The Perfect 72 Hours in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe tends to attract major crowds during the summer and winter months. The lake brings boaters and the snow brings adrenaline junkies. I think Lake Tahoe is highly overlooked as a fall destination. It’s actually when I’d prefer to visit because it’s quiet and a gem for leaf peepers like me. Because it’s a 3 hour drive from San Francisco, Lake Tahoe is perfect for a three day weekend getaway. Three days may seem like a short time in Lake Tahoe but a lot can be accomplished! Below I’ve listed activities that are a must-do during a weekend in Lake Tahoe.

Watch the sunrise at Emerald Bay — Just a 40 minute drive south from our hotel at Squaw Valley is Emerald Bay, one of the most photographed locations in the USA. There’s a parking lot with a lookout point with benches right next to it. If you’re a little daring and not scared of heights, you can trek off the beaten path and find a boulder to prop yourself on. Sunrises can be a pain to get up early for, but I swear it is worth it in the end. The blazing orange bursting through the mountains is a scene I won’t forget.

Sunset Boat Cruise on the Lake — With a lake as beautiful as Lake Tahoe, it would be a shame not to a take a boat ride during your trip. The lake is so beautiful, pristine and blue. Like…unbelievably BLUE. We sailed with Tahoe Sailing Charters who took us out on a private charter boat stocked with refreshments and snacks. We left from a dock in Tahoe City and our guide took us all around the lake. While the cruise itself was a great experience, the true highlight was the miraculous sunset. Pastels shades filled the sky.

After we returned to the dock after our sunset cruise, we crossed the street over to Pioneer Cocktail Club where we grabbed dinner and cocktails.

Rock Climbing at Donner Lake — Rock climbing has been on my bucket list and I’m so lucky that I got to have my first outdoor rock climbing experience with Alpen Expedition. Alpen Expedition is a group of rock climbing professionals that lead climbing expeditions all year round. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, their well-rounded staff has got your back. For this certain expedition, many out of our group were beginners, so Alpen Glow took us to a boulder dubbed the “School Rock.” It’s great for beginners and has an amazing view of Donner Lake.

During my expedition I learned that Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for rock climbers and that there’s strong community of rock climbers present in Lake Tahoe.

Hike to Secret Cove and/or Sand Harbor — Secret Cove and Sand Harbor are two very beautiful coves. Sand Harbor is easier to access than Secret Harbor. There’s a parking lot right next to the harbor and you can walk on the boardwalk that perimeters the harbor. There’s a beach that you can relax on, or if you prefer to be active, there a kayaks and paddles boards for rent.

Just 2.6 miles south of Sand Harbor is Secret Cove, which is more challenging to get to. The trail is steep at first and then mellows out to a gentle 3/4-mile track. To access Secret Cove, follow the trail down, and when you come to a fork in the trail, take the left trail. Taking a right will take you to Chimney Beach. The first real cove that you will come to is Secret Cove. The cove is a popular nudist beach. Although me and my friend aren’t nudist, we still enjoyed the cove and the people there were so nice.

Visit The Village at Squaw Valley — To break up all the outdoor activities, take a trip to the The Village during your down time. The Village is your one-stop shop for all things entertainment. There’s shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. They also have awesome accommodations. Their rooms are made of condominium suites with a full kitchen, living space with a fireplace, and a balcony. And if you need that extra R&R after all your outdoor activities, there 8 hot tubs across the property, which is a true treat especially during the winter.

Taking the aerial tram is a must if you’re at The Village. The tram takes you up to High Camp where there are restaurants, ski slopes, a pool and hot tub. And while on the tram, make sure to take in the 360 degree views of the Sierras. So spectacular!