Top Outdoor Activities in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is one of California’s top spots for year-round outdoor adventure. From skiing in winter to kayaking and horseback riding in the warmer months, the area offers plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty.

To help you make the most of the area, we wanted to provide you with some ideas for your next South Lake Tahoe getaway. Use this guide to discover some of the best outdoor activities in South Lake Tahoe and start planning your next mountain escape.

Get Out on the Water

Something about simply being in the presence of water sparks automatic relaxation. Adding to the atmosphere is Lake Tahoe's depth, with a reported visibility reading of 71.7 feet. You can enjoy a swim or explore the lake on a kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski. All the water sports equipment you’ll need is readily available in nearly every town. Don’t forget to take time to stretch out on one of the many golden-sand beaches in summer.  

Try Paddle Board Yoga 

Get three workouts in one with this unique experience that combines paddleboarding, vinyasa yoga, and general core fitness. From June through September, you can enjoy a new perspective on yoga while being surrounded by the beauty of Lake Tahoe. While a board is not required for the class, those who bring a paddleboard will pay only $45 instead of the standard $65. Find out more at the link here. 

Giddy up!: Live a Dream of Bygone Eras

Take a scenic guided ride from Camp Richardson’s Corral, featuring trail rides and pony rides for kids through the breathtaking National Forest. If you're looking for dinner along with your ride, head over to Kirkwood Sierra Outfitters, which offers several riding packages, including a dinner ride from 5 to 7:30 PM, with options like tri-tip steak, teriyaki chicken, and more!

If you love horses, but aren’t so keen on riding one, hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh at Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides in South Tahoe.

Explore Stunning Mountain Bike Trails

Hit a paved path for a leisurely day with the family, or pursue a seriously rough ride on rugged mountain trails. South Tahoe’s terrain accommodates riders of all ages and experience levels. A ride through the area’s lush forests and mountain ridges, alongside rushing streams or around the lake, is an experience not to be missed. Here in Tahoe, bike paths crisscross the area, offering majestic views of alpine lakes, the towering Sierra Nevadas, and miles of pristine wilderness. 

Up for a challenge? Get in on the competition at some of the area’s cycling events, including the famous America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride that circumnavigates the lake!

Climb Up and Ski Down a Mountain

It’s impossible not to link Tahoe with downhill skiing. And if you’re looking for an unforgettable ski holiday, South Lake Tahoe’s definitely got you covered. Three world-class ski resorts await at Heavenly, Kirkwood, and Sierra-at-Tahoe. And with Sierra snowfall averaging 125 inches of perfect powder each year, you can enjoy amazing alpine adventures for months. Plus, Tahoe enjoys around 300 days of sun, keeping temperatures comfortable for all kinds of winter action.

Whether you’re on skis or not, you’ll feel you’ve literally arrived at the top of the world after riding the Heavenly Mountain gondola! Open year-round, this family-friendly adventure ride departs from the Heavenly Village in South Tahoe.

Forge a New Trail: Go cross-country, on Skis or Snowshoes

Fun fact: The Lake Tahoe area boasts the most cross-country ski areas in the country, with more than 800 kilometers of groomed trails! While many of Tahoe’s cross-country ski areas are located on the north end of the lake, you can still find great trails on the South Shore. Kirkwood Cross-Country offers 80 kilometers of machine-groomed trails and three interconnected trail systems in a spectacular setting. Grab a full- or half-day pass for a variety of lessons and rental gear. 

See Lake Tahoe's Fall Colors

Every fall, California’s Sierra Nevada mountains offer an otherworldly experience all around Lake Tahoe as the aspen trees change color. Aspen trees in the area typically go from green to furious shades of gold, orange, and red. While on a trip to Tahoe during the Gold Rush, Mark Twain declared Lake Tahoe to be the “fairest picture the whole world affords” — and never is Tahoe more alive than in fall, when the aspens put on their incredible show. Don’t forget your camera!

Plan Your South Lake Tahoe Getaway

Featured Property: Heavenly Forest Fun - Spacious, Pool Table, Hot Tub

Now that you have an exciting list of outdoor adventures, all you need to do is plan your stay. From single-family homes to waterfront rentals, our on-site staff will ensure you get the most out of your South Lake Tahoe getaway! Peruse our South Lake Tahoe vacation rental inventory and book your time in paradise.