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48-hour Tahoe getaway: regional highlights you can’t miss

Autumn Whitney
awhitney@tahoedailytribune.com
The Hot Shot Zip Line is one of the activities offered at Heavenly Mountain Resort's Epic Discovery. Summer mountain activities close in September, so experience them while you can.
Courtesy / Heavenly Mountain Resort |

Summer is ending, school is starting and it’s work season. All the increased responsibility means less time to vacation in Lake Tahoe. With only one weekend in town, what highlights do you need to see? We’ve got your back — with the help of Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority. Here are some of the top places you should hit with only 48 hours in the Basin.

Emerald Bay

Whether you take a cruise boat, a drive or a hike, you have to get out and see the state park, which is also one of South Shore’s most iconic spots.



If you have the time, do more than just take in the scenic view. Visit Fannette Island and the Tea House, which, along with Vikingsholm Castle, was constructed in the 1920s. For trail-goers, countless hikes are available in the area. Head up to Cascade Falls or Eagle Falls for additional scenic spots.

If you’re on a tight schedule and want to see a bird’s-eye view of the entire region, visit Inspiration Point, located 600 feet above the lake.



Heavenly Gondola & Village

Take a scenic ride up the Gondola to the top of Heavenly Mountain for breathtaking views. While you’re there, spend time at the resort’s newest addition — Epic Discovery. A day filled with ropes courses, zip lines, an alpine coaster and more is one of the top ways to experience Tahoe.

The Heavenly fun doesn’t stop there, however. Fill your evening exploring Heavenly Village, shopping at unique boutiques and eating at some of the best après-adventure spots like Basecamp Pizza, Azul Latin Kitchen or Kalani’s.

FYI — Epic Discovery and the Gondola both close in September to prepare for the winter season, so get them in while you can.

Watch the sunset

Experience the sky turning orange over the bright blue waters of Lake Tahoe. Sip on a signature drink at a go-to waterfront restaurant like the Beacon or Riva Grill while the day comes to a close.

For an alternate experience, wake up bright and early and watch the sun rise from the top of Cave Rock.

Get on the water

You have to experience those pristine blue waters somehow — after all, what is a trip to Tahoe without time on the lake? Located in Zephyr Cove, the M.S. Dixie II offers daytime and dinner cruises, as well as private charters. Seating 500 passengers, she is the largest cruising vessel in South Lake Tahoe.

If you’re an active person, look no further than South Tahoe Standup Paddle. Explore the lake up close on a paddleboard, kayak or pedal boat. Whether you’re new to paddleboarding or an expert — South Tahoe SUP has options for everyone. Offering rentals, lessons and tours, you decide whether you want to take the equipment out on your own, learn more or take a guided tour of the lake.

On the town

Conclude a day with a magic show at The Loft or a night of comedy at Harveys Improv, or check out one of the many Stateline nightclubs — PEEK at Harrah’s and Opal at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa are popular choices.

Up for a pub crawl? Great stops include Cold Water Brewery and Grill, Sidellis Lake Tahoe, Basecamp Hotel and Coachman Hotel — the latter of which has Alibi Ale Works, an Incline Village Brewery, on tap.

If you’re the type to sit back and relax after a long day, check out live music at local bars like McP’s and California Burger Co.

However you choose to spend your 48 hours in the Basin, it’s sure to be great — the region has something for everyone.


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