Exploring Lake Tahoe: Eco-Friendly Adventures

Situated in the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe sparkles like a blue moon.

This stunning 190-square-mile lake, framed by peaks reaching 10,000 feet, is best admired from its southern shore, where vibrant wildflowers blanket meadows, sandy beaches shine like gold, and mountains reflect into the deep blue waters.

The lake’s mesmerizing blue isn’t by chance. Lake Tahoe’s captivating hue comes from pristine air and water – treasures to cherish. Conservation efforts, including South Lake Tahoe’s 2020 Climate Action Plan and Visit Lake Tahoe’s ‘Rules to Lake By’, help maintain the lake’s clarity and brilliance for generations to come.

Evidence of the effectiveness of these initiatives is already apparent. In 2023, a research team confirmed that Lake Tahoe’s clarity has reached its best level in more than four decades—clear enough to see up to 75 feet beneath the surface. These conservation efforts not only protect the area but also enable visitors to engage in the very activities that attracted them to Lake Tahoe. Here’s how you can experience everything the lake offers while supporting its sustainability efforts.

A realm of sustainable outdoor adventure

The South Shore of Lake Tahoe is not just a lake; it encompasses a diverse landscape of lakes, streams, meadows, mountains, and forests, offering ample opportunities for exploration. Traverse breathtaking trails suitable for all skill levels; paved, wheelchair-friendly paths include the Pope-Baldwin Bike Path, which meanders past historic sites along the lakeshore, and the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path leading to El Dorado Beach. At the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, accessible features include the Rainbow Trail, the Stream Profile Chamber, and the amphitheater, with audio tours available for visually impaired visitors.

For those who prefer backpacking, hiking, and horseback riding, Desolation Wilderness boasts nearly 64,000 pristine acres to explore. The ten-mile ascent to Mount Tallac, the park’s highest point at 9,740 feet, rewards adventurers with sweeping views of Lake Tahoe and the scenery below. Stay on marked trails and remember to pack out what you bring in. Carry plenty of water in a reusable bottle to stay hydrated and help keep this enchanting landscape clean and beautiful on every visit.

While Lake Tahoe’s trails are alluring year-round, spring, fall, and midweek offer the most tranquil experiences, as visitor numbers are lower. Late spring and autumn are also perfect for mountain biking in Van Sickle Bi-State Park or navigating the thrilling descents and twists of the Flume Trail.

In winter, the snow creates a picture-perfect contrast against the lake's blue, turning the trail system into a playground for snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Nearby, Heavenly Mountain Resort, Sierra at Tahoe, Kirkwood, and other ski areas offer thousands of skiable acres with stunning lake views. Hansen’s Resort and Tubing Hill is a popular spot for families seeking fun with tubing and sledding.

While standing on the shore allows you to admire Lake Tahoe’s legendary clarity, gliding across the water in a SUP or kayak reveals an entirely different experience. Whether you explore a tranquil cove or paddle towards Fannette Island in Emerald Bay, watersports offer rewarding adventures both day and night. Cleary Kayak provides guided tours and rentals, including magical bioluminescence experiences under the stars. If you bring your own kayak, please protect the ecosystem by checking the bottom for plants or invasive species that might disrupt the lake’s fragile balance.

Indulge in locally sourced cuisine  

After days of outdoor activities, your appetite will be ready for a feast. Dining in Lake Tahoe is an exciting experience in itself. The South Shore boasts numerous restaurants that support local agriculture and serve the freshest ingredients while minimizing their environmental impact.

Sprouts Natural Cafe emphasizes healthy, organic choices. With a menu featuring smoothies, salads, burritos, and towering sandwiches loaded with veggies or tuna, it’s an ideal spot for a quick lunch before a day of hiking or mountain biking. If you prefer to lighten your load, stop by after your adventure—it's open until 8 pm.

Freshies Ohana Restaurant and Bar provides an extensive menu, including gluten-free, vegan, and seafood selections. Local favorites like ahi poke, chilled gazpacho, and homemade soups make this a must-visit. Ohana means family, reflecting the restaurant's welcoming and laid-back vibe.

For waterfront dining, Riva Grill offers both delicious food and stunning views. Favorites include Lobster deviled eggs, zucchini sticks, and Miso Teriyaki Salmon Salad, but the restaurant is particularly famous for its Wet Woody—a vibrant, boozy frozen drink that's perfect for lake days.

If you're craving a cold beer after skiing or kayaking, visit Cold Water Brewery and Grill. Enjoy a flight to sample this craft brewery’s unique sours, IPAs, ales, and seltzers, along with a full cocktail menu. Pair your drinks with tasty dishes like grilled steak, Miso ramen, and artichoke chips.

Eco-friendly transportation choices in Lake Tahoe

Getting around South Lake Tahoe without a car is simple. South Shore Bikes offers rentals of both electric and human-powered bikes for exploring the area’s trails, bike paths, and sidewalks. Additionally, Lime scooters are also an option.

Lake Link Microtransit Shuttle provides personalized, on-demand, point-to-point transit service, similar to a community Uber or Lyft for free. Operating from 9 am to 7 pm on weekdays and until 11 pm on Friday and Saturday nights during peak tourist season, the service features ADA-accessible vans and racks for skis and bikes, allowing easy travel around Lake Tahoe year-round. Simply download the free app to start exploring one of the world’s most stunning destinations.

From our partners: Visit the official tourism website of Visit Lake Tahoe to begin planning your trip today and discover sustainable accommodations.