5 Activities Off the Beaten Path in Lake Tahoe
Not Just Skiing
Everyone knows that Lake Tahoe is a world-class skiing and boarding destination, but what if you’re looking for something a little bit different to do on your next vacation? We’ve compiled a list of our favorite activities that you won’t find in many travel guides to give you a taste of offbeat Lake Tahoe fun for your next adventure to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
#1: Scuba Dive into History at Emerald Bay Underwater State Park
While many people come to Tahoe for its ski runs and snowy activities, visiting during the warmer months has its benefits. Not only can you enjoy swimming at the public access beaches dotted around the lake, but there’s something more interesting to do as well: scuba dive.
At Emerald Bay Underwater State Park, established in 1994, scuba enthusiasts can explore an underwater trail filled to the brimming with artifacts and vessels that make up Lake Tahoe’s storied past. Visitors will see Tahoe from a much different perspective than most tourists as they explore the remains of two historic barges as well as the aftermath of a 1955 landslide, which sent a chunk of forest down into the depths of the lake. Interpretive panels explain the history of each of the dive sites, giving visitors a look back into the past that has disappeared beneath the emerald waters.
#2: Explore Pioneer History at Donner Memorial State Park
Donner Memorial State Park is not just a scenic place to visit during your next trip to Tahoe, it is also an important monument to the bravery of the Donner Party. This group attempted to cross a treacherous mountain pass despite being hampered by one of the heaviest snowfalls ever recorded, and were forced to resort to some intense measures to stay alive.
Visitors to Donner Memorial State Park will learn all about the history of this place, as well as about the individuals who set off on their ill-fated quest through Donner Pass. A memorial stands in their honor on a 22-foot platform, showing how high the snows were during their traverse. For those with an interest in history and the area’s storied past, there’s no better place to visit.
#3: Try Out Your Off-Roading Skills on Rubicon Trail
Off-roading is an adventure on its own, but while you’re visiting Tahoe, take the opportunity to bring your 4X4 vehicle on one of the most scenic trails in the nation. Rubicon Trail was originally used by Native Americans and early settlers moving west in the early 20th century, but in the 50s this gorgeous route fell into disrepair. Now, the trail is used by off-road enthusiasts and affords insane views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Driving the whole of the Rubicon Trail will take a few days, crossing both public and private land and reaching elevations over 7,000 feet. But if you’re not up for a long trek in your off-roading vehicle, this trail can easily be done in sections to enjoy the incredible sights and scenery.
#4: Get Aerial Tahoe Views From a Hot Air Balloon
There’s nothing more beautiful than seeing Lake Tahoe from the air. The emerald waters glisten in the sunshine while the snowy mountains reveal their beauty in the background as you rise above the lake. And the most unique way to see Tahoe from the air is one you might not expect: a hot air balloon.
Lake Tahoe Balloons plans the whole trip for you, starting at the very break of day to give you unparalleled views of Emerald Bay, Fallen Leaf Lake, and Cascade Lake, along with panoramic sights of the Desolation Wilderness. When the balloon ride is over, you’ll land on a watercraft on the shores of Tahoe and enjoy snacks and champagne to celebrate your successful ride.
#5: Enjoy the Lake From the Tahoe Tiki Boat
While most tourists enjoy tours of Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay from the famous MS Dixie II, there’s another interesting way to celebrate your next trip to Tahoe: from a tiki boat. Tahoe Tiki Boats has a fleet of three boats for guests to try out. Two of their boats are equipped with water slides so you can set up your own personal water park for you and twelve of your favorite people on the gorgeous waters of Tahoe.
Enjoy Tahoe in Your Own Way
Next time you’re on the emerald shores of Lake Tahoe, whether in the summer or the wintertime, why not try out some new activities to make your trip even more memorable? Chances are, if you take advantage of all the fun that both the slopes and the sands will afford you, you will remember your next trip to Tahoe forever.