North Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the sparkling gem of the Sierra. It draws visitors from around the world who come to bask in its grand beauty, to explore its varied shoreline, and enjoy its diverse recreation opportunities.

The north shores of Lake Tahoe are part of Placer County on the California side and Washoe and Carson City counties on the Nevada side. The northern shores stretch from Tahoma and Homewood on the west side to well south of San Harbor on the east shore. Popular destinations include Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Crystal Bay, and Incline Village.

The north shore of Lake Tahoe is known as a slightly less developed and less expensive region of the lake than South Lake Tahoe, although Incline Village rivals any development around the Tahoe Basin. Recreation abounds, from water skiing and lounging on the beach to lively casinos and a robust night-life.

Lake Tahoe is one of the premier boating lakes in California. Classic wooden boats are popular around the lake. Water skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing and other similar water sports are among the main attractions during the summer. Wind can create danger on the lake for those riding in small boats.

Lake Tahoe has a host of great marinas along its shores. Most of them offer overnight slips, marine services, fuel, and other amenities. Unlike most other California lakes, the marinas use boat hoists or similar methods to launch boats rather than ramps. Marinas focus on dry storage, boat maintenance, and restoration while providing the basic needs of boaters. Boat rentals are usually handled by separate companies around the lake.

Lake Tahoe fishing is done mainly from boats, although there are some good shore fishing spots scattered around the lake. Boat anglers troll for trout and kokanee salmon. The huge Mackinaw trout are a favorite of fishermen looking for trophy fish. Lunker browns are found in the lake, too, but its takes an experienced angler to land them. Rainbow trout and some brook trout also provide good sport fishing. Cutthroat trout have disappeared from the lake, gobbled up by the Mackinaws.

Reservations can be made for good campsites around the lake. On the west shore are several campgrounds within walking distance of the shore. Other campsites can be found along the Truckee River to the north and over on the shoulder of Mt. Rose in Nevada. RV Resorts are limited. Picnic areas and public beaches abound around the lake.

Lake Tahoe has a wide selection of resorts and lodges, ranging from moderately priced establishments to plush retreats. Some offer extensive amenities like swimming pools, spas, and tennis courts, while others keep prices low with simple cabins or motel style rooms. Around the California-Nevada border are several casino hotels which have reasonably priced rooms.

Nothing can match Lake Tahoe. Its panoramic grandeur is a dazzling sight from every shore. Snow-capped peaks rise around the basin, thick pine and cedar forests blanket the lower slopes and shorelines. Lake Tahoe's amazingly clear water has been preserved over the years through careful environmental regulations.

A string of communities line the shores of Lake Tahoe. Some of them like Tahoma, Homewood, and Carnelian Bay retain the quiet charm of earlier years, while others are bustling with activity. In the summer Tahoe City, Kings Beach, and Incline Village are among the most popular destinations around the lake. They offer everything you could need in the way of services, shopping, and entertainment.

North Lake Tahoe Transportation

Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit
Tahoma - Incline Village
Truckee - Tahoe City
Truckee - Crystal Bay

North Lake Tahoe Express
Reno - Incline Village
Reno - Palisades Tahoe - Alpine - Homewood
Reno - Truckee - Northstar