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Lake Tahoe Attractions & Bonsai Rock

ByAgnes Stabinska Updated on
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What are the best Lake Tahoe attractions? How to get to Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe – one of the most inspiring photo spots on this fabulous lake? What things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer? What things to do in Lake Tahoe in winter? Where to stay in Lake Tahoe and where to eat? Check out our article for answers to these and other questions. You will find tips and inspiration for planning an amazing Lake Tahoe vacation, as we love this spot.

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Scenic sunset over Bonsai Rock at the Lake Tahoe.
Table of Contents show

What is Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. It lies in the Sierra Nevada at 6,225 ft (1,897 m), and straddles the state line between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. Lake Tahoe is a perfect vacation spot during all four seasons.

This place’s photography potential captivated my partner Chris and me. We were intrigued by some stunning photos of Lake Tahoe, particularly of Bonsai Rock. So, we made up our minds to visit Bonsai Rock and capture some exciting photos. Additionally, we wanted to relax amidst the breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe. As always, we share our first-hand experiences, observations, tips, and photos that we have taken.

What makes Lake Tahoe special?

Lake Tahoe is the second deepest in the United States after Crater Lake in Oregon. Its depth is 1,645 feet (501 m). The lake amazes the clarity of its water and the panorama of surrounding mountains on all sides.

Tahoe Lake is about 22 mi (35 km) long and 12 mi (19 km) wide and has 72 mi (116 km) of shoreline and a surface area of 191 square miles (490 km2). So, even in crowded summer months is easy to find a nice space for rest.

Lake Tahoe attractions are perfect for families, outdoors, and adventures lover of any age. You can do water sports, hiking, or winter skiing overlooking the lake. Moreover, you will find several lakeside casino resorts on the Nevada side.

Remember to leave no trace by always packing everything you bring.

Lake Tahoe view: a wooden cottage and a wooden pier on the transparent surface of the lake in a beautiful mountain setting.

Getting to Lake Tahoe

Two-thirds of the Lake Tahoe shoreline is in California. The lake’s largest city is South Lake Tahoe on the California side, close to Nevada’s border. Famous Tahoe City, California, is located on the lake’s northwest shore. In Nevada, the most popular cities are Stateline, Round Hill Village, Skyland, and Lakeridge.

  • San Francisco to South Lake Tahoe is 188 miles and 3 hours and 25 minutes driving via Sacramento (the fastest route is via I-80 E and US-50 E/El Dorado Fwy). Check out our San Francisco Itinerary and where to stay in San Francisco.
  • From San Francisco to Tahoe City, you can go via I-80 E. It’s 199 miles and approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes of driving. But you can also go there along the coast of the lake via I-80 E and US-50 E/El Dorado Fwy. It’s about 215 miles.
  • From Las Vegas to Stateline is 443 miles via US-95 S. It’s about 7 hours and 20 minutes of driving. Or you can combine its road trip through with visiting Death Valley National Park and Yosemite National Park. Check out our Las Vegas itinerary.

Lake Tahoe Hiking Map

Regardless of which side of the lake you are stopping on, it’s worth making a loop. Go on amazing hikes. The lake’s Tahoe shores and surrounding forests are full of wonderful trails, with varying difficulty levels. The best set of maps with detailed hiking trails descriptions, tips, and photos is this Best Easy Day Hiking Guide Lake Tahoe.

There is also a new edition of Tahoe Rim Trail. It presents detailed maps and tips for the entire 165-mile trail divided into 8 sections.

hiking trails along the Lake Tahoe
island on the blue water of Lake Tahoe surronded by Tahoe Rim Trail.
Lake Tahoe transparent surface of the lake with rocks on the water.

Lake Tahoe Attractions

Things To Do in Lake Tahoe in Summer and Fall

Take Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay Cruise on M.S. Dixie II

One of the best summer Lake Tahoe attractions is an Emerald Bay Cruise on M.S. Dixie II. For sure is one of the lake’s most scenic spots. During the cruise on M.S. Dixie II, you can admire the surrounding Sierra Nevadas. Moreover, you will see Emerald Bay’s Fannete Island, the lake’s only island. If you plan a romantic surprise for your partner, consider M.S. Dixie II Sunset Dinner Cruise.


Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay Cruise on M.S. Dixie II

Rent a Boat at Lake Tahoe

Boats at Lake Tahoe

You can also rent a boat to explore the lake. Powerboat Rental from South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular Lake Tahoe Summer attractions. You can use the boat for water sports like skiing or wakeboarding. Or just sunbathing and relaxing in a peaceful cove. But if you decide to swim in Lake Tahoe water, remember that the lake is nearly 1,650 feet deep. Moreover is the alpine water so that it can be dangerously cold.

Do water sports like Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Tahoe

The lake is an ideal place to practice various water sports. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboards become very popular last years. Other popular Lake Tahoe activities include parasailing, jet ski rentals, paddle sport rentals, and fishing. There are rentals around Lake Tahoe.

Paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe

Rock in a Hammock or Rent a Bike

Agnes Stabinska, the author, is in a hammock between a trees with the view of Lake Tahoe.

When you are already a bit tired from water activities, you can always hang a hammock between the trees and rest, enjoying the space and fresh air. We have a light, a slight double hammock that we always pack in a backpack. Another idea is to rent a bike and go on a breathtaking coastal ride. Check out our article: How to Choose the Best Backpacking Hammock?

Go for a Hike at Lake Tahoe

You can walk for hours on the beaches around the lake. It is worth taking a break in one of the many bars and restaurants with excellent food and drinks during the walks. You can also go on a longer one-day hike. There are many interesting routes around the lake and surrounding forests. If you plan hiking, pack a trail map. There are many state parks around the lake, with scenic trails.

Lake Tahoe hiking

Things To Do in Lake Tahoe in Winter

Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for winter vacations. Its climates feature dry summers and chilly winters with regular snowfall. Mean annual precipitation ranges from over 55 inches (1440 mm) on the west side of the basin to about 26 inches (660 mm) near the lake on the basin’s east side.

As winter activities are also popular cross-country skiing, snowmobile riding, and snowshoeing. The winter season runs from November to the end of March.

During ski season, you can go downhill skiing with the lake view.

You can rent a piece of winter equipment for active recreation, like:

  • Snowshoe Rental
  • Cross-Country Ski Rental
  • Ski or Snowboard Rental 

Some of the most famous ski areas in Lake Tahoe include:

If you plan for a Lake Tahoe vacation, book your accommodation in advance. Due to the excellent winter conditions, Lake Tahoe is very popular.

Lake Tahoe Attractions – Bonsai Rock

What is Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe?

One of the most famous Lake Tahoe attractions is Bonsai Rock. It’s also It is one of the favorite places for photographers. Bonsai Rock is a giant boulder that sits in Lake Tahoe’s clear blue waters less than 40 feet from shore. It looks fabulous due to the small trees sprouting from the cracks in the granite. Like a Bonsai Tree, and that’s why the place’s name is Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe. It’s a magical place, especially when the sun goes down. So, add Bonsai Rock to your itinerary.

Bonsai Rock at Lake Tahoe after sunset.

Directions to Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe?

Bonsai Rock is located about 20 miles from Carson City on the Nevada side. It’s halfway between Hidden Beach and Sand Harbor on the northeast side of Lake Tahoe. From Stateline, take US-50 E and NV-28. There is a paved pullout on the southbound side of Highway 28, about 1 mile south of Sand Harbor.

How to Find Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe?

There is a short trail to Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe. A sandy, rocky path leads to the famous rock. It will take you 10-15 minutes to descend. It is not difficult. But it can be slippery after rainfall. Nearby is also a rock formation called Whale Rock. It’s not as spectacular how Bonsai Rock, but if you have time, you can enjoy the view. Whale Rock is located less than 100 feet to the south of Bonsai Rock.

Lake Tahoe Attractions - hike to bonsai rock
hike to Bonsai rock at lake tahoe.

Tips for photographing Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe

  • To take good photos of these Lake Tahoe attractions – Bonsai Rock – go there for the sunset. Preferably an hour before sunset.
  • Be sure to take a reliable Tripod (we use Sirui) and a Remote Shutter Release to take pictures of Bonsai Rock with a long time exposure and get blurry water.
  • Pack also a powerful ND filter to get a mirror lake water surface. It’s pretty chilly before sunset, so use the ND filter is a must to get no motion on the water.
  • A polarizing filter is also a must to control reflections, glare, and saturation.
  • Take good grip shoes to not slip on stones and damage your equipment or hurt yourself. In summer, waterproof trekking sandals or trekking shoes are perfect. This short trail to Bonsai Rock Lake Tahoe is steep in places.
  • Don’t forget to pack a lens cleaning cloth. Water droplets may sit on the lens.
  • The Bonsai Rock is quite close, so a standard 24-70 zoom is enough for shooting. We use Nikkor 24-70mm and Canon 24-70mm.
  • Dress up a warm sweatshirt. It gets chilly quickly in the evening.
  • It’s a black bear territory, so never leave food. Tightly pack the food you have in the car and want to take as a snack on Smell Proof Pouches. Pack all your trash and take it with you.
Bonsai Rock during sunset.
Bonsai Rock at Lake Tahoe after sunset.

Where to eat in Lake Tahoe?

Around Tahoe Lake, you will find plenty of bars and restaurants with delicious food and drink. Many places offer a great view of the lake. Below are a few of the Lake Tahoe restaurants that we can recommend.

North Lake Tahoe Restaurants:

South Lake Tahoe Restaurants:

restaurant in lake tahoe.
Agnes Stabinska, the author is sitting in a restaurant in a lake tahoe view and she is drinking a white wine.

Lake Tahoe – Where to stay?

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe depends on your budget and style of travel. You will find luxury facilities, budget hotels, cabins, and campsites by Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe accommodation prices also differ depending on the season. The great idea is to find the best cabins in Lake Tahoe, as they are cozy, have a charm, and are close to nature.

North Lake Tahoe Accomodation

On Lake Tahoe North’s Nevada side, check Incline Village accommodation.
On the California side of Lake Tahoe North, check accommodation in Tahoe City.

South Lake Tahoe Accomodation

On the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, check accommodation in Stateline, like:

  • Edgewood Tahoe Resort
  • Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe
  • MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa

On the California side of Lake Tahoe, check accommodations in South Lake Tahoe, like:

  • Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe
  • Hotel Becket Trademark Collection by Wyndham
  • Lakeland Village at Heavenly
Bonsai Rock after sunset.
lake tahoe scenic view lake with cottage and yellow leaves on tree.
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Agnes Stabinska is a writer, photographer, and co-founder of The Van Escape. She loves wildlife, landscape photography, and outdoor adventures, especially hiking, camping, and exploring U.S. national parks. Although she has traveled to many countries for almost 20 years, her favorite places are Alaska, the American Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest, which she often visits and explore with her partner, Chris. Their travel tips, itineraries, and recommendations will help you get away from it all and plan a wonderful vacation.

252 Comments

  1. I’ve been to Lake Tahoe when I lived in San Francisco for a while. It’s one of my favorite spots near the bay because of how great the scenery is and all the things you get to do. It’s a perfect place for relaxation. This brought back many good memories in this place, we hope to return one day.

    Reply

  2. Lake Tahoe has been on my list for a long time and I still want to get out there. From when I first saw it on an episode of Modern Family to this blog post here, every time I read about the lake, see photos of the lakes or movies of the lake, I just want to get here. I hope to do the hiking trails and stay somewhere away from the tourists…looking at 2022 right now…..Covid better do one soon, my feet are very itchy! 

    Reply

  3. Lake Tahoe looks so serene. I would just love to gaze and unwind here. And maybe bicycle around. But I love your photography guide and the list of things to take along–very useful. 

    Reply

  5. I was so excited to find a post about Lake Tahoe. We visit usually several times a year, and we even got married there. However, I have never heard of Bonzai Tree Rock. I think we usually navigate based on beach names so I have never really been looking at the rocks so much. Last summer we were at Sand Harbor and Chimney Rock Beach so I guess we missed everything between them.. ha ha. Next time I will look it up. 

    Reply

  6. Wow! I did not realize that there is so much to do in Lake Tahoe. My kids would definitely enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking. It’s cool that they have sports and jet ski rentals. 
    Me, on the other hand, would love to rock in a hammock and just relax. 

    Reply

  7. I first heard about Lake Tahoe from several American romantic-comedy movies, and now I understand why. It looks like a great place for a weekend getaway with family or your partner. Lake Tahoe might be a bit similar to Victoria’s Lake Entrance.

    Reply

  8. Lake Tahoe really looks amazing and this is on my bucket list since long.  I would love to rock a hammock at this beautiful place. Bonsai Rock is very photogenic and I guess it would be my favorite place too for taking photos. Good you have given all tips on photography and what essentials we need for taking perfect photos for this trip. Thanks for all tips and stay ideas.

    Reply

  9. Lake Tahoe is one of those places that I’ve always heard people talk about and loving but I’ve never looked into it myself. I appreciate your step by step guide of things to do, and the glassy water looks absolutely beautiful! Might have to make this a weekend trip when I move out West.

    Reply

  10. I visited Lake Tahoe so long ago I only have a vague memory of the dichotomy of snowy hills and a clear base with a blue lake.  I need to go back in the summer and try some of these great hikes.  And we sure would not miss a chance to get out on a kayak to see Lake Tahoe from another perspective. A trip out to see Bonsai Rock when the sun sets would be perfect.

    Reply

  11. Once again, great photography. I always think of Lake Tahoe just being for winter activities. I enjoyed seeing all the warm weather things to do such as paddle boarding and just lounging in a hammock.

    Reply

  12. I am always amazed when I see photos of Lake Tahoe. The clear water is gorgeous and not what I normally associate with a lake. I would love to spend some time hiking around the lake and would definitely want to take the time to snap some great photos of Bonsai Rock. 

    Reply

  13. I have seen pictures of Lake Tahoe before but I had no idea that it is the largest Alpine Lake in the US. I love exploring by kayak and doing a tour on Lake Tahoe must be a great adventure. Bonsai Rock is an amazing photo spot – thanks for your camera and lens tips as well.

    Reply

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