We see so many similar questions on groups and forums for visiting Lake Tahoe. One of the most common questions is: Is the drive around Lake Tahoe worth it?
Well, the short answer is YES!!!
- With plenty of breathtaking routes with this clear blue lake on one side and mountain backdrops, the drive around the Lake is surely worth it.
- The circumference of the Lake is 72 miles, and it takes about 3 hours to drive around.
- You can drive through various Lake Tahoe towns, including Incline Village, Crystal Bay, Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach, Carnelian Bay, Zephyr Cove, Meeks Bay, and Tahoe City.
It is challenging to choose just one place to visit at Lake Tahoe, given all its scenic views. But lucky for you, it is possible to explore the surrounding areas of Lake Tahoe by driving all the way around the Lake. There are breathtaking routes that will take you through several small towns and offer picturesque views of the Lake.
But first, a story from the 1980’s.
It was a cold winter day around noon.
I was having a late breakfast at the Old Post Office Cafe with some friends that I worked with from Tahoe City Parks and Rec.
Suddenly, a bright neon clad skier came clomping up to our table wearing his ski boots (this is not normal and is frowned upon!).
He says to us: “So you guys are locals. If highway 89 is closed, how do the locals get around the lake?”
My friend Debbie deadpanned “well the tunnel under the lake, of course.”
He looked all excited and leaned in closer. “REALLY???” he asked.
“NOOO!!!” Debbie said. “The lake is a circle. The road is a circle. If it’s broken it’s broken. Dude, just sit down and have some breakfast.”
He was not amused, and took his neon clad body and clomped his way right back out of that cafe, much to the relief of our eyeballs.
Things to Know Before Driving Around Lake Tahoe
Driving around Lake Tahoe offers breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. For a smooth trip, consider several essentials.
Best Times to Drive Around the Lake
Plan your scenic drive around Lake Tahoe between late spring and early fall, as the weather’s usually mild, with clear roads and fewer traffic issues.
Winter can be challenging due to snow-covered roads and tire chain requirements, especially on passes.
Summer months can be busier with tourists, so start early to avoid crowds and secure parking spots.
Where to Refuel Along the Lake
Ensure your car’s fueled up before driving around Lake Tahoe. Gas stations are available in major towns like Tahoe City, South Lake Tahoe, and Incline Village.
\Tahoe City offers the most central location, making it convenient for topping up.
South Lake Tahoe has many options, while Incline Village has fewer but sufficient stations. Keep an eye on your fuel gauge, as stations are spaced out.
Best Parking Spots Around the Lake
Parking around Lake Tahoe can be competitive, especially at popular spots.
For beaches and trailheads, check out parking facilities in areas like Sand Harbor, Emerald Bay, and Kings Beach. Arrive early, as spaces fill up quickly.
For town visits, Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe have designated lots and street parking. Always follow local parking regulations to avoid fines.
Routes and Directions
To fully experience driving around Lake Tahoe, start in South Lake Tahoe and head north on Highway 89. Take in Emerald Bay’s views, then continue to Tahoe City.
From there, merge onto Highway 28 to Kings Beach before heading south along the lake’s east side. This route covers the entire circumference of the lake, giving you access to all the scenic spots and towns.
How Much Does it Cost to Drive Around Lake Tahoe?
Driving around Lake Tahoe is relatively inexpensive. The main cost includes fuel, with an average round trip being 72 miles. Gas prices in the area average around $4.50 per gallon.
Parking fees at popular spots like Emerald Bay and Sand Harbor range from $5 to $10.
Plan for other expenses such as snacks and possible entry fees to parks. On a budget, the experience can be enjoyed for under $50.
Is The Drive Around Lake Tahoe Worth It?
The full drive around Lake Tahoe takes about 3 hours to drive all 72 miles.
It’s worth it to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way, so plan some extra time.
Here are some of the best routes to take if you want to know if the drive around Lake Tahoe is worth it.
Start Your Drive Around Lake Tahoe
Begin the scenic drive in South Lake Tahoe. This bustling town provides easy access to Highway 89, taking you through beautiful Emerald Bay.
South Lake Tahoe is home to several rental car services if you need a vehicle.
As you start, stock up on snacks and fuel. Tahoe City, located north of Emerald Bay, makes an excellent mid-point for a break. Here, you can enjoy local cafes and refuel.
Which Side Has the Best Views?
The western shore of Lake Tahoe, with Highway 89, is renowned for its stunning panoramic views. Emerald Bay, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque Fannette Island, is a highlight.
Continuing north, you’ll encounter lush forests and mountain vistas. The eastern shore, covered by Highway 28, offers a different charm.
Sand Harbor, with its sandy beaches and clear waters, is a must-visit. Both sides have their unique appeal, so consider driving a full loop for the complete experience.
Incline Village Route
If traveling from Reno, take U.S. 395 south and exit at exit 24 to continue on NV-431 W/Mt. Follow Mt. Rose Hwy for about 25 miles till you arrive in Incline Village, which is where you can visit the famous Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort.
The resort has easy access to outdoor adventures and attractions like hiking, biking, and skiing. Additionally, there is a wide, paved bike pathway that provides breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe on the route from Tunnel Creek to Sand Harbor.
Explore Lake Tahoe bike rentals here.
Kings Beach
If you drive into the Lake Tahoe region from Truckee, CA, you will probably land at Kings Beach first. For those who have driven here from Nevada, after enjoying the picturesque beauty of Lake Tahoe at Incline Village, you will continue driving south to Kings Beach.
The scenic views from this location will be well worth the roughly 1.3 miles you’ll need to drive on a curvy, uphill road.
To enjoy this view to the fullest, you can also stop and put your feet in the sand or go for a walk through the adorable mountain town, which is brimming with more places to shop and eat.
If you’re planning to swim in Lake Tahoe beaches, make sure to read this guide first.
Crystal Bay
This is on the border of California and Nevada. You will find a couple of older casinos at the state line, so stop in for a quick game if you want. Buck’s Beach (Speedboat Beach) is the first beach you can access here (park at the old Cal-Neva casino and walk- this casino is no longer open, but has parking nearby).
Read our article about some fascinating history behind the Cal-Neva casino here.
It’s a beautiful view of the Lake Tahoe boulders against that beautiful water and mountains in the background.
Carnelian Bay
Rob White from Google photos
The bright-colored pebbles that lined the beachfront when Carnelian Bay were originally discovered by inhabitants who named the beach. Since then, the bay is referred to by this original name.
Carnelian Bay is a terrific place to kayak or fish if you’re ready to get out on the water. You can spend your day paddling around or cast a line and wait for a big catch.
Tahoe City
https://www.facebook.com/VisitTahoeCity
To reach Tahoe City from Carnelian Bay, travel another six miles west on Nevada Route 28. Tahoe City is a small town in the Sierra Nevada mountain range founded in 1864.
This is where the Truckee river originates.
There is a Safeway, lodging, some great restaurants, shopping, skiing at Granlibakken and Commons Beach here.
This is a great place to grab snacks or a meal before you meander further around the lake.
Meeks Bay
This is a day-use beach area located between Sugar Pine Point State Park and DL Bliss State Park. There are no dogs allowed on the beach here. You can picnic here, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding if you have your own equipment, or just enjoy the view before you drive on further.
The beach is large, and when the summer crowds are at Kings Beach, you may find more space here- make sure you bring your own snacks and food.
WARNING: Be careful – the slope of the lake floor here has a very steep drop-off, so if you allow your kids to play in the water, you want to watch them 100% of the time.
As you continue driving south on Hwy 89, you will come to one of the best views around the entire Lake at Emerald Bay.
But first, you might want to stop at Vikingsholm. Vikingsholm is a stately manor house built in the 1920s and considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States.
A famous Swedish architect, Lennart Palme, designed this unique home and it overlooks Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe, California. It is now in a part of the park called the Harvey West Unit. The house is open to the public during the summer months.
Emerald Bay
Photo by Lisa Cheng
The drive to Emerald Bay is a scenic adventure, taking you through winding roads with stunning views of the Lake at every turn. As you reach the overlook, you’ll be met with a picturesque vista of Fannette Island, perched in the center of the bay with a storybook-like tea house.
It’s no wonder that Emerald Bay is often touted as one of the best routes to explore Lake Tahoe’s wonders. It’s simply an experience that’s impossible to forget!
Fannette Island is the only island in Lake Tahoe, located at the southwestern tip of the Lake and home to the Emerald Bay State Park. The parking is limited, but it is worth it for the view. The short but rewarding hike will take you to Eagle Falls, where the water can run down the granite cliffs.
South Lake Tahoe
El Dorado Beach Lake Tahoe
Just before you reach the city of South Lake Tahoe, the road changes to Hwy 50. If you’re looking for a place to stop and have some fun in South Lake Tahoe, you should definitely check out El Dorado Beach or Van Sickle Bi-State Park.
At El Dorado Beach, you can enjoy the sun and the water – there’s plenty of room to lay out a towel and relax, or you can go for a swim.
If you’re feeling more active, Van Sickle Bi-State Park is perfect – there are lots of trails to explore, and you can do it on foot, horseback, or mountain bike.
And since South Lake Tahoe straddles the state line between California and Nevada, you’ll be able to find all sorts of activities here – from shopping and dining to casinos.
This is also home to Heavenly Ski Resort which offers year-round activities, including gondola rides, zip-lining, and of course, world-class skiing. The resort is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and provides stunning views of Lake Tahoe. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Shortly, you will drive over the border into Nevada, and see some of the Casinos. This is a very small town called Stateline, and unless you’re paying attention you won’t even notice. Stop by one of the casinos and try your luck!!!
Zephyr Cove
Zephyr Cove is a great spot to visit if you’re looking for a short drive from South Lake Tahoe. The area offers beaches (including a dog-friendly area) and nearby hiking trails.
Logan Shoals Vista Trail is popular for those exploring the area on foot. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the water or go for a hike, Zephyr Cove is the perfect place to do it!
As you begin your drive away from Zephyr Cove, take a moment to enjoy the scenic view. The winding road ahead will take you past some beautiful scenery, including a tunnel known as Cave Rock. This unique formation is a 300-foot-tall volcanic stone that juts out of the water and is truly a sight to see.
Continue your drive around Lake Tahoe, on Hwy 50 back to Incline Village unless you are headed back to Reno.
There is even a nude beach on the way called Secret Cove Nude Beach. There is no need to get naked to be here, but please be respectful of the folks who are choosing this option. This means no photos of people sunning themselves, please!
Sand Harbor
Most of the pictures you will see online with Lake Tahoe and the boulders will be from Sand Harbor. If you want to go here during the summer or holidays, you will want to get here very early in the day and book for parking reservations.
Once the parking lot is full, they shut it down. It’s not easy to find rideshares to drop you here either, so please plan accordingly.
They have very nice public restrooms that are cleaned regularly. Bring layers, as it might be chilly in the morning and evening and warm during the day, depending on the season.
Enjoy your continued drive back to where you began or onto other adventures! These are just some of the most famous stops to experience the stunning beauty and incredible wonders that are waiting in Lake Tahoe.
FAQ
Q: Is the drive around Lake Tahoe worth it?
A: Yes, the drive around Lake Tahoe is very much worth the time.There are many scenic routes that showcase beautiful views of the Lake and surrounding mountains.
Q: How long does it take to drive around the scenic routes?
A: It takes about 3 hours to drive around the circumference of the Lake, but it will depend on how often and where you stop. Make a day of it, you won’t regret it!
Q: Which are the best routes to drive around the Lake?
A: Either way you go, this drive is worth it. You can drive through various Lake Tahoe cities and beaches with amazing mountain views, including Incline Village, Crystal Bay, Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach, Carnelian Bay, Zephyr Cove, Meeks Bay, and Tahoe City.
My husband and I love to fish at Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, and we can often be found taking visiting friends and family on boat trips around the lakes.
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