Lake Tahoe California Kids Activities, Fun Things to Do

Tahoe boasts tons of kid friendly activities including mellow bike paths, abundant fishing lakes, horseback riding tours, and unique attractions such as Virginia City in the summer and skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, and the community holiday tree lighting ceremony in winter.

Summer Activities

• Hiking
  Home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, the Tahoe area is sure to have a trip to suit your family. Angora Lakes and White Cloud Falls are two of the favorites for kids.
• Float The Truckee River
  This easy six mile float is a great way for families to cool off during Tahoe’s warm summer days.
• Swimming
  Whether you’re looking for a swimming pool, hot spring, or a refreshing dip in the lake, kids of all ages will enjoy Tahoe’s area swimming holes.
• Horse Pack Trips
  Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip with young kids or long overnight with teenagers, Tahoe area outfitters can plan an outing that’s perfect for your family.
• Fishing
  Lake Tahoe, as well as the areas other fisheries offer abundant opportunities for anglers of all ages to test their skills.
• Biking
  Lake Tahoe is home to many paved bike paths that are suitable for kids of all ages. A favorite is the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path.

Summer Attractions

• Virginia City
  “Step Back in Time” with a visit to this restored, historic ghost town.
• Heavenly Gondola
  Take a trip to the top of Heavenly with a ride in the scenic gondola. From the top, enjoy views of Mt. Tallac and the Lake.
• Squaw Valley High Camp
  Home to a year-round ice skating rink and a lagoon style pool, Squaw’s high camp is a great place to entertain kids and adults alike.

Winter Activities

• Ice Skating
  Young and old alike will enjoy Tahoe’s scenic outdoor ice rinks. Heavenly Ski Resort on the south shore and Squaw Valley on the north shore are great options.
• Skiing
  Tahoe’s eleven area resorts offer tons of opportunity for lessons and beginner runs. For the little ones that aren’t ready for the slopes, many area resorts offer child care as well.
• Snow Tubing
  Whether you choose to tube at one of the area resorts, or just find a snowy hill, kids of all ages are sure to enjoy this fun and exciting wintertime activity. Popular tubing areas include Echo Summit and Donner Summit sno parks. Additionally, Heavenly Ski Resort is home to a 65-foot vertical drop!
• Sleigh Rides
  Dashing through the snow on a Lake Tahoe winter sleigh, you'll love exploring snowy fields in the area behind a team of horses.
• Snowshoeing
  Lake Tahoe is home to hundreds of miles of snowshoeing trails, many of which are perfect for kids. Historic Camp Richardson is a great place for kids, as the trails are relatively short and flat. Royal Gorge is another good option as lessons are available.
• Sno Parks
  What kid doesn’t like getting outside and playing in the snow? Tahoe’s sixteen area sno parks provide quick access to some of the region’s most scenic areas. Whether you’re looking for sledding, snowshoeing, or snowball fights, these parks are the perfect venue.

Winter Attractions

• Community Holiday Tree Lighting
  Every year, South Lake Tahoe invites the entire community to come watch the lighting of the city's holiday tree. The event usually takes place in early December. Call 530.544.5050 for up to the minute information.
• Heavenly Gondola
  Take a trip to the top of Heavenly with a ride in the scenic gondola. From the top, enjoy views of Mt. Tallac and the Lake.