Summer at Tahoe: 12 Activities You Can Book Right Now

Lake Tahoe draws 3.8 million visitors annually, and summer is when the lake truly comes alive. With water temperatures that finally become swimmable, 300+ miles of trails, and a craft beverage scene that rivals cities ten times its size, summer Tahoe is world-class. The average visitor spends $273 per day — and these 12 activities are why.

1. Clear Kayak Tour with Clearly Tahoe

This has become Tahoe's most Instagram-famous experience for a reason. Transparent kayaks glide over water so clear you can see 70+ feet to the bottom. Tours run from Sand Harbor on the Nevada side and multiple locations on the California side. Book 2-3 weeks in advance for summer dates — they sell out fast. Expect to pay $100-$150/person for a 2-hour guided tour.

2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Sand Harbor

Sand Harbor State Park is arguably the most beautiful beach on the lake. Rent a SUP board ($30-$50/hour from nearby outfitters) and paddle the boulder-lined cove. Morning is best — the water is glass-calm before afternoon winds pick up. Arrive before 9 AM on weekends or the parking lot will be full.

3. Tahoe Rim Trail Hiking

The 170-mile Tahoe Rim Trail circles the entire lake along the ridgeline. You don't need to do all of it. Popular day-hike segments include:

• Spooner Summit to Marlette Lake: 10 miles round trip, moderate, stunning alpine lake views
• Mt. Rose Summit Trail: 12 miles round trip, challenging, 360-degree panorama of the lake and Reno
• Tahoe Meadows to Ophir Creek: 6 miles, easy to moderate, wildflower-filled in July

Trails are free to access. Bring more water than you think you need — the 7,000-8,000 foot elevation dehydrates you fast.

4. Jet Ski Rentals at Zephyr Cove

Zephyr Cove Marina on the Nevada side rents jet skis ($150-$250/hour) with lake access right from the dock. It's one of the few places you can legally ride jet skis on Tahoe, and the views from the water are extraordinary. Guided tours are also available for those unfamiliar with the lake.

5. Sunset Cruise on the M.S. Dixie II

The M.S. Dixie II is a 520-passenger paddle wheeler that runs daily cruises from Zephyr Cove. The sunset dinner cruise ($75-$120/person) includes a buffet, full bar, and live narration of Tahoe's history as you cruise Emerald Bay. It's touristy in the best way — and Emerald Bay from the water at golden hour is genuinely stunning.

6. Mountain Biking at Northstar

Northstar California Resort opens its lift-served mountain bike park in summer, with trails ranging from beginner flow to expert downhill. Full-day bike park passes run $70-$90 and bike rentals are available on-site. The trails wind through forests with glimpses of the lake — a completely different experience from the same mountain in winter.

7. Beach Day at Secret Cove

Secret Cove is a small, secluded beach on the Nevada side accessible by a short (~10 minute) hike from the highway parking pullout. It's clothing-optional (fair warning) and far less crowded than Sand Harbor or Kings Beach. The water is absurdly blue, and the granite boulder setting is pure Tahoe.

8. Brewery Crawl: Reno to Tahoe

The corridor from Reno to Tahoe has become a legitimate craft beer destination. A suggested route:

• Great Basin Brewing Co. (Sparks) — Nevada's oldest craft brewery, home of Icky IPA
• The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery (Reno) — housed in a 1910 railroad depot
• Alibi Ale Works (Incline Village) — lakeside taproom with award-winning ales
• Stateline Brewery (South Lake Tahoe) — solid pub fare and house beers steps from the lake

Designate a driver or use the TART Connect free transit service around the North Shore.

9. Rock Climbing at Donner Summit

Just 30 minutes from Tahoe's North Shore, Donner Summit offers world-class granite sport and trad climbing. Routes range from 5.6 to 5.13+ across dozens of crags. Guided climbing trips for beginners are available through local outfitters ($150-$250/person for a half day). Find adventure outfitters.

10. Fly Fishing the Truckee River

The Truckee River flows from Lake Tahoe through Reno and offers excellent catch-and-release trout fishing. Guided fly fishing trips ($350-$500 for a half day, 1-2 people) are available from several Reno and Truckee-based outfitters. Summer mornings and evenings produce the best action.

11. Hot Air Balloon Over the Carson Valley

Several operators offer sunrise hot air balloon rides over the Carson Valley, just south of Reno. The views of the Sierra Crest and Lake Tahoe from altitude are unforgettable. Expect to pay $200-$300/person for a 1-hour flight with champagne landing. Book weeks in advance — flights depend on weather and fill quickly.

12. Via Ferrata at Palisades Tahoe

Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley) offers a via ferrata — an iron-rung climbing route bolted into granite — that takes you across a cliff face with massive lake views. Guided tours ($175-$250/person) include all gear and instruction. No climbing experience necessary, but you do need to be comfortable with heights.

For the full summer activity guide with vendor links and booking info, visit our Lake Tahoe Summer Activities guide.