While skiing and snowboarding take center stage when the snow starts to fall, there are still plenty of other exhilarating ways to enjoy time in the outdoors this winter. From the serene crunch of snowshoes underfoot to the rhythmic glide of cross-country skis along our miles of groomed trails to gliding across the ice with the whole family, Tahoe offers exciting options beyond our ski resort’s slopes. It’s time to book your visit to enjoy Tahoe’s winter wonderland!

Look to the Lake for Winter Fun

Photo: Borges Sleigh Rides at Sand Harbor State Park

While there are lots of great trails to snowshoe, one of our favorite spots is on the snowy beaches of Lake Tahoe. From Commons Beach in Tahoe City to Sand Harbor State Park in Incline Village, the lake makes a gorgeous backdrop for any snowy stroll. Or, head off on the trails for a snowshoe to Spooner Lake on their maintained trails in Spooner Meadow and up to Marlette Lake. This area is great for beginners, so feel free to bring the whole family. Or, if you’d like to let someone else make the plans, book a guided snowshoe tour (including sunset and full moon tours) with Tahoe Adventure Company.

Glide Through Nature

Photo: Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

Next up on our list is Nordic Skiing. With Cross Country ski centers sprinkled throughout North Lake Tahoe, you won’t have to travel far to get out on the snow. From Tahoe XC to Royal Gorge to the trails around Northstar and through the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, you’ll have plenty of groomed trails to choose from with sweeping winter vistas along the way. Whether you’re a beginner picking up a new sport or an expert wanting to experience Tahoe’s finest trails, you’ll love Tahoe’s pristine winter beauty and miles of trails.

Ice Skating with the Whole Family

Photo: Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

For some family-friendly winter fun, make your way to one of Tahoe’s ice skating rinks. Whether you’re taking the little ones for their first time or your family are all seasoned skaters, Tahoe’s outdoor rinks offer the perfect snow-covered backdrop. Take a spin at the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park’s ice rink, where you can find skate rentals for the whole family, and afterwards head inside to warm up and grab a bite at Café Zenon. Over in the Village at Northstar, their 9,000 square foot ice rink might just be our favorite. With ice skating in the heart of the village surrounded by firepits where you can enjoy your favorite après ski beverage, this might just be the perfect spot to end a winter’s day. 

Looking for an Indoor Adventure

Maybe “the weather outside is frightful” and you’re looking for something to do inside? The Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema is the perfect spot. With gourmet popcorn along with beer and wine available for purchase, you’ll be sure to enjoy your movie showing of the newest ski film or Hollywood blockbuster.