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Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains is Lake Tahoe, a breathtakingly beautiful destination that entices travelers year-round but it’s especially stunning in the Autumn months when the Lake Tahoe fall colors come alive. Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in America and extends so wide it spans into Nevada.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature hike lover, or just in search of some tranquility, Lake Tahoe is the perfect autumn escape for this time of year. I am going to focus more specifically on South Lake Tahoe since that area is known best for its spectacular fall display but there are a ton of great areas all around Lake Tahoe.
When to visit Lake Tahoe Fall Colors
Mid and late October is the best time to see the peak fall colors around the lake. Pleasantly mild temperatures and fewer crowds make this time of year a great time to visit. For my visit, I stayed at Camp Richardson in South Lake Tahoe and it was a great place to start. You can drive the different highways to see more of the area but the south edge of Lake Tahoe offers some of the best scenic views. Book your stay at Camp Richardson here!
Why visit the Lake Tahoe Fall Colors
Lake Tahoe is a special kind of paradise all year long, but the fall colors are enchanting.
Fall Foliage: The backdrop of the clear, deep blue lake makes this natural spectacle even more stunning contrasted with the explosion of color as the trees change to vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues.
Great Weather: Fall is ideal for outdoor activities without being scorched by summer heat or frozen by winter cold. Temperatures range between the mid-60s and 70s Fahrenheit with little chance of rain.
Active Wildlife: Autumn is also a great time for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species that are active during this season.
Less Crowded: Summer and winter are peak times for activities so visiting in the fall means more tranquil hikes and less crowded overlook points. This is also great for photographers who don’t want to have to fight the crowds to get a great snapshot.
Wine Tasting: The fall harvest season is perfect for exploring Lake Tahoe’s up-and-coming wine scene. Visit local wineries and savor the flavors of the region’s wines.
Plan on hiking in Lake Tahoe?
Don’t forget to download your maps for safety in case you lose cell reception. I personally use the AllTrails app. Enjoy a discount on AllTrails+ with my exclusive link and use my promo code: eagertraveler30
Lake Tahoe Activities for Fall
Emerald Bay State Park
Start your trip with a scenic drive to Emerald Bay, one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic spots. The viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay framed by colorful fall foliage.
Tahoe Rim Trail
Take a leisurely drive along the Tahoe Rim Trail, which circles the lake, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. While this trail encircles the entire lake at 170 miles long, you can choose to just do the portion of the trail near where you are visiting.
Fallen Leaf Lake
Hike around Fallen Leaf Lake for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, all while surrounded by vibrant fall colors.
Take a relaxing boat tour
Several companies offer sightseeing tours with knowledgeable guides on Lake Tahoe.
Try Lake Tahoe Boat Rides which has been in business and serving the South Lake Tahoe community for over 15 years.
Visit Bonsai Rock
While further north and technically in Nevada, this is a great area to paddleboard and kayak and see the famous Bonsai Rock. Bonsai Rock is a large boulder with four small trees growing out of a crevice at the top and is a Lake Tahoe landmark. Note: The only parking is on the narrow shoulder of the highway. There is no signage for the rock and service can be hit or miss so be sure to download any driving maps before you start traveling.
Cathedral Lake
A hidden gem near Lake Tahoe that offers a stunning experience for hikers and photographers. Its clear waters, stunning surroundings, and accessibility make it a popular destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe fall colors.
Hidden Beach
A picturesque destination located on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada, near Incline Village. This charming beach is known for its stunning views, hidden coves, and unique rock formations.
Kings Beach
This quaint little beach town is located on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. The views are exceptional with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This is a great place to stop if you are traveling with a pet because the area is very pet-friendly.
Drive Ebbetts Pass
Ebbetts Pass on Highway 4 is a national scenic byway and home to thousands of aspen trees which put on a colorful display every fall. Some of the best places to see color are along the East Carson River and Kinney Creek. You can see a lot of the trees from your car, but pulling over for a picnic or nature walk is highly recommended.
Note: Highway 4 is very steep and windy so there is a lot less traffic than on Highway 88.
Stop by Taylor Creek Visitor Center
This is a great place to see fall colors and to watch the salmon spawning. Each fall the Lake Tahoe Kokanee Salmon runs up Taylor Creek and can be seen at the Center’s Stream Profile Chamber. The chamber is located 1/4 mile down the Rainbow Trail and allows visitors to study a diverted section of Taylor Creek through a panel of aquarium windows. After check-in at the Center, a hike along the child- and disabled-friendly walking paths is a must!
Leaf peeping
If you’re interested in leaf peeping, then South Lake Tahoe should be on your list of destinations to visit in the fall. The best places to enjoy beautiful fall foliage are the Hope Valley and the scenic routes that stretch across the south side of the valley, like Highway 50 and Highway 89. Luther Pass and Pickett’s Junction will let you see the aspen groves with their magnificent color.
Ready to see the sights of the season? Your unforgettable weekend awaits!
Weekend Travel Itinerary in Lake Tahoe
Day 1
Once you arrive, start your trip with lunch at The Beacon Bar and Grille. You can take in the views of Lake Tahoe right on the water’s edge. Don’t forget to try their famous Rum Runner cocktail, you’re on vacation after all!
Explore Fallen Leaf Lake which is just a short drive away. It is a serene and less crowded lake near Lake Tahoe. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline or rent a kayak to explore the crystal-clear waters.
Camp Richardson Beach is a great place to witness a spectacular Lake Tahoe sunset. The fall colors reflecting off the lake create a mesmerizing sight at sunset.
Enjoy dinner at The Fresh Ketch in South Lake Tahoe which has a diverse menu focused on surf and turf.
Day 2
Start your day with breakfast at The Driftwood Cafe, which is a cozy breakfast spot in South Lake Tahoe.
If you like history, head to the Tallac Historic Site where you can learn about the cultural and natural history of the area. There are historic buildings and beautiful gardens that are likely still in bloom.
If you’d rather experience more of the scenery, head down HWY 50 toward Echo Lake or HWY 89 toward Hope Valley for some of the most scenic roads you can experience in the area.
Echo Lake is a good place to stop off for a hike or trail walk and Hope Valley is known for being where you can see some of the best fall colors with the Sierra Mountains towering in the background. You can choose your own adventure for what sounds like more fun for your own trip!
When you’re ready for lunch, circle back toward South Lake Tahoe and try Frescana Mexican Bistro for a great Mexican menu that is inclusive of all dietary restrictions and preferences.
Rent a boat or book a boat with one of the local businesses on one of the nearby lakes to enjoy the views of the mountains and foliage by boat tour.
For dinner, Riva Grill On The Lake is a local favorite! The menu is diverse from seafood and pasta to short ribs and burgers.
Lake Tahoe is known for its clear night skies. After dinner, find a quiet spot away from city lights and gaze at the stars. If you have binoculars or a telescope, this is an ideal place to use them.
Now, you are all set to plan your trip to Lake Tahoe for the fall colors!
Looking for more California travel inspiration this fall?
Check out this guide and weekend itinerary for Mammoth Lakes
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