Lake Tahoe Guide: Clear Kayaking, Scenic Trails, and Foodie Finds
For three days, I had the privilege of exploring Lake Tahoe; let me tell you, it was an adventure for the books! From clear kayaking on the pristine waters to hiking scenic trails and savoring delicious bites at local gems, I'm excited to share this travel guide on which scenic trails to explore and where to find the best food on your next visit!
Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful clear lakes in the world. Plus, it’s only a short 50-minute flight from Vegas and a 1-hour drive from the Reno airport – making it a great weekend trip from Las Vegas!
Clear Kayaking in Lake Tahoe
Before we get into more details, let me share where I booked my transparent kayak – Wild Society. Now, let's be honest—no experience is perfect. While I thoroughly enjoyed my time clear kayaking, I must mention that this company's check-in and out process was a bit unclear once I arrived. However, once I got past that, the kayaks themselves were fantastic! Sturdy, comfortable, and offering an unforgettable perspective of the lake's blue waters.
The prices for these clear kayaks are reasonable, starting at $60 for a 1-hour rental, $100 for 2 hours, and $200 for a 4-hour single-person rental. Trust me; the experience of gliding atop the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe in one of these see-through kayaks is worth every penny!
If you prefer guided tours, check out Clearly Tahoe or Tahoe Paddle Sports – which includes photography services for guests.
Now let's dive into the scenic trails and foodie finds in Lake Tahoe!
Where to Explore
East Shore Trail
Start your day with a morning walk or bike ride along the East Shore Trail. You'll be surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and epic views, leaving you in awe! Pro tip: Park your wheels at the Tunnel Creek restaurant. It's a great starting point and an excellent spot to grab some delicious breakfast! (More details in the next section!)
Bonsai Rock
Looking for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Tahoe? Check out the Bonsai Rock! Although there's no designated trail, the effort to get here is totally worth it. Parking is tricky. Most visitors park at the turnout on the west side of the road.
Cave Rock Trail
Ready to conquer new heights with stunning panoramas? Embark on a short hike up Cave Rock and prepare to be blown away! The trail only takes 5-10 minutes to reach the top of this incredible cave. Pro tip: Parking is tricky. When we went, the designated area was still under construction, but you can park in the nearby neighborhood up the hill. But hey, it all adds to the adventure, right?
Emerald Bay
Prepare to be enchanted by the turquoise beauty of Emerald Bay! This place is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true! You can camp, trek, kayak, and swim in this magical bay. My suggestion? Dedicate a whole day to exploring this area, and if you've got the time, go for a kayaking adventure to the Fannette Island Tea House! Oh, I wish I had more time to check out this island.
Eagle Falls
Want to feel the power of nature's cascading wonder? Take the 20-minute moderately challenging hike to Eagle Falls, and you won't be disappointed! The landscapes are simply breathtaking! Remember your camera; you'll want to capture every moment of this awe-inspiring trek!
Where to Eat
After an exhilarating day of exploring the wonders of Lake Tahoe, it's time to treat your taste buds to some delightful local cuisine! Here are my top restaurant recommendations for satisfying your hunger.
Tunnel Creek Cafe
Start your day right with a visit to Tunnel Creek Cafe. Fuel up with their tasty Protein Bowl, packed with nutritious ingredients that energize you for your adventures! 🌱 Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply craving a delicious, wholesome meal, this spot won't disappoint!
Inclined Burgers and Brews
Looking for the perfect burger joint with a fantastic selection of brews? Look no further than Inclined Burgers and Brews! Treat yourself to their mouthwatering burgers crafted with love and paired with your favorite local or craft beer. It's the ideal spot to unwind and celebrate a day well spent in Tahoe!
Whitecaps Pizza
Whitecaps Pizza is a must-try, but the real winner was their sandwiches. I ordered the Pesto Chicken Sandwich, a delightful twist on the classic pizza flavors that will leave you craving more! And if you're in the mood for something Italian-inspired, don't miss their Italian Sandwich, filled with all the savory goodness you'd expect from an Italian delicacy!
Mediterranean Cafe
When searching for a restaurant on Yelp, I noticed the Mediterranean Cafe was among the only few spots with a 5-star rating in the area. The reviews did not lie – the food was terrific. Try the Beef and Lamb wrap, which has perfectly seasoned meat, turmeric rice, and tzatziki sauce. And for a unique twist, start with their Gochujang Wings, a fusion of Korean flavors that will tantalize your taste buds like never before!
Ti's Mesquite Rotisserie
Last but certainly not least, Ti's Mesquite Rotisserie is the place to be if you're craving some hearty and flavorful Mexican cuisine! Treat yourself to their Chicken Burrito, stuffed with tender, juicy rotisserie chicken and a medley of mouthwatering fillings. I couldn't finish the whole burrito, so I saved it for breakfast the next day!
Log Cabin Ice Cream
And of course, we can't forget about dessert! After a satisfying meal, treat yourself to a sweet ending at Log Cabin Ice Cream. Their delightful ice cream flavors are the perfect way to cool down and reward yourself for a fantastic day in Lake Tahoe!
Whether you're biking, hiking, swimming, or kayaking, Tahoe has something to offer every nature lover and thrill-seeker out there!
Happy exploring!