Lake Tahoe North Attractions

The popular lake vacation destination of Lake Tahoe lies in both California and Nevada. It is a huge freshwater lake of unparalleled natural beauty, with the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains standing sentinel over the clear, crisp waters of the largest alpine lake in North America. Tourists travel from all over the USA to vacation on Lake Tahoe’s shores, for skiing in the winter, and water sports in the summer. The northern shores of Lake Tahoe lie in Nevada and there are lots of activities and attractions to make your vacation one you and your family will never forget.

Whether you crave adrenaline pumping action sports, or relaxing chill out time, the north shore resorts have plenty to offer visitors from water sports including fishing and boating, to hiking and exploration of the many fine trails that criss-cross the areas around the lake. You might catch a glimpse of the ruined cabins from struggling homesteaders while on your travels. You will certainly catch a glimpse of some amazing views.

For those families who require some history in order to fully immerse themselves in a place, there is plenty of culture to satisfy. The secluded Thunderbird Lodge estate on the eastern Nevada shore is a fine example of Tudor revival architecture and is open for pre-booked tours during the summer months. Watson Cabin is a 1909 log cabin listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the oldest house built on site in Tahoe City. It is a popular living history exhibit showcasing pioneer life on Lake Tahoe. For those interested in Native American Culture, The Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Museum has a vast collection of over 800 baskets, pottery, clothing, dolls and artifacts from over 85 tribes nationwide

There are lots of trails around the perimeter of the lake and the Lam Watah Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile scenic walk through the meadows and woods to Nevada Beach.

Fans of the old television series “Ponderosa” can visit the Ponderosa Ranch and Stables for guided mountain trail rides, spectacular lake views, and breakfast rides for older children.

Of course, one major advantage the north shore resorts on Lake Tahoe has is the many casinos. Visitors can spend their vacation playing the gaming tables and slot machines to their heart’s content. Since a great vacation does not necessarily need to be about sports or outdoor pursuits, the casinos offer a relaxing break from everyday life.

Lake Tahoe South Attractions

Lake Tahoe, situated on the border between California and Nevada, attracts visitors to its shores all year round. There is a wealth of entertainment to keep tourists amused amidst the stunning natural scenery of this alpine lake.

The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Visitor Center, located between Pope and Kiva beaches, is open throughout the summer months to provide guides, brochures, and general advice to tourists.

The paddle steamers, MS Dixie II and Tahoe Queen, cruise out of the south shore and take tourists on a scenic trip to beautiful Emerald Bay. While you sail along the lake, you can look through the glass bottom of the boats, deep into the clear water below.

The Emerald State Park is a photographers dream. It affords some amazing views of the lake, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, plus Fannette Island: Tahoe’s only island. Desolation Wilderness is exactly as it sounds—a truly primeval landscape of glacial lakes, forests, and granite peaks.

Vikingsholm Castle resides on the shore of Emerald Bay and is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in North America. The house was completed in 1929 and is an astonishing blend of art and architecture. Complete with turrets, towers, and intricate carvings, the castle is one of the most popular attractions on Lake Tahoe.

The Ehrmin Mansion museum is one of many fascinating examples of opulent Tahoe architecture used in the construction of holiday homes at the turn of the century. The Tahoe Maritime Museum offers visitors many interactive displays, plus several historical watercraft, including the Shanghai, an 18th-Century excursion, and Redskin, a rare 1912 Canadian-built displacement boat. The Gatekeepers Cabin Museum gives an insight into Pioneer Life at the time of the settlers.

The Tallac Historic Site was built on the former site of the 100 year old Tallac Resort. In it’s heyday, the resort had two hotels, a casino, plus numerous other buildings. These days, you can take the Lucky Legacy tour for a historical view of the 19th-Century world of gaming. It is also the home of the Annual Valhalla Festival of Arts and Music. The Tallac (Baldwin) Museum is located within the site and has exhibits related to the Washoe Indian tribe.

The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center provides an insight into the science behind Lake Tahoe and how modern research is helping to preserve the lake for future generations. There are regular guided tours and lively demonstrations for families with children aged 8 and above.