5 Places to visit on your next Tahoe trip

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the world and for good reason. Being the biggest Alpine lake in North America that is surrounded by the Sierra’s, it’s understandable how thousands of people visit each year to explore the wonders of it. And I am lucky enough to live close enough to it that it’s a quick drive for me to get away and breath in some mountain air. I grew up in a small town just an hour from South Lake. I remember spending many weekends growing up with my family bike riding, hiking, kayaking, and just hanging out on the lake. It’s a place that holds dear to my heart and I take any chance I have to spend some time there. So when my friend Megan and I were able to go up for the day to just explore and get away for a bit, I figured why not share our adventure and some of my fave spots to go when I’m there.

It just so happens that the day we went, we were getting our first rain storm of the season. So it gave off all of the moody autumn vibes and we were here for it. There’s just something about a rainy day in the mountains that is unlike anything else.

We started our trip off with a short detour to Echo Lake, which sits right below the Tahoe summit. Megan had never been before so it was fun getting to show a local a new spot. It’s a short winding road to the lake that sits above Tahoe. The Lake was partially hit in the Caldor fire the year before, and while you could see some damage on the way to it, it was surprisingly green. While it’s tucked a little bit back off of hwy 50, it’s trails surrounding it are a pretty popular spot in the summer for hikers. It quiets down in the winter because the road isn’t plowed, but outdoor enthusiasts can still snow-shoe into it or if you have kids, there’s a snow park at the entrance to play at.

After freezing our fingers off (so worth it) at Echo, we hopped back in the car and headed over to Zephyr Cove, a popular beach spot located over on the east shore of Tahoe. For being someone who has been to Tahoe hundreds of times in my life, I surprisingly have never been to this spot. And aside from a couple other people, because it was rainy that day and summer is over, we pretty much got the beach to ourself. The beach itself is really sandy and has gorgeous views of the Sierras. There are volleyball nets set up for games, a bar and grill located on the beach, as well as umbrella and beach towel rentals. There is a $12 parking fee to get into the beach though, so just make sure to come prepared.

Once we decided we got enough sand in our shoes to bring home with us, we ventured our way for some lunch. We landed on Riva Grill on the lake, a cute eatery that serves American cuisine and is known for their cocktails and their unique names. They do offer outdoor seating but unfortunately didn’t have it open the day we were there. And while we were really hoping for it, we were still able to enjoy a good view of the lake from inside. We opted for a beer over one of their cocktails this time and weren’t disappointed. Then we spent the next hour chatting and enjoying the view while devouring our fish and chips (highly recommend). It is a little on the pricier side for a meal, but it’s a good spot for a lunch date. The service was great and the food is worth it in my opinion.

Our next and last stop was to one of my all time favorite places in Tahoe – Fallen Leaf Lake. Another new spot I got to share with Megan. At the entrance, there is a campground that’s pretty popular, but the real treat is a little further back. The road to the lake becomes single lane and is a little tight in some places when you meet passing vehicles, but there’s space to pull over a little and people are usually pretty generous. Trust me, what’s waiting at the end is so worth it! On your way to the lake, you’re met with a vast open meadow that is surrounded by pines and aspens. We were a little early to witness fall colors, but it’s a good spot to see them when they make their appearance. As you keep driving, you’ll pass by the quaintest mountain cabins that will make you want to buy one and spend the rest of your days living the lake life. As you arrive, the general store. by the dock and the lack of crowds, give this lake such a homey small town feel to it.

If you drive a little ways past the lake, you’ll discover that there is not only a fire station, but also the cutest little church there ever was that’s tucked away in some aspens. Keep going and you’ll be met with Glen Alpine Falls, which was a little meek with our lack of rain this year, but catch it in its prime and it’s a sight to see. There’s also a short little hike you can do that will take you to Lily Lake. I have yet to go but it’s on my list the next time I’m here.

We stopped at the lake on the way out to explore a little and were met by a lovely older gentleman who shared with us his story of growing up and working at Fallen Leaf during WWII. It was intriguing hearing all about the history and special that he would share some of his story with two random strangers. The enneagram 6 in me has always loved the deeper conversations with people. Listening to their stories and getting know a little bit about who they are.I wish we could have stayed and listened a bit longer, but it was beginning to pour and we had to head home for the day.

Tahoe is such a special place and these are just a few of the many places you can explore around it. There’s something for everyone here, so you can’t go wrong no matter what you decide to do. Hope you enjoyed this post and it inspires you to get out there and explore(: xx Hay