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Tahoe Vista, California

The Tahoe Rim Trail is a must-visit for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures in Tahoe Vista, California. This 165-mile trail offers panoramic views of the crystal-clear Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep ascents and descents, but the breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Carson Range make it worth the effort. You can also spot unique rock formations and a variety of flora and fauna along the trail. Another top outdoor activity in Tahoe Vista is kayaking on Lake Tahoe. Paddle along the calm, blue waters and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop. For a more relaxed activity, try fishing in the Truckee River, which is teeming with trout. These are just a few of the best trails and outdoor activities available in and near Tahoe Vista.

Top Spots in and near Tahoe Vista

  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Swim in Granite Lake

    5.0
    1.25 mi / 900 ft gain
    Granite Lake is a pristine alpine lake near Lake Tahoe just off the Highway 89 above Emerald Bay. To get there park at the Bayview Campground Trailhead, which can be pretty crowded in peak season so get there early. The trail begins with an split: right takes you into the Desolation Wilderness (a...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga at Lakeview Commons

    Stand up paddle board yoga is some of the most difficult and rewarding yoga there is and you would be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful place to do so than on the south shore of Lake Tahoe.  Lakeview Commons is a city park that provide direct lake access for the public, including boats, along...
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  • Reno, Nevada

    Anderson Park Loop

    4.0
    1.64 mi / 92 ft gain
    Anderson Park Loop is a popular trail for walking or running tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near Reno, Nevada. The trail loops around a pasture and connects up to Bartley Ranch for a longer or more scenic route.   Take in scenic views of the surrounding mountains, but there may be some traf...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Chillin at Lake Tahoe's Kiva Beach

    4.7
    Kiva is a secluded sandy crescent beach flanked by a beautiful meadow and mountain backdrop. This beach is rarely crowded and has free parking unlike other beaches in Tahoe. Kiva is a great place to bring dogs and is actually well known as a dog beach. Kiva is also accessible from the bike trail...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Paddle from Kiva Beach to Emerald Bay

    4.0
    Grab your paddleboard or rent one from Baldwin Beach, and head out along the southwest shores of Lake Tahoe towards Emerald Bay. Enjoy the pristine blue water and keep your head up for the occasional osprey or bald eagle.Once you make it to the bay, there are plenty of places to go. You can relax...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Winter Paddle From Camp Richardson to Kiva Beach

    Starting at Camp Rich you might get some weird looks at the start, but it is all worth it! As you look out at the lake all you see is the beautiful crystal clear water reflecting the gorgeous snow covered mountains. As you throw your board in the water you begin your paddle along the shoreline. T...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Bike around Lake Tahoe

    5.0
    72.2 mi / 4308 ft gain
    You'll want to wake up early for this adventure. Be sure to have breakfast and hydrate before you start.  I suggest going clockwise around the lake. The elevation hit me. I also went with a group of friends, and what's nice about going in a group though is that you can stop every so often to make...
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  • Truckee, California

    Swim at Long Lake near Truckee

    3.7
    1.5 mi / 100 ft gain
    The story goes that twenty or so years ago, long before the advent of the Royal Gorge Cross-Country Ski Area, some local Truckee boys decided to put a couple rope swings up on Long Lake near Soda Springs, CA, and they remain there to this day.Long Lake sits amongst a cluster of both man-made and ...
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  • Truckee, California

    Backpack the Palisades Creek Trail

    4.0
    15 mi / 2200 ft gain
    After driving out to Kidd Lakes and parking at the trailhead, you take off through some easy forest hiking past Cascade Lakes and Long Lake. Pay attention to the cairns marking the trail as you traverse across a large granite section with Devils Peak to your West. The trail is easy to follow and ...
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  • Reno, Nevada

    Huffaker Park Lookout Trail

    4.0
    1.88 mi / 308 ft gain
    Huffaker Park Lookout Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Reno, Nevada.
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  • El Dorado County, California

    Photograph Black Bears at Taylor Creek, South Lake Tahoe

    / 30 ft gain
    Lake Tahoe is a tourist attraction filled with spectacular views and a plethora of wildlife. However, one species in particular has made a lasting impression on both locals and tourists - black bears. The area around Lake Tahoe is prime bear habitat and cities in the vicinity are seeing a rising ...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Catch a Sunset at Keys Beach

    Owned by the State of California, Keys Beach sits at the end of a peninsula bordered by the Tahoe Keys marina inlet to the west and the Upper Truckee River to the east. This relative isolation along with its only access being by water or a single trail keeps the beach remarkably quiet relative to...
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  • Reno, Nevada

    Damonte Ranch Park Wetlands Loop

    5.0
    0.4 mi / 33 ft gain
    Damonte Ranch Park Wetlands Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Sparks, Nevada.
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  • Reno, Nevada

    Damonte Ranch Wetland Loop

    5.0
    3.07 mi / 85 ft gain
    Damonte Ranch Wetland Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Sparks, Nevada.
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Photograph Fallen Leaf Lake's Cascading Falls

    5.0
    This amazing waterfall is right off the road near the Fallen Leaf Campground. Once you enter the campground keep driving straight just a bit further and you will see a pull off on the right hand side. Pull off here and you should see the cascading waterfalls between the trees. Park here, get you...
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  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    Camp at Fallen Leaf Lake

    5.0
    Fallen Leaf Lake is truly one of the more beautiful places in California. Separated from Lake Tahoe by just a one-mile strip of land, it feels worlds away from the crowds and fuss. The campground has over 200 sites that can be reserved here. There are endless hikes nearby including Mount Tallac a...
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