A Traveler’s Guide to the Best of the North and South Shores
Fall is a magical time in Lake Tahoe, with the crisp mountain air, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds making it an ideal getaway season. Whether you prefer South Lake Tahoe’s bustling atmosphere or North Lake Tahoe’s serene charm, this guide will help you uncover the local favorites for an unforgettable autumn vacation.
South Lake Tahoe
Places to Stay
- The Ridge Tahoe: Perched on a mountaintop, The Ridge Tahoe offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Cozy up in their spacious suites with fireplaces and enjoy their on-site spa and restaurants.
- Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel: Located just steps away from the Heavenly Village, this all-suite hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to the action. The complimentary breakfast buffet is a great way to start your day.
- Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina: For a rustic experience, consider staying in one of their charming cabins nestled in the woods. Enjoy lakeside dining and water activities at the marina.
Places to Eat
- The Lake House: Savor farm-to-table cuisine with a lake view at The Lake House. Their seasonal menu highlights local ingredients and pairs perfectly with their extensive wine list.
- Edgewood Restaurant: For a fine dining experience, dine at Edgewood Restaurant, known for its exquisite lakefront setting and gourmet dishes. Make a reservation to secure a window seat.
- Base Camp Pizza Co.: If you’re looking for a casual meal, Base Camp Pizza Co. offers delicious wood-fired pizzas and a fun atmosphere. Try their inventive toppings and craft beers.
Things to Do
- Fall Foliage Hike: Explore the colorful landscapes by taking a hike on one of South Lake Tahoe’s scenic trails, like the Van Sickle Bi-State Park Trail or the Taylor Creek Visitor Center trails.
- Boat Tour: Enjoy a leisurely boat tour on Lake Tahoe to soak in the beauty of the changing leaves and stunning shoreline. Companies like Zephyr Cove Resort offer daily tours.
- Harvest Festival: Check out the annual Valhalla Renaissance Faire or Oktoberfest in South Lake Tahoe for fun fall festivals featuring food, music, and entertainment.
North Lake Tahoe
Places to Stay
- The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: Experience luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, which offers ski-in/ski-out access in the winter and hiking and biking trails in the fall. Their spa and dining options are top-notch.
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino: Enjoy lakeside accommodations and a private beach at this resort. The Lone Eagle Grille offers lakefront dining with a cozy fireplace.
- Granlibakken Tahoe: This historic resort offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering pines. Stay in their townhomes or cozy cabins and explore the nearby trails.
Places to Eat
- Soule Domain: Nestled in a historic home, Soule Domain offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring wild game, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options. Don’t miss their famous chocolate mousse.
- Gar Woods Grill & Pier: Dine right on the lake at Gar Woods Grill & Pier. Try their famous “Wet Woody” cocktail and enjoy stunning sunset views from their pier.
- Jason’s Beachside Grille: Located in Kings Beach, Jason’s Beachside Grille is known for its delicious seafood and lakefront dining. Try their fish tacos and clam chowder.
Things to Do
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive along the Lake Tahoe Scenic Byway to admire the fall foliage. Donner Pass Road and Highway 28 offer breathtaking views.
- Emerald Bay State Park: Hike down to the stunning Emerald Bay, where you can explore Vikingsholm Castle and take in the vibrant colors surrounding the bay.
- Tahoe City Oktoberfest: Join in the fun at the Tahoe City Oktoberfest, featuring live music, craft beers, and Bavarian food. It’s a great way to embrace the fall spirit.
Fall Golf in Lake Tahoe
Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course (South Lake Tahoe)
Why It’s Special: Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course is not only renowned for its challenging layout but also for its breathtaking scenery. Nestled along the shores of Lake Tahoe, this course offers golfers incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially in the fall when the foliage is ablaze with autumn colors.
Tips: Try to secure an early morning tee time to experience the course when the sun is rising, casting a golden glow on the lake. Don’t forget your camera!
Coyote Moon Golf Course (Truckee)
Why It’s Special: Located in the nearby town of Truckee, Coyote Moon Golf Course is known for its stunning forested setting and challenging holes. In the fall, the course is blanketed with vibrant colors from the surrounding trees, creating a picturesque golfing experience.
Tips: Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and foxes as you make your way through this scenic course.
Tahoe City Golf Course (North Lake Tahoe)
Why It’s Special: Tahoe City Golf Course offers a more relaxed and affordable golfing experience compared to some of the other courses in the area. This nine-hole gem is surrounded by towering pines, providing a serene and picturesque setting for a round of golf.
Tips: Play this course early in the morning to enjoy the tranquil ambiance and cooler temperatures of a Lake Tahoe fall morning.
Old Greenwood Golf Course (Truckee)
Why It’s Special: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Old Greenwood Golf Course is a premier golf destination in the Lake Tahoe region. The course is known for its championship-level layout and stunning fall vistas as the fairways wind through the lush woods.
Tips: If you’re looking for a golf challenge, this course won’t disappoint. It’s also a great spot for golfers who appreciate a fine dining experience, as it boasts a top-notch restaurant.
Bijou Municipal Golf Course (South Lake Tahoe)
Why It’s Special: Bijou Municipal Golf Course offers an affordable and relaxed golfing experience, perfect for players of all skill levels. The course features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and in the fall, the changing leaves add to its charm.
Tips: This course is a great option for families or casual golfers looking to enjoy a round without breaking the bank.
Incline Village Championship Golf Course (North Lake Tahoe)
Why It’s Special: This course offers a unique blend of mountain and lake views. The combination of challenging holes and stunning scenery makes it a must-visit for golfers in the Lake Tahoe area during the fall.
Tips: Take advantage of the practice facilities here to fine-tune your game before hitting the links.
Fall golf in Lake Tahoe is a truly memorable experience, with each course offering its own blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking to enjoy a leisurely round in a stunning setting, Lake Tahoe’s golf courses in the fall won’t disappoint.
Whether you choose the South or North Shore of Lake Tahoe for your fall vacation, you’re sure to find a wealth of local favorites to make your trip memorable. Embrace the autumnal beauty, indulge in delicious cuisine, and explore the unique activities each area has to offer. Happy travels!
