Spring in South Lake Tahoe: Our Top 10 Things to Do This Time of Year
Discover the best spring activities in South Lake Tahoe, from skiing in the morning and paddleboarding in the afternoon to chasing waterfalls, biking scenic lakefront trails, and soaking in hot springs. With fewer crowds, snow-capped peaks, and longer sunsets, spring is one of the most magical times to experience Lake Tahoe.
10 Best Spring Activities in South Lake Tahoe
Spring in Tahoe is one of the Sierra’s best-kept secrets. As winter crowds fade and the snow begins to melt, the region transforms into a playground where you can ski in the morning, hike to waterfalls in the afternoon, and watch colorful sunsets over the lake in the evening.
With fewer visitors, crisp alpine air, and dramatic scenery—from snow-capped peaks to rushing creeks—spring is one of the most magical times to experience Lake Tahoe.
Here are some of our favorite spring activities in South Lake Tahoe.
The Ultimate Tahoe Dual Sport Day
Spring is the only time of year you can ski in the morning and paddleboard in the afternoon, making it the ultimate Tahoe reset.
Start your day carving soft spring snow at Heavenly Mountain Resort or Kirkwood Mountain Resort. By the afternoon, swap ski boots for sandals and head to the lake for calm, glassy water—often before summer boat traffic returns.
With lighter crowds and crisp mountain air, it’s a uniquely Tahoe experience.
Rent skis from Rippin Willies Ski & Snowboard Shop or Sports LTD Ski & Bike Shop, and pick up paddleboards from SUP Tahoe or Clearly Tahoe, depending on where you’re staying.
Take a Scenic Drive Toward Carson Pass + Soak at Grover Hot Springs
One of the most beautiful spring drives in the Sierra is along Highway 88 toward Carson Pass. Snow still blankets the peaks while creeks run full from the spring melt.
Continue on to Grover Hot Springs State Park for a relaxing soak surrounded by mountain views—especially rewarding after a long Tahoe winter.
Pro Tip: Stop in Markleeville for a meal at Cutthroat Brewing Company or Stonefly on your way back.
Go Chase Some Waterfalls
As the Sierra snowpack retreats, waterfalls around Tahoe come alive in spring.
One of the most dramatic is Eagle Falls near Emerald Bay State Park. The powerful spring runoff makes this waterfall especially impressive.
If you’re up for a longer hike, explore Van Sickle Bi-State Park. The main trail leads to a seasonal waterfall and offers sweeping views of Lake Tahoe along the way.
Bike the East Shore Trail
For a fresh change of scenery, head to Incline Village and ride the paved Lake Tahoe East Shore Trail toward Sand Harbor.
The path hugs the shoreline and often melts out early in spring, making it a great ride this time of year. Take your time and stop at the scenic overlooks—it’s more about the views than the mileage.
Afterward, grab lunch at Tunnel Creek Cafe, a favorite local post-ride spot.
Go Fishing
Spring is prime fishing season in Lake Tahoe, with rainbow trout, brown trout, and Mackinaw (lake trout) becoming more active in the warming waters.
Cast from shore at spots like Cave Rock, Regan Beach, or near the inlet of the Upper Truckee River.
For a bigger adventure, book a charter with Tahoe Sport Fishing for a chance at trophy lake trout. Before heading out, stock up on gear and local tips at Tahoe Fly Fishing Outfitters.
Visit Fallen Leaf Lake in the Off-Season
Just minutes from town, Fallen Leaf Lake feels especially peaceful in spring.
With fewer visitors and snow still lingering on the surrounding peaks, it’s the perfect place for a quiet shoreline walk, scenic photos, or a relaxed picnic before the busy summer season arrives.
Hike the Lam Watah Nature Trail
The Lam Watah Nature Trail near Nevada Beach is often one of the first trails to melt out each year.
This gentle trail winds through aspens and open forest with occasional lake views, making it ideal for a relaxed spring hike or family-friendly stroll. The mostly flat terrain is also great for kids on bikes.
Take a Clear Kayak Tour to Bonsai Rock
For a uniquely Tahoe experience, paddle out with Clearly Tahoe on a guided clear kayak tour to Bonsai Rock.
Glide across turquoise water with 360-degree alpine views and visibility up to 75 feet below your transparent kayak. The 1.5-hour tour combines incredible scenery with insight into Lake Tahoe’s ecology and preservation efforts.
Catch a Longer Spring Sunset
With daylight stretching later into the evening, spring sunsets in Tahoe are worth lingering for.
Bring a blanket and head to
Snow-dusted peaks and pastel skies make spring evenings feel especially magical.
Plan Your Spring Getaway to Lake Tahoe
Spring is one of the most underrated times to visit Lake Tahoe. With fewer crowds, dramatic mountain scenery, and the rare chance to enjoy both winter and summer-style activities in the same day, it’s the perfect season for a Tahoe getaway.
Whether you’re skiing at Heavenly Mountain Resort, hiking to waterfalls near Emerald Bay State Park, or watching sunset along the shoreline, spring offers a quieter and more relaxed way to experience the lake.
If you’re planning a trip, staying in a comfortable vacation rental makes it easy to explore everything the area has to offer. Browse our South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals at Modern Mountain Vacations and start planning your spring escape to the Sierra.
