South Lake Tahoe is a winter paradise offering a wide array of activities to complement its world-famous skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re looking for high-thrill adventures or serene moments by a crackling fire, this guide covers the must-try experiences to make your winter visit truly unforgettable.
If you’re seeking an active way to take in Tahoe’s serene beauty, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are perfect options. Hope Valley Outdoors, just south of town, features over 60 miles of trails winding through meadows, valleys, and mountain paths. These tree-lined routes offer sweeping views and a chance to connect with the snowy landscape. Explore gear rental shops here.
Snowmobiling with Zephyr Cove Snowmobile Center Lake Tahoe
Feel the rush of winter with a snowmobile tour through the snow-blanketed forests of South Lake Tahoe. Zephyr Cove Snowmobile Center provides access to breathtaking panoramic views at elevations nearing 9,000 feet. For family-friendly options, Tahoe Snowmobiles and Lake Tahoe Adventures offer tours suitable for all ages.
Sometimes, the simplest joys are the most memorable. Sledding and tubing are perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. Adventure Mountain Lake Tahoe offers machine-groomed sledding and tubing hills for all ages. Other great spots include Hansen’s Resort on Ski Run Blvd and Tube Tahoe at Tahoe Paradise Golf Course in Meyers.
Complete your winter wonderland experience with an old-fashioned sleigh ride. Pulled by majestic draft horses, these decorated sleighs glide through snowy fields and pine forests, creating magical memories against Tahoe’s stunning backdrop.
After a day of adventure, there’s nothing like soaking in natural hot springs. South Shore also has one of America’s only Japanese-style cedar bathhouses – learn more about this unique and nourishing experience here. There are a few different options, but for those seeking a little luxury, we recommend the trek to David Walley’s Hot Springs, a soothing retreat where you can relax in healing waters surrounded by the Sierra Nevada’s breathtaking scenery. Consider making a stop at Nevada’s oldest thirst parlor, the Genoa Bar & Saloon. Learn more about all of our spa options here.
6. Fireside Cozy Time
South Lake Tahoe knows how to do après-ski right. Gather around a fire pit with family and friends to toast marshmallows, sip hot cocoa, and share stories of the day’s adventures. From boutique coffee shops to cozy mountain lodges, you’ll find plenty of spots to warm up and create lasting memories.
Even when it’s snowing outside, you can climb to new heights indoors. Blue Granite Climbing Gym offers year-round climbing opportunities, from beginner-friendly walls to advanced challenges. Classes, clinics, and youth programs make this a must-visit spot for climbers of all skill levels.
Channel your inner Olympian with a curling session at the Lake Tahoe Ice Arena. Lake Tahoe Epic Curling offers Sunday evening “Learn to Curl” classes, as well as private group events. It’s a unique way to bond with family or friends while trying something new on the ice.
Looking for something a little different? Head to Yosemite Axe Throwing for a fun and exciting indoor activity. Perfect for groups or solo adventurers, this thrilling pastime lets you channel your inner lumberjack while staying warm and dry.
Tipsy Putt combines mini-golf fun with a laid-back vibe and a fantastic drink menu. It’s a great indoor option for families during the day or for adults looking to unwind in the evening. Enjoy some lighthearted competition while escaping the winter chill.
Bonus: See Lake Tahoe From The Sky
Image appears courtesy: Tahoe Helicopters
There are so many ways to see the richness of Lake Tahoe, but what about from the sky? The expert pilots from Tahoe Helicopters offer you the opportunity to see iconic sights. Imagine the beauty of Emerald Bay, Fallen Leaf Lake, Desolation Wilderness, Crystal Bay or Sand Harbor from thousands of feet above. They offer all kinds of flights, including an hour-long sunset tour. Be sure to bring your camera and be the envy of all your friends.
South Lake Tahoe has something for everyone during the winter season. From adrenaline-pumping snowmobile tours to serene hot springs, your days here can be as action-packed or laid-back as you choose. So, pack your snow gear, plan your perfect winter getaway, and experience the magic of Tahoe like never before.
Lake Tahoe’s Heavenly Mountain Resort is BIG! In fact, with a vertical of over 3,500 feet spanning 4,800+ acres, it’s not surprising that it’s one of the top 10 largest resorts in North America. With so much acreage, Heavenly has something for everyone. From well-spaced trees, a multitude of easy-going cut ski runs, two canyon areas with challenging chutes (Mott and Killebrew), and one true alpine bowl (Milky Way), you’ll never say that Heavenly is a boring place. For first timers though, visiting this hulking brute of a resort can be downright frustrating. Don’t worry, we’re to help! With a little bit of planning and guidance, you’ll be able to traverse this mountain like a pro, reducing the stress and increasing the fun.
So, you’ve skied all the terrain around Sky & Canyon Express lifts and want to check out the Nevada side of the mountain. To do this, you’ll need to take the Skyline trail from the summit of the Sky chairlift. Be forewarned… keep your velocity and don’t get distracted by the lake views to your left. At over a mile in length, you need to pass the entrance to the Pinnacles and still keep going forward. You know you’ve made it once you see the Dipper chairlift, otherwise, keep that acceleration up.
Comet/Crossover (Comet Express to Stagecoach)
Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake Tahoe Dipper Comet. Photo LocalFreshies.com
Comet & Dipper offer skiers and snowboarders fantastic views of the Carson Valley below and great groomers to lay out some turns. If you make it to this side, don’t miss the Olympic Downhill trail. Stretching over 5.5 miles and covering nearly 2,000 vertical feet, it’s the perfect option for those who want to carve to their heart’s content. To get to it, you’ll need to take the Comet trail (off of the aptly named chairlift) and blast your way onto Cross-over. DO NOT slow down, otherwise, you’ll be walking or skating the entire length until you get to the top of $100 saddle. From here, you’ll schuss your way to the bottom of Olympic.
Pepi’s (Top of Stagecoach To Dipper)
From the top of the Olympic Express, take a right and proceed onto the Olympic Downhill trail. This run will get your legs burning as you wind your way all the way down to the base of Stagecoach Express. For those that want to get back to another part of the mountain, the traverse from the top of Stagecoach via Pepi’s is a challenging one. The easiest of the two options is to ski to Upper North Bowl and take Olympic Express up. From there, make a left onto Von Schmidt’s, which will let you drop back into the Dipper/Comet base area easily. The second and more direct route would be to take Pepi’s from the top of Stagecoach. This is another flat route, meaning you need to keep your speed up, or you might end up walking again.
California Trail (Top of Dipper To Sky)
Family Skiing Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake Tahoe
After so much skiing and snowboarding, your legs are done for the day. The problem is you’re still in the Nevada area. From the top of Dipper, you’ll want to head skier’s left onto the California trail. Keep up your speed until you pass the Tamarack chairlift overhead. From there, you can let yourself relax and link some turns. Take a tight left turn as you ski past the Tamarack/Gondola area. You’ll need to make sure you keep the momentum going. This long traverse can be deceptive, leading to you not reaching the bottom of Sky.
Being the largest and highest ski area in Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain can be challenging to navigate. Instead of getting frustrated, be sure that you have a plan. If you do, you’ll make your time on the mountain “Heavenly.”
We all know Lake Tahoe is famous for its skiing and snowboarding scene. But what if you want to take a break from that and do something else. Or maybe the snow hasn’t come yet? Well, of course, you can still ski on man-made snow and the experience is great. However, there are a ton of things to do in Tahoe during the winter months that don’t need getting on a chairlift.
1. Lake Tahoe Cruise
Tahoe’s blue is best experienced from a boat. Book one of the Tahoe cruises and immerse yourself in the crisp mountain air and the blue water. Seeing the shores from a boat gives you a completely different experience. Your experience will be unique, whether you decide to do a morning cruise or a sunset cruise.
Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Tahoe aboard the M.S. Dixie II.
Some of the most memorable (or maybe not-so-easy-to-remember but definitely fun!) times are had on board a Lake Tahoe boat tour. Check out the M.S. Dixie II, the Tahoe Bleu Wave or the Spirit of Tahoe. Enjoy great food, great drinks and even better people aboard one of these South Lake Tahoe boat tours.
2. Hit the Spa
Pampering the body as well as the soul is almost a rule when it comes to visiting Lake Tahoe. Pick one of the many spa options Lake Tahoe offers and indulge yourself. Besides getting a massage or a facial, pick some goodies from the spa for yourself or for gifts for your loved ones for the holidays.
The Spa at the Landing Tahoe
3. Night Out
When you feel like you need some more action in your life, plan on an evening out. In December, the Heavenly Village is having full three weeks events culminating with a New Year’s concert. So, pack something warm in your bag and head out for a fun evening.
If you missed the party at the Heavenly Village, don’t worry. There’s always something to do in Lake Tahoe in the evening. Check out the casinos if you are into gambling, or go see music. Comedians, musicians, and excitement await you.
Peek Nightclub – Harrahs Lake Tahoe
5. Ice Skating or Sledding
So what if the snow isn’t perfect right now? The entire family can have a blast ice skating or sledding in Lake Tahoe.
Ice skating in the Heavenly Village | Photo by Jamie Kingham
6. Hiking
Tahoe is always a great place to go hiking or snowshoeing. A few popular hikes are in Lake Tahoe that allow for amazing photography. Whether your spirit animal is more Instagram influencer than John Muir, you’ll find your favorite Lake Tahoe hiking trails on the south shore.
Sunrise from Emerald Bay
7. Take the dog to the beach
South Lake Tahoe is a dog-friendly heaven. Why not bring the pooch with you to experience the lake. From gourmet pet stores to dog-friendly hikes and beaches, there’s plenty to explore. Check out this blog post for more details.
8. Just enjoy the Lake
Sit on the beach or at a lakefront restaurant and take it all in. Whether you are into meditation or not, the lake will calm your senses and relieve the stress. Then, you can go home refreshed and ready to enjoy the holidays.
Fire pit at Jimmy’s Restaurant at the Landing Resort Lake Tahoe
The magic and beauty of South Lake Tahoe are on full display in January. Whether you are watching waves softly crash onto a snowy shoreline, prepping for a thrilling snowmobile adventure, or finding comfort at a local coffee shop, January here is a paradise for anyone looking for a snowy piece of heaven. See a few of our recommendations below for what to do this January to help you make the most of this month.
The Mountains Are Calling!
Skier at Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake tahoe
There is no surprise that this is an amazing ski town, so… “when in Tahoe”! Find time to explore our mountains, and you’ll surely find a few perfect runs to alternate from throughout the day. Take advantage of the season and our terrain, and slide smoothly into ski season!
Friends eating around a fire at South of North Brewing Company. Photo: Paje Victoria
Living at such a high altitude has its perks: Up here, our bodies work harder to regulate ourselves in a place with less oxygen, which makes it crucial that WE EAT A LOT! In these colder months, doing so comfortably is important if you go out for food. With options like South of North, The Hangar, Sprouts Cafe, and Jimmy’s, dining out can remain comfortable and stylish all year round.
No visit is truly complete without an unforgettable sunset. From whichever part of the shore you get to, slow down and watch the mind-bending, timeless, therapeutic, and awesome landscape surrounding us. If you’re unsure where to find a good spot to see the sunset, here are some suggestions.
Snowshoes are in style
Couple snowshoeing at sunrise on Kiva beach. Photo: Rachid Dahnoun
Hiking is a year-round hobby in South Lake Tahoe, as long as you adjust your footwear for snow. Snowshoeing is a must-try if you’ve never done it, and if you have, it’s probably already on your Winter to-do list. Find the right rentals at several places in town, such as Tahoe Sports LTD or Powder House.
Stellar Stargazing
Night sky shot from Emerald Bay. Photo: Rachid Dahnoun
Make sure to take the opportunity to go outside on a clear night and watch the stars. Part of being in such a wild place is an amazing night sky. You won’t have to drive far or go camping to enjoy a great view of outer space and the sense of awe that comes with it.
South Lake Tahoe is famous for its black bears, but there are plenty of other species in the area that you can might see. Some are certainly more common than others, like the coyote, but there are a variety of cool creatures to keep an eye out for, like mule deer, bobcats, porcupines, and bald eagles, to name a few. Discover what other animals you might see here.
Events and Entertainment at Lake Tahoe
Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey vs Allen Americans at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, January 2-4, 2026 and vs Utah Grizzlies, January 9-11, 2026.
Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey at the Tahoe Blue Event Center
Saturday, January 17, 2026, 7:30 pm, Steve-O is bringing his Crash and Burn Tour to Bally’s Lake Tahoe.
Extreme Midget Wrestling is back in Lake Tahoe by popular demand! Join us for the toughest little show in Lake Tahoe on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Bally’s Lake Tahoe Casino and Resort
Saturday, January 31, 2026, 8:00 pm, Yachty By Nature Live in the Bally’s Lake Tahoe Showroom
