular views), and dress in layers as the temperatures will typically vary at least 30 degrees from early morning to mid-day. Once you are ready to head out, from the base of the mountain, head South down 267 and turn right at the Lake onto North Lake Boulevard (Highway 28).

Tahoe City

(10 miles from the 267 turn off at Kings Beach)

From Kings Beach, you will pass a number of small mountain communities before you come to Tahoe City. Tahoe City features old alpine buildings, shops and restaurants perched on the shore of Lake Tahoe at the headwaters the Truckee River. Enjoy dining, homegrown coffee shops, shopping, galleries, and a leisurely stroll through town on the Lake-view boardwalk. Tahoe City’s century-old heritage, historic sites and museums provide much history to explore as well. As you leave Tahoe City, make sure to make the left on Hwy 89 at the light toward the West Shore going over Fanny Bridge (if you pass the Shell gas station on the right shortly after leaving Tahoe City you are headed in the wrong direction).

West Shore between Tahoe City and Emerald Bay

Sugar Pine Point State Park contains one of the finest remaining natural areas on Lake Tahoe. While you are there, take a tour the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, a summer home built in 1903 that provides an interesting view into the lifestyles of the wealthy on Lake Tahoe. If you got an early start, grab breakfast as you head down toward the park at a local’s favorite, Fire Sign Café, or enjoy a leisurely lunch on the outdoor patio at West Shore Café in Homewood.

Emerald Bay & Vickingsholm Mansion

(18 miles from Tahoe City)

Park at the Vikingsholm Trailhead and peer out over the rocks to see one of the most photographed (and beautiful) sites in the United States, then stroll down the mile-long road to the Vikingsholm Mansion, where you can take a tour of the Scandinavian-style castle built in the 1920s. During the winter season, the roads between Tahoe City and Emerald Bay are often closed due to avalanche danger; be sure to check with concierge as to road availability if there is snow or the threat of snow.

Historic Camp Richardson & Tallac Historic Site

(7 miles past Emerald Bay)

Nestled in one of the last old-growth forests on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe, Camp Richardson offers a glimpse into "Old Tahoe." The marina at Camp Richardson is open daily and features Jet Ski rentals, power boat and ski boat rentals and a selection of kayaks, paddleboards, and paddleboats. Camp Richardson Corral offers horseback rides through Lake Tahoe national forest, hay wagon rides, pony rides, pack trips and boarding facilities. Next door is the 74-acre Tallac Historic Site that a century ago was considered the “Grandest Resort in the World”. Today, the remains of the resort and the restored estates allow you to recapture this bygone and significant era in Tahoe's history.

South Lake Tahoe

(8 miles past Camp Richardson)

After passing through Camp Richardson, make sure to make the left a little less than 3 miles East onto Hwy 50 to continue around the lake. Head up to Heavenly where you can hop aboard an eight-passenger glass cabin and be whisked 2.4 miles up the side of a mountain for breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Hidden Beach

(23 miles past Heavenly)

After leaving South Lake Tahoe, you’ll make a left back onto Hwy 28 (about 13 miles from South Lake). Much of the trek between South Lake Tahoe and Hidden Beach is National Forest Land, with curvy, forested roads punctuated by intermittent views of the lake. Ten miles past the 28/50 split, there is an unmarked parking lot on the left. You’ll see a placard welcoming you to Nevada’s Lake Tahoe and a small sign reading “Trail to Beach.” It’s a challenging path but takes you to a pretty beach that feels like a remote oasis on the lake.

Sand Harbor

(2 miles past Hidden Beach)

This beach, considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the shores of Lake Tahoe, is not to be missed. Stop and explore the granite boulders and the trails beneath the Jeffrey Pines.

Incline Village

(Make a left onto Lakeshore Blvd 2.5 miles past Sand Harbor)

On your way through Incline Village, take the turn off 28 toward the lake and admire the big mountain homes lining the shores. If you are ready for dinner, stop at Bite or Jack Rabbit Moon on Tahoe Boulevard (Hwy 28) for cocktails and tapas or continue up the stretch of Tahoe Blvd and enjoy dinner at Soule Domaine, a log cabin tucked behind the Tahoe Biltmore at the Stateline, perfect for an intimate dinner for two. Kids in tow? Head into Kings Beach for dinner at Caliente or Jason’s Beachside Grill.

Kings Beach

(4 miles past Incline Village)

Before heading back up the mountain, stop off at the Char-Pit for a dipped frosty cone and head out to the beach to watch the sunset on the Sierras. Once you are ready to head back up to the resort, continue through Kings Beach and make the right at 267.

Northstar California Mountain Biking

Experience the thrill of downhill mountain biking in the summer right in our backyard on Northstar Mountain. With diverse terrain and trails fit for all abilities, bikers of all sorts will find their thrill on the mountain.

Tahoe Adventure Company

Lake Tahoe offers unsurpassed mountain bike tour options for riders of all skill levels. A variety of single track trails and dirt roads start in the mountains and provide an opportunity for a perfect all, or mostly downhill mountain bike ride. You can also choose a full day mountain bike tour that includes up and down hill biking, a leisurely tour along the Truckee River bike path, or on the famous Flume Trail. Whatever you choose, the forested trails and views of the lake will provide the perfect backdrop for your ride. Mountain Bike Tours offered through Tahoe Adventure Company include bike, helmet, knowledgeable local guides, trail snacks, bottled water and lunch.

Truckee River Bike Ride

A leisurely tour along the beautiful Truckee River. Between Squaw Valley and Sugar Pine Point State Park, we cruise along the historic route of Lake Tahoe's only outlet. We will cover the unique history of this important river and have lunch along its shores. A variety of distances are available, and this trip is great for the whole family.

Distance and Time: 8-12 miles 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Single Track Mountain Biking

Several loop options exist on this mountain bike ride over rolling terrain. This trip is for new riders who are looking for a challenge as well as those with some experience who are seeking a fast paced ride in a beautiful setting. Beginning in beautiful forested surroundings, we enjoy a variety of riding conditions on both single-track trails and dirt roads. The climbs are short and moderately graded and the downhills are fast and smooth. Several loop options are available to meet the needs of every level of rider.

Distance and Time: 8-15 miles, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sawmill Lake

Ability Level: Moderate
Distance and Time: 2.3 miles, 1 hour

The Sawmill Lake hiking trail is family-friendly 2.3-mile round trip hike. The trailhead is located at the top of the Big Springs Gondola just down the hill from The Ritz-Carlton. The trail meanders through the forest towards Sawmill Lake. Please see the hotel concierge or True North for a complimentary pass to access this trail.

Lift Access Hiking on Northstar California

Scenic chair lifts on Northstar California lead to trailheads where miles of tracks and loops await hikers of varying abilities. Pack a lunch and meander through pristine forests to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra. Leashed dogs are welcome. Please note a lift ticket is required for all lift access hiking and is available in True North.

Sunset Trail

Ability Level: Less Difficult
Distance and Time: .60 miles, 10 minutes

From the top of the Tahoe Zephyr chair lift follow the signs to the Sunset Trail head. The Sunset trail traverses the West ridge of Mt. Pluto offering spectacular views of the Pacific Crest and the back side of Northstar. Along the way you will come across informational vista points that describe The Northstar Habitat Management Plan, Late Seral Forests, Riparian Wildlife Areas and native bird species. This trail is a great introduction to Northstar.

Lookout

Ability Level: More Difficult
Distance and Time: 2.4 miles, 45 minutes

This trail offers great panoramic views of the Pacific Crest and Martis Valley. The top of Lookout Mountain offers some of the most spectacular views at Northstar. Don’t forget to bring your picnic lunch. From the top of The Tahoe Zephyr Chair Lift follow the trail signs North toward Lookout Mountain.

Watson Lake Loop

Ability Level: Most Difficult
Distance and Time: 5.8 to 6.2 miles

The hike to Watson Lake from the top of the Tahoe Zephyr Chair lift offers 360 degree views of the Tahoe Truckee area, Start at the top of the Tahoe Zephyr Chair Lift.

Matt Heron Fly Fishing

Reservations: (775) 686-8606

Located approximately 25 minutes from The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, the Fly Fishing Discovery Center features two private, stocked ponds, and classes, clinics and guide trips for all ability levels.

Tahoe Fly Fishing Outfitters

Reservations: (530) 541-8208

Outfitting Fly Anglers since 1994. Offering fully outfitted guide trips, lessons and classes for all ability levels. Fishing the Truckee/Tahoe area and beyond specializing in a hands on approach to catching trout with a fly rod as well as offering a fully stocked Retail Fly Shop in the South Shore of Lake Tahoe.

Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding

This tour is designed for the beginner who wants to discover kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Tour includes all your gear, introductory lesson, professional guide, natural and human history discussions.

North Shore Kayak Tour

After an introductory lesson, you will head out on the water for a paddle. Your guide will point out ecology, geology and other natural and human history along the way. Paddle along the coast of King's Beach, among the boulders of Crystal Bay and along scenic coastline while getting a unique glimpse of some of Tahoe's most beautiful waterfront homes. Tour includes all gear, professional guide, natural and human history discussions, and a deli spread lunch.

Sand Harbor Kayak Tour

Explore the only undeveloped side of Lake Tahoe. Your adventure will begin at Sand Harbor on Tahoe's East Shore and first cover a comprehensive lesson on the beach. Once on the water, you will paddle along the coastline, soaking up the incredible sierra views. Your guide will explain the geology, ecology, and natural and human history of the lake throughout your trip. To re-energize, you will land on a hidden beach for a deli spread lunch and cold beverages. This trip provides great opportunities to paddle, swim, or just float. You'll even get to paddle around the fascinating historic Thunderbird Lodge.

Thunderbird Lodge Kayak Tour

Explore the Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site and arrive by Kayak. You will start your adventure at the beautiful Sand Harbor State Beach on Lake Tahoe's magnificent East Shore. After getting outfitted and covering a comprehensive paddling lesson, you will begin your journey with an easy 1.5 mile paddle along pristine coastline to the beach at Thunderbird Lodge. After a rest and snacks, professional tour guides take visitors on an hour walk throughout the Whittell estate, including the Lighthouse Room, the Old Lodge, the maids' quarters and original kitchen, as well as a trip through the 600' underground tunnel leading to the infamous Card House and Boat House. In the Boat House you may find the fabulous yacht, Thunderbird, built for George Whittell in 1939. The yacht is a 55' long, John Hacker design with mahogany hull and dual aircraft engines and is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece built in a bygone era. The tour then follows the Dragon's Tail path, past the waterfall and fountain to the Cook and Butler's House. After your tour, a deli spread lunch will be served on the beach before our short paddle back to Sand Harbor.

Winter Activities

• The Tubing Hill, located mid-mountain at Northstar California, offers an exhilarating ride for all ages. Tubes and riders are transported to a tow lift to the top of the hill and slide down.
• Sledding at North Tahoe Regional Park
• Scenic Helicopter Tours of the Lake Tahoe Basin with Sierra Air.
• Snowshoe Full Moon Hikes with Tahoe Adventure Company
• Tahoe Environmental Center
• Tahoe Maritime Museum; Gatekeeper’s Museum; and Kid Zone Museum
• Bowling Incline Village, NV
• First-run movies at the Village at Northstar movie theater

Truckee

Located just ten minutes from our Lake Tahoe family resort, Truckee is a historically rich mountain town surrounded by rugged Sierra Nevada scenery. Its authentic charm and small town character will captivate you. Truckee’s quaint historic downtown is full of unique dining options and specialty boutiques.

One of Truckee’s greatest allures is the abundance of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. In the summer, you can enjoy fishing, rock climbing, water-skiing, sailing, windsurfing and river rafting. Hikers have miles of trails to choose from including the Pacific-Crest Trail which will take you to mountain meadows filled with wildflowers and breathtaking scenery. A winter wonderland, Truckee is within minutes of eight major ski resorts. There is also dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling and tubing – unlimited possibilities to create an unforgettable Lake Tahoe family vacation.

Tahoe City

Situated on the Western shore of North Lake just 25 minutes from the resort, Tahoe City offers superb shopping and dining options. An array of year-round activities - including snow sports in winter and hiking, camping, fishing and water sports in summer - make this small town a wonderful place to spend time with the family, enjoy world-class recreation or just relax and enjoy the view. Enjoy four-star dining, homegrown coffee shops, elegant boutique shopping, art galleries, a walk along the lakeside trail system or Tahoe City's century-old heritage, historic sites and museums.

The Lake Tahoe Basin was geologically formed about two million years ago. Over time, snowmelt from the surrounding mountain peaks filled the basin creating Lake Tahoe, one of the deepest freshwater lakes in the United States with a maximum depth of 1,645 feet and 72-miles of shoreline.

The area around Lake Tahoe was originally inhabited by the Washoe tribe of Native Americans. Lake Tahoe was the center and heart of Washoe Indian territory, including the upper valleys of the Walker, Carson, and Truckee Rivers. The English name for Lake Tahoe derives from the Washo dá’aw, meaning lake.