Nevada sits in the western continental United States and is often overlooked, as visitors flock to Las Vegas for its nightlife and gambling scene. However, did you know that there is so much more to this state than what meets the eye? We recently spent 3 days in northern Nevada on the spectacular Lake Tahoe loop. Discovering old western towns, mountain tops and of course the jewel of the Sierra Nevada, the shimmering Lake Tahoe.
Keep reading this guide if you want to find out more about one of the most underrated corners of the USA! We are going to take you on a journey through cowboy towns, incredible viewpoints and secluded lakefront beaches.
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Furthermore, this post is written in collaboration with Travel Nevada who hosted us during our stay & organised many of the awesome activities we are going to share below. Therefore, a huge thank you goes out to them.
The best time of year to visit Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Lake Tahoe is blessed with all four seasons. During the summer months you’ll experience warm days, with highs of 26-32 degrees Celsius during the day, the perfect time to take full advantage of the lake. Whereas in the winter you have the opportunity to enjoy the snow in the mountains, with ski fields operating in the area too. In the shoulder seasons (Spring and Autumn) you will have the benefit of less crowds and the chance to experience Lake Tahoe’s fall colours or sprouting wildflower meadows. There really is something for everyone, no matter when you visit!
We chose to visit Nevada in the early summer (June) and had perfect weather for the entire trip. There was even some snow on the mountain peaks, which only added to the charm of this area. Be aware that if you do visit Lake Tahoe in the winter, you must come prepared and rent a vehicle that is equipped for the cold conditions.
How to reach Lake Tahoe, Nevada
The easiest way to reach Lake Tahoe is by flying into Reno – Lake Tahoe International Airport. Reno is the region’s main city, located just north of Lake Tahoe. From here you will be able to rent a car to hit the road with. We recommend that you rent directly from the airport for both pick up and drop off. This will make getting around much easier for when you land and leave.
At Reno – Tahoe Airport there are plenty of rental car companies, such as: Avis, Enterprise, Budget and Hertz. You can compare car rental prices prior to your trip by clicking here.
Lake Tahoe Loop Route
Day 1: Reno – Virginia City – Carson City
Reno is known as the ‘biggest little city in the world’ due to its blend of small-town charm and urban vibe. It is the largest city in the Lake Tahoe area. Yet it is still close to the mountains and all the outdoor activities this guide will discuss. This makes Reno an ideal base for a trip to Nevada’s Lake Tahoe.
Reno Riverwalk District
The most beautiful part of Reno has to be the Riverwalk District. This 3.5 mile stretch of trail follows the Truckee River through the city and is lined by cute cafes. It is the perfect place to start your morning. We recommend that you pop into Hub Coffee Roasters for breakfast and grab the brekkie burritos!
As you walk alongside the river you will also pass beautiful nature spots with views of the distant snow-capped mountains. We even saw a few people head into the water for a swim, if the weather is good then why not take a dip.
Where to stay
Without a doubt the best place to stay in Reno is The Jesse Hotel & Bar. This boutique hotel offers guests cosy yet stylish rooms only a stone’s throw away from the beating heart of this city. Not only do they have gorgeous rooms, but there is an onsite Mediterranean restaurant. They serve the most delicious Greek and Turkish dishes, that taste just like they would in their respective countries. The food we had at the Jesse, was the best we had on the whole Nevada trip, that’s for sure!
Drive towards Virginia City
Our time in Reno is short, but there is so much more waiting for you beyond the city. As you leave Reno and head towards Virginia City, you will pass through the Virginia City Highlands. This stretch of road takes you into the mountains and this is where you will begin to see the true beauty of Northern Nevada.
Make sure you stop at Geiger Lookout. This is a viewpoint with breath taking views out onto the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. From here you will be able to clearly see the contrast between desert and alpine landscape, which makes the Lake Tahoe region so unique.
Virginia City is truly a trip to America’s old west, once an iconic mining town in the highlands. Today Virginia City shows off its heritage in true wild western style. The main street is lined by Saloon’s, western clothing stores and antique shops; this is the place to grab a cowboy hat and boots. You will certainly fit right in!
We recommend that you take a walk down the main road. Although Virginia City is not very big at all, it may take you a while to reach the edge of town, as no doubt your curiosity will pull you into each and every store to see what’s happening inside.
For a bite to eat head into the Delta Saloon, they serve up all American dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. You may even get lucky and catch a band playing on stage. If not, you can always head over the road to the Bucket of Blood Saloon, which has been a Virginia City institution since 1876. They often have artists perform in the Saloon, we managed to catch a country band whilst we were there.
Carson City, Nevada
If you are looking for an affordable place to stay on the loop, then Carson City is the ideal place. There is a range of hotels for all budgets, particularly on the lower end, such as the Holiday Inn Express. Other than operating as an affordable base, Carson City doesn’t have much else going on, other than the fact that it is around 20 minutes away from Lake Tahoe.
However, there is a lovely sunset spot even closer to Carson City called Washoe Lake State Park. There are a couple of car parks and rest stops around the perimeter on this small lake, which offer beautiful views across the mountains, especially at sunset. We definitely recommend that you check this place out whilst you’re in the area!
Day 2: Genoa – Lake Tahoe
On day two you’re going to head out to the small rural town of Genoa, approximately a 20-minute drive away from Carson City and on the way to Lake Tahoe. Famously Genoa is Nevada’s oldest town, full of all American country charm. With mountain views and flags adorning the buildings that line the only street that passes through.
Genoa Courthouse Museum
This museum dives into Nevada’s history including Native American heritage, the Emigrant trail and the challenging journeys of pioneers through Nevada, as well as the Pony Express which was a famous mail service that connected the nation. Finally, there are exhibits dedicated to Snowshoe Thompson and his ski-based feats across the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The building itself in which the museum is housed, has historical value to the town. Serving as the 1865 Douglas County Courthouse, it is a significant structure in Genoa’s history. This is the perfect morning activity to become acquainted with Nevada’s past.
The museum is open seasonally from April – October and opening hours are 11am -3pm. Admission fee is $5 per adult and $2 per child. You can find more information here.
Genoa Bar and Saloon
Just down the road from the museum, you will find Nevada’s oldest saloon, The Genoa Bar and Saloon. It has been a much-loved establishment here in Genoa since 1853, making it 170 years old, which for the US is pretty ancient. The saloon even predates Nevada becoming an official state by 11 years and has been serving as a historic “thirst parlour” since the early days of the American West.
Quite amazingly the saloon even survived prohibition, posing as a soda fountain whilst still serving alcohol. It is the beating heart of the Genoa community and well worth a visit on your way through Nevada’s Carson Valley. Swing by here for a delicious lunch, served up by the food truck that sits outside. Whilst you wash it all down in the garden, alongside a refreshing beer. You’ll leave feeling like a true cowboy!
Secret Harbor – Lake Tahoe
After lunch its finally time to head towards the glistening shores of Lake Tahoe. We highly recommend that you drive towards Secret Harbor Parking. Once you are parked up here, take path at the trailhead and follow it down towards the lake. It should take roughly 10 minutes to reach the lake. Along the shore you should find multiple secluded coves to enjoy an afternoon. We stopped at this cove, which had the best view onto the snowcapped mountains, and was perfect for taking a swim in the peaceful surroundings.
Other notable beaches in the area to check out are Whale Beach, Secret Cove and Chimney Beach.
South Lake Tahoe, Nevada
When you’re ready to grab a bite to eat, you could head to the nearby Zephyr Cove in the South Lake Tahoe area. There are a handful of restaurants to choose from here, as well as some more beaches and hiking trails. Moreover, if you fancy a sunset cruise on the lake you could hop on the MS Dixie II for a scenic boat ride on the lake and out to Emerald Bay. The perfect way to watch the sunset on the lake, you can find booking information here.
Day 3: North Lake Tahoe, Nevada
On your final day in Nevada, it’s time to explore the Northern shores of Lake Tahoe. This is going to be an adventure packed day, so you will want an early start in order to seize the day.
Monkey Rock Hike
This is a must do hike! It’s only a short one (45 mins one way), but the views from the Monkey Rock viewpoint are breath taking and well worth it. The trailhead is located behind the Tunnel Creek Cafe, which is where you can also park. Once you are on the trail, it’ll take you on an uphill journey through beautiful pine forest to the viewpoint. Be aware that in some sections the hike does become fairly steep, but we’d say it’s nothing more than a moderate hike.
As you approach the viewpoint, you’ll be able to identify that you are in the right place by the Monkey shaped rock that sits on the cliff edge. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunrise over Lake Tahoe, perhaps even take some breakfast up there too.
If you’d prefer to have breakfast indoors, then Tunnel Creek Cafe serves delicious food all day and is very fairly priced for the Lake Tahoe area. We had the best grilled cheese!
Sand Harbor Nevada State Park
This state park is located along the shores of Northern Lake Tahoe; it has a stunning beach perfect for swimming and water sports. This is the place to rent a paddle board or kayak and head out onto the water, for an explore of the lake. We recommend that you rent your boards or kayaks from Clearly Tahoe, located at Sand Harbor State Park.
Note that if you are visiting on a weekend or during the summer months, then you should consider booking your parking space at Sand Harbor for before 10:30am. After 10:30am the car park operates on a first come, first served basis. During busy periods the car park will fill up quickly, so it is best to come prepared, as the only other car park in the area is around a 1 hour walk away.
You can find more details about booking your parking space here.
Hidden Beach
Not too far from Sand Harbor is another picturesque spot for a swim before leaving Lake Tahoe. Hidden Beach is exactly as the name describes, pretty well hidden. As you follow the East Shore Trail from parking at Tunnel Creek Cafe, you will eventually come across an underpass, and right next to the entrance of this underpass is the trailhead down towards Hidden Beach.
At the beach there is a narrow strip of sand to sunbathe on, with the water lapping at your toes, or there are accessible rocks to perch yourself on. We loved this spot, as you can jump off the rocks into the refreshing water below. Plus, the views are pretty spectacular!
Drive back to Reno
To end your loop, head back to Reno by taking the Mt Rose Highway, this will give you incredible roadside viewpoints and take you past the summit of Mt Rose, that sits at 3,285m above sea level. You may even get snow up there, even during the summer months.
Once you arrive back in Reno, don’t forget to stay at the lovely Jesse Hotel & Bar again, to end your time in Nevada.
Final thoughts on the Lake Tahoe Loop, Nevada
A road trip on Nevada’s Lake Tahoe Loop was one of our favourite road trips to date. This is a road trip for nature and country lovers and those who enjoy a dose of adventure travel. Lake Tahoe is known as one of the clearest lakes in the world and it truly takes visiting to appreciate just how stunningly clear it is. There are endless adventures to be had here in all seasons, which is what makes Lake Tahoe so versatile and unique.
We hope this guide has given you an ideal itinerary for a short stay in this corner of the US. Please leave any questions you may have below and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and inspiration.
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