With its fun outdoor extravaganzas, stays in cozy cabins and emerald green lake, a Tahoe vacation is a sure hit. But knowing what plans to make that will be just as popular among the little ones as the adults might seem tricky — it doesn’t have to be, though. We’ve found the best family-friendly activities in the Tahoe region so you don’t have to.
Photo: Courtesy of Snowshoe Tahoe on Facebook
Moonlight Snowshoe Tour
Page Meadows Parking
Whether trying to accommodate for kiddos or because you’d prefer a smaller hike, this snowshoeing tour is perfect for just that. It’s a peaceful loop hike that’ll give you the chance to try snowshoeing out without too much commitment but with plenty of vastly stunning views.
Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
Zephyr Cove Marina
While technically in Nevada, don’t be too misled or you’ll miss out on this opportunity to experience Emerald Bay. It’s on a paddle wheeler, and you’ll learn about the bay through shared fun facts and tidbits. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe
Tahoe Helicopters
This tour experience knows that Tahoe gets busy, so why sightsee on land when you can sightsee from the air? Along the route are visuals of Leaf Lake, Pope Beach and more, and the pilot will provide commentary throughout.
North Shore Kayak or Paddleboard Tour at Lake Tahoe
7010 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe Vista
With your choice of a kayak or a paddleboard, your guide will give a quick introductory lesson to both before taking you on the water. They’ll share interesting facts and information about the history, ecology and more of the Lake Tahoe area. And of course, the views will not disappoint.
Tahoe Snowmobiling Tours
3071 US-50, South Lake Tahoe
This tour will give you the opportunity to explore otherwise difficult to see parts of the Tahoe area. There will be a brief safety lesson before you’ll have the chance to drive yourself and follow the tour guide, climbing as high as 10,000 feet.
Ultimate Kids Day on Lake Tahoe
1900 Jameson Beach Rd, South Lake Tahoe
This one’s for the kids and is a learning opportunity and day full of fun all wrapped up in one. The Captain will teach the kids about boat safety and even a few simple boating skills, before providing a tour of some spots on a checklist that’s passed out. They’ll even have the chance to swim in the lake, accompanied by pool toys and noodles.
Wild West Day Trip to Virginia City from Tahoe with Train Ride
Pickup from select hotels
Sightseeing is made extra fun with this train ride excursion that will take you across state lines into Nevada City. The drive itself will be full of stunning views of course, but as an all day endeavor, there will be plenty of cool, historical stops such as museums, an opera house, the Virginia City Visitor Center and many others.
Guided Fly Fishing on Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Reno
Hirschdale Rd, Truckee
Beginners and experts alike will enjoy this fly fishing experience on the Truckee River that flows out of Lake Tahoe and is known for its fishing. The gear is provided, but be sure to come prepared with your own fishing license.
