Uncover Nature’s Beauty at these 6 North Tahoe Spots
Best Natural Places In North Tahoe
For nature lovers, Tahoe is the ultimate vacation destination. Located mere miles from the desert and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, there are few places on the planet more scenic, and every year, people flock to Lake Tahoe’s shores for relaxation and recreation. For those of you who are interested in discovering more of the natural beauty available in Tahoe, we’ve created the perfect guide for you.
Read on to find out more about six of the best natural locations in North Lake Tahoe to visit and enjoy.
Spend a Day Enjoying the Lake at Sand Harbor Beach
When you’re visiting Lake Tahoe during the warmer months, every day has the potential to become a beach day, and there’s no better place to spend a beach day than at Sand Harbor Beach. Located on Tahoe’s northeast side, just a few miles south of Incline Village, Sand Harbor Beach offers unbeatable views of the lake and the surrounding mountains in a serene setting that’s perfect for laying out a towel and cracking open a book on a warm summer day. While you’re there, think about stopping in at the nearby Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, where you’ll find the Sand Harbor Amphitheater, which puts on a variety of plays and concerts throughout the summer season. There’s also plenty of trails to explore in the area if you want to make your nature outing last a bit longer.
Roll in the Grass During Summertime at Tahoe Meadows
Have you ever wanted to visit an alpine meadowland? You can on the Tahoe Meadows Loop, a 1.3 mile hiking trail located just a short 10 minute drive from Incline Village. Spend the day trekking through alpine meadows on this gorgeous trail, which is filled with scenic views as well as wooden walkways to help you cross over the Ophir Creek. This hiking trail is fairly easy and only has about 62 total feet of elevation change, so it should be a walk in the park to most, but it’ll still give you that feeling of being amidst the tall grasses of Tahoe’s mountains.
Take a Walk in Shirley Canyon to Uncover Waterfalls
If your visit happens to take you to Palisades Tahoe Resort and you’re looking for natural areas to explore, Shirley Canyon Trail in Olympic Valley is a fantastic choice. This 4 mile trail (although some argue it might be a bit longer) is not for beginners–it has over 1,000 feet of elevation change throughout the trail and can be very steep in places.
However, the sore calves and tired lungs are worth it as you discover waterfalls as well as when you reach the end, which will bring you to scenic Shirley Lake. Sit, relax, and take in the view at the top, where you’ll be surrounded on all sides by the gorgeous natural scenery that Tahoe offers.
Discover All-Season Fun and Beauty at Spooner Lake
Spooner Lake, located only a few miles south of Incline Village, is an all-season wonderland near North Lake Tahoe. During the summertime, enjoy the fruits of nature with a dip in the lake, or sled down the famed sledding hilling during the winter while surrounded on all sides by Tahoe beauty. There’s plenty of outdoor recreation to be had at this lakeside gathering spot, and you don’t want to miss out on it.
Uncover Tahoe’s Natural Landscapes at Taylor Creek
If you’re a fan of outdoor enjoyment in beautiful natural surroundings, Taylor Creek Conservation Area should be at the top of your list to visit while staying in North Tahoe. While it is a bit of a drive from Incline Village, it’s more than worth the hassle once you’re taking a stroll down the boardwalks, surrounded on all sides by incredible views.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the amazing Taylor Creek Nature Center to learn more about the flora and fauna that populate this incredible conservation area. Kids will also fall in love with the rock wall in the nature center, where they can try out their scrambling skills in a safe environment.
Get a Scenic View at Memorial Point Overlook
Not sure you want to take a long walk through nature but still want to enjoy the view? Head over to Memorial Point Overlook, which only has a short trail that will allow you to bask in the mountain and lake vistas that Tahoe is so famous for. It’s easy to find the parking lot that will lead you to the trail–it’s located between Sand Harbor and Incline Village on Highway 28. Experience Tahoe as the birds do, from high up above, and bask in the beauty of your natural surroundings.
Explore More of Lake Tahoe’s Outdoor Beauty
The beauty of Lake Tahoe is something you never forget once you’ve laid eyes on it. The majestic azure of the alpine lake carving a bowl into the mountains is something that can be appreciated from just about any angle, and these spots will help you to enjoy the nature available to you in North Tahoe.
Curious to find out more outdoor activities in the area? Check out our blog on Tahoe’s ski resorts or discover the best hot springs near North Tahoe.