10 Fall Activities in Lake Tahoe to Celebrate the Season

Lake Tahoe in the Fall

Lake Tahoe in the fall may even be better than summer (yep, you heard that right). The crowds thin out this time of the year, making the trails and roads more peaceful. Complete with changing leaves for your seasonal fall colors and crisp air, fall in Lake Tahoe is the perfect time for a fun and relaxing getaway. Get out into the beautiful wilderness, celebrate the best food and drinks of fall, and have a haunting good time in Lake Tahoe this fall. To ensure your time in Lake Tahoe is filled with the best memories possible, we have outlined some of our favorite fall activities in Lake Tahoe.

Here are a few of our favorite fall activities in Lake Tahoe:

1. Taylor Creek Kokanee Salmon

You may not think that a salmon migration is a must-see event until you witness the kokanee salmon swim upstream in Lake Tahoe. Taylor Creek is used by 95% of the kokanee salmon and is the best spot to view their great migration in the fall. The Rainbow Trail at Taylor Creek offers a Stream Profile Chamber underwater viewing area to see the fish.

On October 5-6, the Fall Fish Fest celebrates this migration. Hosted by the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management, the Fall Fish Festival features giant inflatable fish, children’s activities, food, educational booths, face painting, and more. There is also a 5K, 10K, and half marathon race.

2. Oktoberfest Celebrations

What’s fall without Oktoberfest? There are several Oktoberfest celebrations, including the Alibi Oktoberfest in Truckee on October 5 from 12 - 11 p.m. The outdoor area is transformed into a seasonal oasis featuring the brewery’s German lagers and ales as well as food, games, and custom German steins.

Another big Oktoberfest event is the 25th Annual Oktoberfest at Camp Richardson’s. This free event is October 5-6 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Check out the beer and brat boil, brat-eating contest, pumpkin patch, face painting, beer and wine garden, peeps & pups costume contest, rock wall, bounce house, and much more.

3. Tahoe Terror at the Tallac Historic Site

Hosted by the South Tahoe High School, Tahoe Terror is a family-friendly, yet spooky show. The Tallac Historic Pope Estate is transformed into a ghoulish experience inspired by the unsolved historical mysteries that took place at the location. Tahoe Terror takes place October 18, 19, and 20. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids 6-12, and free for kids 5 and under.

4. See the Fall Foliage

The fall scenery in Lake Tahoe is unlike any other. Drive along the Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive, hike to Cascade Falls, or bike the famous single-track Flume Trail to take in the changing leaves. The crisp air makes this time of the year perfect for outdoor activities because the sun will still keep it from getting too cold.

For those looking to capture the perfect fall photo, some of the best spots to see fall foliage include Spooner Lake, Marlette Lake, and Hope Valley. These locations offer stunning views of the vibrant autumn colors and are perfect for a scenic drive or hike.

5. Passport to Dining

The 15th Annual Passport to Dining at the North Tahoe Event Center is Thursday, November 7. This fall gathering is a local’s favorite featuring 30 restaurants, wineries, breweries, and more with unlimited tastings for guests. There’s also a silent auction and raffle. Advance tickets are $40, and day-of-event tickets are $60.

6. Annual Fall Festival

Looking for a classic fall festival in Tahoe? On October 12, the Annual Fall Festival at Northwoods Clubhouse is a family-friendly activity to help ring in the fall season. This event features a kids carnival area, a pumpkin patch, arts and crafts vendors, seasonal food and drinks, pony rides, a costume contest, live music, and more. Tickets cost $10 for adults, $25 for kids 2-15, and free for toddlers and infants.

7. Hiking and Biking

Fall is the perfect time for hiking and biking in Lake Tahoe. The hiking trails are less crowded, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Popular trails include the Rubicon Trail, Eagle Lake Trail, and Mount Tallac Trail. For mountain biking, the Flume Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail offer stunning views and challenging terrain.

The Rubicon Trail is particularly popular for its breathtaking views of Emerald Bay and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. The trail is moderately difficult and spans about 16.4 miles round trip, making it suitable for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding adventure.

8. Lake Cruises

Experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe in the fall by taking a cruise on the lake. Several companies offer scenic cruises that provide breathtaking views of the fall foliage and surrounding mountains. This is a relaxing way to take in the scenery and enjoy the crisp fall air.

One of the most popular options is the Tahoe Queen, a paddlewheel boat that offers daily sightseeing cruises. The boat features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the views regardless of the weather. Another great option is the MS Dixie II, which offers similar cruises and even includes a dinner cruise option for those looking for a romantic evening on the lake.

9. Visit Local Breweries and Wineries

Fall is a great time to visit local breweries and wineries in Lake Tahoe. Many offer seasonal brews and wines that are perfect for the fall season. Some popular spots include Alibi Ale Works, South Lake Brewing Company, and Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company. Enjoy a tasting, take a tour, and learn about the local brewing and winemaking process.

For wine lovers, the Tahoe Tastings tour is a must-try. This unique experience takes guests on a scenic boat ride around the lake while they enjoy a wine tasting of local and regional wines. The tour offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a memorable way to spend an afternoon or evening.

10. Fall Events and Festivals

In addition to Oktoberfest and the Fall Festival, Lake Tahoe hosts several other fall events and festivals. The Tahoe City Harvest Festival, Truckee Fall Festival, and South Lake Tahoe Pumpkin Festival are just a few of the events you can enjoy. These festivals offer fun activities for all ages, including pumpkin patches, hayrides, live music, and more.

The Tahoe City Harvest Festival, held in late October, features a variety of activities such as a pumpkin carving contest, apple bobbing, and a scarecrow building competition. This family-friendly event is perfect for getting into the fall spirit and enjoying a day of fun and festivities.

Plan Your Lake Tahoe Vacation This Fall with Tahoe Exclusive

Tahoe in the fall offers pristine weather conditions, smaller crowds, and plenty of events and things to do. If you’re planning a vacation to the High Sierra, book one of our Lake Tahoe vacation rentals today.

For more information about fall activities in Lake Tahoe, check out our blog, area guide, and seasonal events pages.

Ready to experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe in the fall? Book your stay with Tahoe Exclusive Vacation Rentals and start planning your autumn adventure today!