The Art of Smart Timing
Except during a raging snowstorm, there is really no bad time to visit the lake. A trip to Tahoe is a hole-in-one, whether you visit during winter, summer, spring or even in the fall (when you can't swim in the lake or ski). We visited in late October and just happened to see the trees change colors. The aspens were decked in a blindingly brilliant sunny yellow, and a few went renegade in crimson.
The fall -- after Labor Day into November -- is a quiet, inexpensive time to visit Lake Tahoe. Called "shoulder" season, mid-fall often means the closing of gondolas, certain shops and certain kids' activities. Call and ask if your heart is set on a particular agenda. But, overall, visiting in the fall is considered a "local's secret." The foliage is wild with color, the high-end resorts are charging rock-bottom prices on their usually pricey rooms, and crowds are non-existent.
Peak summer season is in July and August, when the lake warms up admirably. Even in June it's still a little too chilly to plunge right in. (But, some folks go for it anyway.)
In the winter, December through New Year's is peak ski season, along with spring break and all major holidays. You can't beat the good prices available mid-week throughout the winter.
Getting Around
Attempting a family vacation in Lake Tahoe without a car would be fairly painful, although it's probably doable with good planning. In Tahoe, you certainly need wheels if you want to see the sights, ski the slopes or hit the sand.
Many of the hotels and resorts provide shuttles from the Reno-Tahoe airport. Inquire when you make reservations.
Airport
Reno-Tahoe International Airport
2001 E. Plumb Lane, Reno, NV 89502, (775) 328-6400
Lake Tahoe is located a little less than an hour (an easy drive) from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, which loves to boast about its 130 daily flights.
Airport Shuttles
The North Lake Tahoe Express
This clean shuttle provides daily airport shuttle service to and from North Lake Tahoe and the Reno-Tahoe Airport. Reservations are required.
The South Lake Tahoe Express
This is another clean, reliable shuttle that provides service to and from the Reno-Tahoe Airport to South Lake Tahoe. Reservations are required.
Lake Tahoe Taxis
You'll find an enormous list of taxis on MagicYellow.com
For Mom & Dad
Great North Shore Babysitting
390 Fairway Drive, Tahoe City, CA 96145 (530) 583-1534
Casinos
South Lake Tahoe has six 24-hour casinos. One -- Bill's Lake Tahoe Casino -- is the only smoke-free casino. But there's also Harrah's Lake Tahoe, Harveys Resort & Casino Lake Tahoe, Horizon Casino Resort Lake Tahoe and Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa.
Golfing Lake Tahoe
690 Wilson Way, Incline Village, NV 89451
Enjoy challenging, beautiful lake views at this Incline golf course. Call (866) 925-GOLF for tee times.
Off the Radar
Need doggy daycare or overnight services for your furry kids? Check out PetsLoveTahoe.com for lots of great services.
Visitor's Bureau
North Lake Tahoe Visitors' Bureau
Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
Lake Tahoe Planning & Tips
Lake Tahoe Planning & Tips
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