Known as the Sapphire Heart of the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe draws in millions of visitors each year. All who visit the crystal clear lake are rendered speechless by its breathtaking alpine scenery: aquamarine water, sandy beaches, snow-covered mountains, towering pine trees, and bluebird skies. Although Lake Tahoe is a popular skiing destination in the winter, one the best times to visit the largest alpine lake in North America is during the fall. Lake Tahoe’s peak seasons are the summer and the winter, but fall is a time when it’s not only less hectic due to the summer traffic winding down, but you can also view the changing of the seasons in all its spectacular glory.
Like any family vacation, one of the keys to making things run smoothly is to pack everything you need! With high altitude and so many sunny days in the year, Lake Tahoe’s UV index can be high—even when it’s overcast. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen to protect your little one and check off all the items in our ultimate travel packing list once, twice, and even three times. Going on a trip with kids can be as challenging as it is fun, and it isn’t always easy finding family-friendly activities that are also entertaining for the adults. That’s why we made this itinerary to make your fall getaway in Tahoe one for the
DAY ONE
7:00AM: Watch the sunrise on Cave Rock Trail (1430 U.S. 50, Glenbrook, NV)
Formed over 3 million years ago, Cave Rock is still considered a sacred site for the Washoe people, whose ancestors once performed religious ceremonies inside the largest of the caves. It is also known as “The Lady of the Lake” because the profile of a woman’s face looking out toward the lake can be made out from the rock formation. Because Cave Rock is a sacred site and cultural resource, climbing the rock is a banned activity. Parking spots here are scarce, so the earlier, the better. Bring a soft structured baby carrier, as the trail is not stroller-accessible.
Outfit Ideas: Zippered Footie, Sleep Bag Walker, Longall, Bamboo Jersey Zippered Romper
9:00AM: Breakfast at Lakeview Social Revive Coffee (3135 Harrison Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA) and/or a smoothie bowl at Free Bird Chai (3660 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA)
Enjoy breakfast and artisan coffee at Revive, located on-site at Lakeview Social. For a super healthy, super yummy smoothie bowl, head over to Free Bird Chai for your acai or green juice fix.
10:30AM: Rest at the hotel or explore local area
1:00PM: Clear Kayak Tour with Clearly Tahoe (ages 6+)
If you’re traveling with another family or with grandparents who can watch your baby or toddler, this clear kayak tour allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of the lake’s crystal clear waters. Enjoy a one-way paddle the idyllic shoreline of Lake Tahoe in your clear kayak, which allows you to see what’s beneath you. Because the tour is suitable for anyone over the age of 6 and all skill levels, this is a must-do activity for families with elementary school aged children.
Outfit Ideas: Unisex Tee, Leggings, Bamboo Jersey Cardigan
4:00PM Rest at the hotel
6:00PM: Dinner at Base Camp Pizza Co. (1001 Heavenly Village Way #25a, South Lake Tahoe, CA)
Gourmet pizza and Italian food that will satisfy everyone’s palate—including your picky eaters. Located in Heavenly Village, there is live music daily for added entertainment.
7:30PM: Head back to the hotel for bedtime
Outfit Ideas: Toddler Pajama Set, Zippered Footie, 1.0 TOG Sleep Bag
DAY TWO
7:00AM: Breakfast and coffee at Bert’s Cafe (1146 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA)
This charming, family-owned cafe serves all your favorite breakfast foods with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options also available.
8:00AM: Hike to Vikingsholm Castle (Trail off Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA)
To get to the trailhead, take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately 9 miles to the parking lot on the right. This 1.7 mile hike to the castle is short but steep. With nearly 400 feet of elevation gain, you’ll want to leave behind any heavy equipment and make the hike with a soft structured baby carrier. Because this 20-minute hike is on a paved road, a lightweight umbrella stroller may be doable, but leave the wagon for another day.
Outfit Ideas: Zippered Romper, Sleep Bag Walker (to keep littles warm and comfy)
11:00AM: Rest at the hotel
1:00: Lunch at Empanash and explore the Ski Run Marina (900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA)
Enjoy traditional, hand-crafted Argentine empanadas at this family-owned business located in the Ski Run Marina. With many options for activities, shopping, and food, this is a great area for kids to explore!
2:00PM: Rest at the hotel
4:30PM: Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay with Tahoe Cruises
Enjoy a historic tour of the crystal clear lake as the sun sets over sparkling, aquamarine waters. Children under 2 years of age ride for free, but make sure you bring a ring sling or carrier as strollers aren’t allowed on board.
Outfit Ideas: Bamboo Jersey Hooded Jacket, Bamboo Jersey Hooded Romper, Zippered Footie, Ring Sling
7:00PM: Head back to the hotel for bedtime
Outfit Ideas: Zippered Footie, 1.0 TOG Sleep Bag
DAY THREE
8:00AM: Breakfast at the Social House (1001 Heavenly Village Way Suite 3, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150)
Enjoy a delicious gourmet breakfast at one of the most popular restaurants in South Lake Tahoe. Located in Heavenly Village, which boasts the region’s best shopping, food, and entertainment, the Social House is the best way to start your day off right.
10:00AM: Scenic Gondola Ride at Heavenly Village
Take a 2.4 mile ride up in the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, which offers spectacular views that will take your breath away. However, because the Gondola closes operations in October and doesn’t open again until mid November, this will only be available to visitors in the very early or late fall. Since strollers aren’t allowed inside the Gondola (although they’ll gladly store it for you!), bring a ring sling or wrap to keep your little one happy and your arms free to take photos!
Outfit Ideas: Long Sleeve Bodysuit, Pants, Ring Sling
10:30AM: Explore Heavenly Village and grab lunch
Located at the base of the Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola, Heavenly Village has something for everyone. With unique shops, highly rated eateries, a movie theater, and live theater, an ice skating rink, mini golf, and more entertainment, your family will enjoy exploring this area.
12:30PM: Rest at the hotel
2:00PM: Take a 20-mile drive to Hope Valley to view fall foliage
Every fall, in mid-September through around the first week of October, the trees in the Sierra begin to change color. One of the best and most reliable places to view this changing of the seasons is in Hope Valley, which is only a 20 minute drive from Lake Tahoe. Simply head for the junction of US-50 and CA-89 in Meyers, take Highway 89 south over Luther Pass, and Hope Valley will open up below you.
Outfit Ideas: Bamboo Jersey Beanie, Bamboo Jersey Cardigan, Romper
4:00PM: Rest at the hotel
6:00PM: Dinner at Maggie’s inside Desolation Hotel
You’ll be glad you saved Maggie’s for your last dinner in Tahoe. With fresh, seasonal ingredients, heartfelt hospitality, and an intimate dining experience, Maggie’s is an exceptional restaurant that will leave your heart, belly, and taste buds happy.
7:30PM: Head back to the hotel for bedtime
Outfit Ideas: Long Sleeve Bodysuit, Sleep Bag Walker
