Lake Tahoe in the Fall: Weather Tips & Best Places to Go
There’s a hush that falls over Lake Tahoe in the fall, a golden stillness that settles between the summer crowds and winter snow. The air sharpens. The lake darkens. And if you know where to look, this shoulder season reveals its quiet magic.
I live in California, and I’ve spent enough autumns in Tahoe to know its rhythm—when the aspen leaves turn, when the crowds thin, when the light shifts just so. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in the fall, along with insider tips on where to go, what to expect from the weather, and how to make the most of this fleeting, breathtaking season.
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Why Visit Lake Tahoe in the Fall?
There are several reasons Lake Tahoe in the fall is a good idea. There are fewer people and lower prices on accommodations.
In the fall, Lake Tahoe becomes a canvas beautifully painted with vibrant colors.
Similar to the foliage change on the East Coast, like the Berkshires’ fall foliage, as the season in Lake Tahoe progresses, the aspens surrounding the lake transform, adorning themselves in red, orange, yellow, and green shades.
The fall colors create a breathtaking backdrop as you explore the area. Spooner Lake, in particular, boasts picturesque groves of aspen trees that display various colors during this time.
Typical Lake Tahoe Weather in the Fall
Autumn at Lake Tahoe is a transitional season, where the warmth of summer starts to give way to the chill of winter.
The months of September, October, and November each showcase unique weather patterns and promise a variety of experiences
Lake Tahoe in September
In September, you can still enjoy mild temperatures and sunny days, with daytime highs ranging from the low 60s to the high 70s°F (around 15 to 25°C).
Mornings and nights may feel a bit cooler, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket for those chilly moments.
While most of the month boasts clear skies, you can expect a few cloudy days, adding to the region’s beauty.
Lake Tahoe in October
As you transition into October, the temperatures gradually dip as the month progresses.
October daytime highs can vary between the mid-50s to the low 70s°F (around 13 to 22°C), while the nighttime lows can drop down to the 30s°F (-1 to 4°C).
This is also when fall foliage makes its grand appearance, turning the landscape into a vibrant display of colors.
It is a great moment to appreciate the captivating hues of autumn, and a cozy jacket will keep you comfortable while exploring the outdoors.
Lake Tahoe in November
By the time November arrives, the temperatures continue to drop, with daytime highs hovering around the low 50s°F (around 10°C) and nighttime lows dipping into the 20s°F (-5 to -2°C).
Packaging warmer clothing is essential, as snowfall can occur this month, transforming Lake Tahoe into a winter wonderland.
While November might be cooler, it is still a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor activities before winter fully sets in.
Looking to rent a car for your Lake Tahoe Trip? I only use Discover Cars. for their FREE cancellation policy and the most competitive rates. Click here. 🚘
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe in the Fall
No matter the time of year, you must take a cruise on Emerald Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in Tahoe.
Cruise Lake Tahoe
There are many options for taking a boat in Lake Tahoe and many 5-star tours available.
Our first pick is this 5-star Private Charter around Emerald Lake.
⛴️ Book here for Private Charter around Emerald Bay. Cruise Emerald Bay on an elegant boat with a captain and up to five friends. This is a personalized experience, well worth the time. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Or, if you’re more into sailing, this sailing cruise in South Lake Tahoe in a 40-foot sailboat also wins rave reviews.
⛵️ This 2-hour sailboat cruise around South Lake Tahoe is 5-star rated and likely to sell out. Book Tahoe Blue sailboat here. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sail Tahoe Blue for 2 hours around South Lake Tahoe. Beer, wine, and drinks are included in the tour. What a great way to get to know the lake.
Emerald Lake is one of the most beautiful spots in Lake Tahoe, where you can see Fannette Island, the only island on Lake Tahoe.
Being on a boat on the lake gives you a different perspective of Lake Tahoe.
Admire the stunning aqua hue of the water to the coastline draped in lush emerald evergreen woods and bright yellow leaves, creating a picturesque contrast with the water’s beauty.
Take a Scenic Drive Around Lake Tahoe
The picturesque journey around Lake Tahoe spans 72 miles in a loop; it can be completed in around 3 hours of non-stop driving.
Naturally, you’d want to allocate additional time for stopping and taking in the breathtaking beauty along the way.
If you are taking this scenic route, dedicate an entire day to driving it so you can take your time and soak up the environment.
Download this audio tour that helps you navigate the drive. Just pop it on your Bluetooth and follow the directions. You’ll learn about trivia and the area’s history as you drive to different landmarks. 🚘
Must Stops on Lake Tahoe Drive
Below are some stops you don’t want to miss when you take the 72-mile loop around Lake Tahoe.
Kings Beach
King’s Beach in Lake Tahoe boasts a captivating blend of soft sands, crystalline waters, and a vibrant lakeside atmosphere.
The mountain town is charming.
Sugar Pine Point State Park
Sugar Pine Point State Park in Lake Tahoe offers a serene retreat with its towering pine trees, historic estates, and pristine shoreline.
D.L. Bliss State Park
D.L. Bliss State Park sits on the west shore of Lake Tahoe and is a nature enthusiast’s paradise, featuring stunning panoramic views, scenic hiking trails, and secluded coves perfect for tranquil lakeside relaxation.
It’s home to a lighthouse with the highest elevation in the United States.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Don’t want to drive but want to take the 72-mile loop around Lake Tahoe? Book this highly rated Shuttle Tour, which takes you around the shore with stops in Emerald Bay, Sand Harbor, Squaw Valley, and Tahoe City. 🚌
Inspiration Point at Emerald Bay
Also on the west shore, Inspiration Point at Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking vista of the iconic bay’s vivid blue waters of the lake and Fannette Island, creating an awe-inspiring scene that lives up to its name.
Cave Rock
Cave Rock is a monumental natural formation at Lake Tahoe, offering a captivating blend of geological wonder and panoramic lake views.
It has a small beach for snorkeling, swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing.
Sand Harbor State Park
Sand Harbor State Park sits on the east shore. It has a lovely white-sandy beach and a boardwalk for easy access.
Incline Village and Tahoe City
For eats, stop by Incline Village on the Nevada Side for the most dining options. Tahoe City is also a great place to stop for a meal with many options.
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Lake Tahoe Foliage
Experience Lake Tahoe’s captivating fall foliage with scenic drives and hikes that provide up-close views of vibrant aspen displays.
The prime time for leaf peeping is October, when aspen, willow, cottonwoods, and grasses adorn the landscape in yellow, gold, orange, and red hues.
Below are some of the best places to enjoy fall in Lake Tahoe.
Fallen Leaf Lake
Fallen Leaf Lake is a stunning fall getaway, offering stunning views of Mt. Tallac.
Begin by parking at the campground and embarking on a lakeside trail, affording you the option to stroll along the shoreline before your return.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Saint Francis Chapel (also known as the Fallen Leaf Chapel) – its charming design amidst aspen hues creates fantastic photo opportunities.
Located on the lake’s southern edge, the chapel is accessed via the narrow Fallen Leaf Road.
Should you venture farther along the road, past the two fire stations, a picturesque waterfall awaits, another prime spot for photos.
Just a brief 15-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, the route to the lake is adorned with abundant aspen color.
Hope Valley
Hope Valley emerges as an autumn wonderland adorned with a rich tapestry of vibrant foliage. Crowned by the Sierra Nevadas and an evergreen forest as its backdrop, Hope Valley is not to be missed.
Stop at the roadside turnout for photos of the Hope Valley cabin along Highway 88, leading travelers towards the majestic Sierra Nevada Peaks.
Sorensen’s Resort makes a great place to stop for lunch or dinner while on your journey through this seasonal spectacle.
Highway 4 to Ebbetts Pass
Highway 4 offers a bold fall drive, showcasing vibrant aspen foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Keep an eye out for particularly picturesque colors along the East Fork of the Carson River and the surrounding creek banks.
Zephyr Cove and Sand Harbor
Native fall color is scarce along Lake Tahoe’s immediate shoreline, but Zephyr Cove and Sand Harbor on the eastern shore offer pockets of leafy hues.
Zephyr Cove Resort is the home to a cluster of aspen trees that transition to yellow and orange in October.
While at Sand Harbor in the early fall, you will encounter a few non-aspen trees with captivating colors against the azure waters.
The planted trees at Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe create a vibrant display of orange and red maples, offering a colorful treat while shopping.
Markleeville
Markleeville, situated along Highway 89, is a charming destination renowned for its captivating autumn foliage.
The journey to Markleeville from South Lake Tahoe also boasts vibrant aspen displays, inviting travelers to pause for picturesque photo opportunities.
Stop by the historic Alpine County Courthouse for aspen-adorned scenery, then explore the town with its eateries and boutiques for a delightful bite to eat or a shopping experience.
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Lake Tahoe Fall Activities: Kayaking and SUP-ING
Want more of an active vacation in Tahoe during the fall? Try a kayaking tour or Stand-up paddleboarding.
You can get up close and personal with the lake while on the lake. You may need a wetsuit because the water will be chilly, but you’ll be able to appreciate Tahoe’s beauty while on the water.
While there are rentals where you can just go out from different launch areas around the lake, it’s best to take a guided tour during the fall.
The water in Lake Tahoe will be icy cold and dangerous, take precautions if you’re inexperienced.
Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals in South Lake Tahoe 🚣🏼♂️
This highly-rated kayak tour leaves Sand Harbor State Park and takes you to Bonsai Rock. They will give you all the necessary equipment and direction on staying safe. The kayaks are transparent, so you can see the bottom of the blue-green waters!
Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
More Lake Tahoe Fall Activities: Mountain Biking
Lake Tahoe is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven, offering an array of mountain biking trails alongside its renowned hiking routes.
These trails cater to diverse skill levels, from novice riders seeking easy paths to experienced cyclists seeking exhilarating challenges.
The Tahoe Rim Trail
The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail offers an epic loop encircling Lake Tahoe, with bike access on specific stretches.
Choose a section suitable for your skill level for a day ride, like the moderate 11.5-mile round trip called The Bench, which boasts spectacular Lake Tahoe vistas and concludes at a wooden bench at South Camp.
Spanning 14 miles, the challenging Stanford Rock Loop offers mostly single-track terrain with engaging rock steps, adding a technical element to the ride, while boasting breathtaking vistas.
The Flume Trail
For a must-try biking experience at Lake Tahoe, opt for the Flume Trail. Regarded as a premier route in the western US, it provides breathtaking east shore vistas of the lake.
Embark on a roughly 21-mile loop trail beginning at Spooner Lake, ascending to Marlette Lake, and continuing along the ridge to reach a vantage point a few thousand feet above the lake, affording stunning views.
This mostly single-track trail is categorized as moderate in difficulty.
Burton Creek State Park
Situated close to Tahoe City, Burton Creek State Park presents a six-mile unpaved road catering to mountain biking and hiking.
Amid the park’s diverse conifers and shrubs, you might glimpse hints of autumnal hues from cottonwoods, while wildlife sightings add to the biking experience.
Exploring through meadows, these trails can seamlessly merge with external systems, enabling extended rides.
Powerline Trail
The Powerline Trail, a moderate single-track mountain biking route in South Lake Tahoe, spans 7 miles one way. Begin at Saddle Road’s end on Ski Run Boulevard and conclude at Oneidas Road before retracing your path or arranging a ride back.
Passing through a pine forest and linking with the Tahoe Rim Trail, the option to transform it into a loop arises by incorporating Cold Creek Trail or Saxon’s Creek Trail sections.
Aren’t up for mountain biking on a manual bike? Experience the East Shore tail on this half-day E-Bike Tour. 🚴🏻
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Hiking Lake Tahoe in the Fall
Hiking is another great way to see this beautiful area in the fall.
Spooner Lake
Exploring the Spooner Lake trail is a top autumn foliage hike near Lake Tahoe. Consider extending your hike from Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake for additional hues.
Spooner Lake, situated within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park on the Nevada side, features a 2.5-mile flat loop ideal for families adorned with interpretive signs along the lakeshore route.
During autumn, vibrant yellow, gold, orange, and red hues emerge from the aspen and willow trees.
Watch for waterfowl and wildlife during your walk, as Spooner Lake is their habitat.
Pro Tip: Combine visits to Spooner Lake and Sand Harbor on the same day to save on parking fees. 💵
Emerald Point and Vikingsholm
To reach Emerald Point, begin by hiking down to Vikingsholm Castle on Lake Tahoe’s western shore in Emerald Bay.
From there, proceed to the water’s edge and follow the Rubicon Trail.
Around 2.5 miles into the hike, you’ll encounter a cluster of tall evergreens on the right, marking Emerald Point.
While you don’t need to reach the point, exploring along the shore or proceeding slightly past Emerald Point for an open Lake Tahoe view is available.
The hike provides expansive views of Emerald Bay and Fannette Island, allowing access to the water.
Classified as moderate, keep in mind the steep ascent when returning.
❣️Vikingsholm Castle closes on September 30 for the season, making early fall the best time for interior tours.
When visiting during its open period, arriving early is advisable due to limited parking availability later in the day.
Sand Harbor State Park Boardwalk Trail
Ideal for a wide range of Lake Tahoe visitors, including families with young children, this brief, level, and straightforward boardwalk trail is located at Sand Harbor State Park on the Nevada shore of the lake.
This 0.5-mile nature loop, accompanied by interpretive signage, traces the lakeshore, enabling clear views of the crystalline waters and the pebbles beneath.
The trail, adorned with charming boulders, evergreens, and wildlife, boasts captivating scenery.
While some fall color is present, the trail primarily focuses on its picturesque surroundings. Offering splendid vistas of Lake Tahoe and its encircling mountains, the trail’s sunset scenery is particularly striking, offering numerous photo opportunities.
Sagen Creek Tail
Experience remarkable fall foliage on the Sagehen Creek Trail northeast of Lake Tahoe, accessible via Highway 89 North.
This 5-mile moderate round-trip hike offers a family-friendly, flat path.
Sagehen Creek Trail, adorned with vibrant aspen color, follows the creek to the picturesque Stampede Reservoir, offering opportunities to spot deer, squirrels, birds, and possibly bears.
To reach the unmarked parking lot and trailhead, travel about 7 miles on Highway 89 North from I-80 toward Sierraville, turning sharply right after the Sagehen Creek bridge.
Eagle Lake
The Eagle Lake trail, an out-and-back route, leads you past Eagle Falls and is known for its scenic beauty, classified as moderate difficulty.
The hike can be tailored to a shorter distance by stopping at the falls. At around 2 miles in total and with an elevation change of approximately 450 feet, it’s recognized as one of Lake Tahoe’s finest family-friendly hikes.
In the fall, you’ll enjoy a less crowded experience than in summer; aim to start early in the day for even fewer people.
Starting from the trailhead in Emerald Bay State Park, the trail offers a gradual ascent initially, followed by a series of steep stone steps leading to Eagle Falls.
Beyond the falls, a further ascent leads to Eagle Lake, nestled by Maggie’s Peak, offering picturesque views.
Enjoy the lake’s serene beauty, and if you desire, take a refreshing swim in its chilly waters before descending.
If you intend to complete the entire hike to the lake, ensure you acquire a Desolation Wilderness permit at the trailhead.
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
More Obscure Tahoe Fall Activities
For those considering a Lake Tahoe trip in early October, you might catch the kokanee salmon run in full swing!
Observe the Kokanee Salmon Run at Taylor Creek
While the timing can vary yearly, an early October visit to Lake Tahoe offers a solid opportunity to witness the salmon spectacle.
Annually, Lake Tahoe holds a Fall Fish Festival, commemorating the kokanee salmon and other resident fish species.
Venture to the Taylor Creek Visitor Center to engage with this distinctive Lake Tahoe occurrence and delve into the intriguing narrative of the kokanee salmon.
The Story of the Kokanee Salmon
The Kokanee salmon, a landlocked variety of sockeye salmon, embark on an incredible journey in Lake Tahoe.
Born in the lake’s freshwater streams, they spend their lives here before returning to their natal streams to spawn, showcasing a remarkable natural phenomenon of adaptation and survival within the lake’s unique ecosystem.
Upon hatching in January or February, the young salmon journey to Lake Tahoe, where they grow and thrive until the moment arrives for them to return to their birthplace to spawn
Taylor Creek
Near Camp Richardson, Taylor Creek Visitor Center sits alongside Highway 89, approximately three miles northwest of South Lake Tahoe.
Traverse the boardwalk trail, affording views of bright red salmon in the creek from a bridge.
Also, explore the Rainbow Trail’s underground viewing chamber, providing an aquarium-like perspective of the creek at eye level.
These salmon serve as sustenance for predators, including bears, eagles, raccoons, and more.
Be cautious and maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife, whether it’s bears fishing in the creek or mergansers hunting for fish.
In addition to the diverse aquatic and animal life, you’ll relish the creek’s autumnal hues. The landscape is adorned with yellow, gold, orange, and red, as willows, aspen, and grasses contribute to the picturesque scene.
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center welcomes visitors from Memorial Day until the end of October, operating from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Lake Tahoe Fall Vacation: Where to Stay
There are several magnificent resorts in Lake Tahoe. Some include the Edgewood Tahoe Resort located in Stateline and The Landing Resort and Spa, a beachfront property with a full-service spa, a swimming pool, and a hot tub.
However, there are plenty of places to stay in the area at every price range.
What to See off Highway 395
Fall offers a splendid season in the Eastern Sierra, particularly when the vibrant display of autumn colors typically graces the region from the third week of September through the middle of October, although the timing varies annually.
If you’re dedicating a few days to Lake Tahoe, consider embarking on a road trip along Highway 395 for a day.
The approximately 3-hour drive from South Lake Tahoe to Bishop provides opportunities for quick stops to savor the landscapes en route.
The journey south reveals picturesque hues lining the Walker River while Conway Summit treats you to breathtaking vistas.
Continuing a bit south, Mono Lake presents a captivating pause if it’s your first visit, with its striking limestone tufa towers.
The scenic June Lake Loop and a brief journey to Convict Lake, located just south of Mammoth Lakes, are alluring detours.
After lunch in Bishop, proceed along Highway 168 West to explore the beauty of North Lake, South Lake, and Lake Sabrina.
As you return to South Lake Tahoe, relish the scenic vistas along Highway 395.
LAKE TAHOE IN THE FALL
Lake Tahoe in the Fall: FAQs
Is October a good time to go to Lake Tahoe?
Yes, October is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe—fewer crowds, crisp air, fall foliage, and lower prices make it a peaceful and scenic escape.
Is fall a good time to visit Lake Tahoe?
Yes. October is a good time to go to Lake Tahoe. It may be a little cooler, but it’s less crowded, the accommodations are moderately priced, and the autumnal colors on the trees are striking. The fall is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe.
Is Lake Tahoe pretty in fall?
Yes. October is a good time to go to Lake Tahoe. The weather is pleasant, it’s less crowded, the accommodations are moderately priced, and the autumnal colors on the trees are striking. The fall is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe.
Which part of Lake Tahoe is best in fall?
For the ultimate autumn foliage and golden hues, Hope Valley stands as the prime destination. This picturesque locale lies south of South Lake Tahoe and Meyers, offering excellent hiking trails, along with campgrounds and cozy accommodations such as Kirkwood ski resort, Sorensen’s Resort, and Hope Valley Resort
Is Lake Tahoe pretty in fall?
Yes. While Lake Tahoe is pretty all year round, it is especially beautiful in the fall as the leaves change from green to orange, yellow, and red. The air is crisp and clear, and the views are simply stunning.
What is the weather like in October?
In October, Lake Tahoe experiences mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights. You can expect daytime highs around 60°F (15°C) and nighttime lows around 34°F (1°C). The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers and versatile clothing. Rain is also possible, so bring a light waterproof jacket.
What activities are popular in September?
September is a lovely time to visit Lake Tahoe, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives to enjoy the beautiful autumnal colors. Boating and other water activities remain popular in September but keep in mind that the water may be colder than during the summer months. Take advantage of the opportunity for apple picking at nearby Apple Hill, about an hour’s drive from Lake Tahoe.
Which resorts are best for fall stays?
Many Lake Tahoe resorts are ideal for a fall stay, offering cozy accommodations and beautiful views. Choose a resort that offers easy access to outdoor activities, such as hiking or mountain biking trails. Look for off-season discounts or packages to make your stay even more enjoyable.
What events are happening in October?
For information on upcoming events in October, check the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority calendar closer to your trip. Events can include food and wine festivals, adventure races, live music, and arts and crafts shows.
How does November compare to August?
November marks the transition from fall to winter in Lake Tahoe. The weather is colder and more unpredictable, with daytime temperatures averaging around 49°F (9°C) and the possibility of snowfall increasing towards the end of the month. Some summer activities may no longer be available, and ski resorts may not yet be fully open, making November a quieter and more serene time to visit the area.
Are the fall colors beautiful around the lake?
Absolutely! Lake Tahoe is surrounded by a mix of evergreens and aspen trees, which light up in vibrant colors during the fall season. Expect to see fiery reds, radiant yellows, and shimmering oranges decorating the landscape, creating picturesque views perfect for photography and scenic drive enthusiasts.
Wrap-Up: Lake Tahoe in the Fall
Lake Tahoe in the fall showcases a breathtaking transformation as vibrant foliage blankets its surroundings, creating a captivating landscape of colors.
The crisp air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for hiking, exploring scenic drives, and witnessing the Kokanee salmon run.
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California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
