Lake Tahoe Tourism

The Lake Tahoe area straddles the Nevada/California border. The state line cuts through the lake lengthwise, so that the western shore is in California; the eastern shore in Nevada and some properties situated north and south of the Lake are in both States. One such hotel even has a dotted line running through its rooms to indicate in which State occupants are located.

Travel in the area:
Van shuttles go back and forth between the hotels and the casinos daily at 1/2 hour intervals

Snow is often measured in feet, not inches in the Tahoe area, and a normal winter will see accumulations of 30 to 40 feet in the higher elevations. Winter can last up to six months in the mountains so there's plenty of time for outdoor winter activity. Temperatures stay relatively mild, usually above freezing during the day and dipping into the 20s or just below at night. When it's not snowing, there is plenty of sunshine.
If the weather is questionable, call (530) 583-6985 to check cablecar operation schedules and weather conditions. In every season, sunscreen is a must because of the greater intensity of the sun's rays at higher elevations. A jacket is also recommended, because the temperature is much cooler here than in the valley.

South Shore:
South Lake Tahoe is much more populated and developed, with a concentration of casinos, miles of motels, shops, restaurants, etc. There is always lots to do in and around this area. It is also well known for its clubs, restaurants and night life. If you're going in the summer, definitely plan to jet-ski, parasail, and take a hot air balloon ride right off the lake!

North Lake Tahoe (North Shore) is less developed, and is where most of the large, expensive vacation homes are located. It has more of a wilderness feel than the South Shore and more opportunities for outdoor recreation, including things like mountain biking in addition to traditional outdoor sports.

North Shore:
North Lake Tahoe is a seasonally inhabited area that stretches along 40 miles of shoreline. It contains three residential communities as well as the Tahoe and Toiyabe National Forests and a number of state parks. The resort communities are known as the West shore; the North shore, and the Truckee River Canyon area.

Elevation:
Tahoe City: 6302 feet
Truckee: 5820 feet

California side trip:
San Francisco is an easy 3.5 hour drive from Lake Tahoe. Take Hwy 50 west to Sacramento and then I-80 to San Francisco. This would be the best route from South Lake Tahoe. (You can also take I-80 all the way which would be the best from North Lake Tahoe. )

The drive entirely around Lake Tahoe takes 3 hours, and is recommended during the summer months only. During the winter, Highway 89, which runs along the west shore and connects South Tahoe and Tahoe City closes when there is too much snow. There is good public transportation to all points of interest. Summer and winter are the optimal times to visit the Lake Tahoe area. Remember that there is the possibility of snow in the higher elevations throughout the year. Always check the weather forecast before driving into the mountains in order to be prepared.

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