Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City
Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take in the stunning state parks of Emerald Bay, Eagle Lake, D.L. Bliss and Sugar Pine, scattered along Lake Tahoe’s West shore, on a driving tour.
On this tour, you’ll explore the early community of Al Tahoe, the Tallac Historic Site, and view three early Tahoe summer homes. The tour continues with optional hikes to Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay, Eagle Falls, and Eagle Rock. Enjoy the picturesque splendor of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding snow-capped mountains as you drive, along the way hearing stories about:
• Some of Tahoe’s colorful characters
• Early Native American history in the Tahoe Basin
• Lake Tahoe’s early history
• The trees of Tahoe’s pine forest
• Historic homes dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s
• The history of gaming in Lake Tahoe
This driving tour can be completed in about two hours without any stops. Along the way, you’ll have the option of visiting a number of state parks. Parking fees are not included in the price of this tour.
Available options
Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City
What's included
VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour takes place in South Lake Tahoe.
2
The tour passes by the Camp Richardson Marina.
3
The tour passes by the Tallac Historic Site.
4
The tour includes an optional stop at Inspiration Point Vista.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
The tour passes by Vikingsholm.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
The tour passes by Emerald Bay State Park.
7
The tour passes by D.L. Bliss State Park.
8
The tour passes by Meeks Bay Beach.
9
The tour passes by Sugar Pine State Park.
10
The tour passes by the Chambers Landing Bar and Restaurant.
11
The tour passes by Eagle Rock Hiking Trail.
12
The tour passes by the Gatekeeper's Museum.
13
The tour ends in Tahoe City.
What's not included
Food and drink
Smartphone and headphones
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
17 reviews
5★
9
4★
3
3★
2
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.2
15 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Public transportation options are available nearby
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake straddling the border between California and Nevada. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain scenery, and year-round outdoor activities, it's a premier destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.
Top Attractions
Emerald Bay State Park
A stunning natural area known for its clear waters, granite cliffs, and the historic Vikingsholm mansion. The park offers hiking, picnicking, and scenic views.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (parking fee in summer)
Heavenly Mountain Resort
One of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities like mountain biking and gondola rides.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)
Tahoe City
A charming lakeside town with a historic downtown, shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities. It's a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy the lake.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, costs vary for activities
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
A premier ski resort offering exceptional skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities. It's known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)
D.L. Bliss State Park
A beautiful state park with sandy beaches, clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. It's a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (parking fee in summer)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tahoe Trout
A local delicacy, often grilled or pan-seared and served with lemon and herbs. The trout is known for its delicate flavor and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Dinner
Gluten-free, low-carb options available
Gourmet Pizza
Lake Tahoe is famous for its gourmet pizzas, often featuring local ingredients like wild mushrooms, fresh trout, and artisanal cheeses.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Craft Beer
The region is home to several craft breweries, offering a variety of local beers. Many restaurants and bars feature these brews on tap.
Drink
Gluten-free options available at some breweries
Sierra Nevada Wine
While not as famous as Napa or Sonoma, the Sierra Nevada region produces excellent wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Drink
Vegan and organic options available
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spas and wellness retreats
Scenic gondola rides
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to March)
Summer offers ideal weather for water activities, hiking, and sightseeing, while winter brings excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. Both seasons are popular for different reasons.
15-30°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter)
59-86°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Tahoe is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards and take precautions to stay safe.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when driving in winter conditions.
- • Carry a map and compass for hiking, as cell service can be spotty.
- • Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
Getting there
By air
- Reno-Tahoe International Airport • 50 miles (80 km) from South Lake Tahoe
- Sacramento International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe
By bus
South Lake Tahoe Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transportation, with routes connecting major towns and attractions. Services are frequent in summer and winter, but less so in shoulder seasons.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
South Lake Tahoe
Tahoe City
Incline Village
Truckee
Day trips
Virginia City
30 miles (48 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day
A historic mining town with a rich past, offering a glimpse into the Old West. Visit museums, shops, and saloons that hark back to the 19th century.
Yosemite National Park
120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Full day or overnight
One of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. A must-visit for nature lovers.
Reno, Nevada
40 miles (64 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day
A vibrant city known for its casinos, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Explore museums, art galleries, and enjoy the nightlife.
Festivals
Tahoe City Winter Sports Park Festival • January
Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run • June
Tahoe Shakespeare Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Emerald Bay State Park for stunning views and hiking trails.
- Take a gondola ride at Heavenly Mountain Resort for breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
- Explore Tahoe City's historic downtown and waterfront activities.
- Try local specialties like Tahoe Trout and gourmet pizzas.
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
