Lake Tahoe 3 -Day Getaway

Lake Tahoe 3 -Day Getaway

Two hours from Sacramento, CA is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the world - Lake Tahoe. My family LOVES going to Lake Tahoe for long weekends and Summer Getaways to relax, rejuvenate, spend time together, and make memories. Here is a 3-day guide of my favorite places in Lake Tahoe.
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Day 1

Upon Arriving at South Lake Tahoe head to Marriott's Timber Lodge to Check in.  The Marriott is centrally located to Heavenly Village where there are plenty of shops and ample dining options.  From this resort, you will have access to multiple trails, beaches, and entertainment.  

Marriott's Timber Lodge
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
A wonderful resort that lies in the heart of Heavenly Village. Here there is access to shops, restaurants, casinos, and is only a short drive to lake beaches, and trails.
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Once you are settled, spend the rest of the day exploring Heavenly Village.  Take a ride up the Gondola where you can gold pan, snow tube (in the winter months), hike, rock climb, and so much more. When you're finished at the top of the mountain, come back down into the village to explore some unique shops and tasty food.

Heavenly Mountain Resort
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Great atmosphere! Lots of shops, dining options, and entertainment. Be sure to check out the Gondola Ride!
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Once you're finished exploring the village stop at Base Camp Pizza for the most AMAZING pizza dinner!  After dinner, fire pits will light up the night around the village so grab a spot and keep warm, or head across the state line and explore the Casinos.  However, get a good night's sleep because tomorrow will be a packed day! 

Base Camp Pizza Co.
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
My family and I can't wait to go to Tahoe for this Pizza! It is an absolute MUST!
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Day 2

Get up bright and early because today will be a day full of exploring and hikes.  Before heading out, stop by Raley's to stock up on water, drinks and snacks.  Once you're ready, head to Vikingsholm Trail Head.  This trail is home to Tahoe's castle and takes you into the heart of Emerald Bay.  Vikingsholm was once a vacation home until 1945.  In the summer, you can tour the castle and get a glimpse at some of the artifacts.  This is a more difficult hike as there is a steep incline on the way back, however, children can do it (mine were 4 and 7) but it may be difficult for those with hip, knee problems.    

Vikingsholm Trail (Top)
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Although a steep hike, it is not undoable for children (mine were 4 and 7 when we did this hike). If anyone in your party has trouble walking (knee or hip issues) I would recommend by passing this hike.
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Once you have caught your breath from making your way back up the hill and to your car, head to Cascade Falls Trailhead.  Be sure to bring your snacks as when you get to the falls large boulders will be there to sit and enjoy your snack as you're taking in the breathtaking views.

Cascade Falls Trail
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
A lovely hike of both water falls and Lake Tahoe. If captured correctly, you can get a picture with both in one shot.
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After your hike, head over to Camp Richardson's Beacon Bar & Grill, home of the legendary Rum Runners!  Grab a drink and head out to the patio to take in some views while you order lunch.  After lunch, be sure to grab some ice cream before heading on your next hike.

Beacon Bar & Grill
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Beautiful views and home of the Legendary Rum Runner!
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After lunch, across the street from Camp Richardson is Fallen Leaf Lake.  Take the opportunity to explore this lake as it is a peaceful more calm lake and is perfect for the kids to try kayaking or jumping in the water.  There is a trail around the hike that you can loop around or hike in and out (we hiked around for about a mile and half and then back to our car).

Fallen Leaf Lake
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Clear blue water! A great place to hike, jump in the lake, take in the views, and kayak. Waters are calmer than Lake Tahoe which makes it more comfortable for children to engage in water activities.
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By this time, you'll be ready to head back to the hotel to freshen up and get ready for dinner.  In the village again, is FiRE and iCE Restaurant  This is fun for the whole family as you choose what goes on the grill to be made to order in front of you! 

FiRE + iCE Tahoe
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
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Day 3

Today, you will be exploring a different side of the lake.  Again, stop at Raley's to stock up on drinks, snacks, and maybe even a picnic lunch. You will be heading to Sand Harbor today- iconic photographs have been taken here as the water is clear enough to see right through the lake.  Once you arrive, find the nature walk boardwalk and explore the harbor.  If going in the Summer, you will want to arrive as early as possible to walk and claim your spot on the beach to have a lake day.  There is a restaurant on site as well in case you were not able to grab lunch.  

Sand Harbor Beach
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
An absolutely stunning view of the lake!
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After your lake day, head back to the hotel to freshen up for either a Dinner Cruise or a Sunset Cruise.  Both cruises will take you to Emerald Bay and the sunset on the lake is a breathtaking site.  Two options for your cruise are listed below:

Tahoe Cruises
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Wonderful sunset cruise that includes drinks.
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Lake Tahoe Cruises / MS Dixie II
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
An option for a sunset dinner cruise on Lake Tahoe.
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Additional Activities

There are so many activities that you can encounter while at Lake Tahoe.  Some other options to consider would be:

1. Taking a drive around the whole lake.  If you choose this, here are a couple more recommendations of restaurants for a beverage or lunch/dinner.

Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Wonderful restaurant with amazing views, great food, delicious drinks, and a lovely atmosphere.
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Gar Woods Grill & Pier
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2.  In the winter, snow activities are a favorite pastime.  Here is an option for additional Snow fun! 

Hansen's Snow Tube & Saucer Hill
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Fun place for the family to partake in snow activities.
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3.  While at Lake Tahoe, especially in the Summer, you'll want to spend some time in the water.  There are several places where you can rent boats, jet skis, party boats, kayaks, paddle boards, etc.  The best way to see the lake is to be on the lake!  Here are some recommendations of places to rent water equipment: 

Camp Richardson Marina
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
For easy access to Emerald Bay with your water activity rentals. Party boats as well as wave runners/ jet skis are available to rent. Has a wonderful restaurant and beach for when you are done with your water activity.
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Ski Run Marina
@chasityraybuck-bonilla
Provides rental equipment for all your water activity needs. Super friendly and reasonable rates.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am a full-time working mom of 3 boys with a side gig as a Travel Agent. We LOVE to travel and sharing our experiences with others brings us great joy. We believe that traveling is the best way to make memories that last a lifetime! I know what it's like to travel with children, by myself, across the country, as well as a family. In addition, my husband and I know how important it is to make time for each other - even as a weekend getaway. Planning a girls' weekend (mom's getaway) is also in my wheelhouse;)!
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