In the whirlwind of planning a trip, the littlest details become monumentally important. What’s the parking situation? Will there be coffee at the hotel? And, of course, what do I bring to wear? We’ve put together a packing guide, so you can be sure that no matter the season, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy all that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Know Before You Go
To know what to pack, you first need to know what to expect. Visit our Know Before You Go page to make sure you’re up to date on the current weather, road conditions, state and local advisories and more.
What to Wear During Spring in Lake Tahoe
Around here, we like to say that spring offers twice the fun. Spring brings sunshine and warmer weather, but the snow tends to linger, so you can enjoy snowy fun in the morning while still getting out on the lake later in the day. In terms of weather, you can expect highs in the low 60s and lows in the low to mid-20s, meaning you’ll want to bring layers. The sun might be shining, but if you’re out on the slopes, you’ll still want to bundle up to stay warm. Be sure to bring lightweight thermals, gloves and warm hats. Essentially, you’ll want to be able to adjust your outfit for changes in the weather, so you can stay warm in the snow but not overheat in the sun. No matter if you’re on-mountain or off, the sun can still be quite bright during the spring, so be sure to pack sunscreen to protect from the rays.
What to Wear During Summer in Lake Tahoe
There’s a reason why travelers regard Lake Tahoe as summer’s official playground. Opportunities for adventure are boundless, with warm days and cool nights offering the perfect environment for activities of all kinds. During the day, you can count on temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s, so you’ll want to dress accordingly, especially if you’re spending your day adventuring. For an activity such as hiking or biking, be sure to wear clothing that will keep you cool while still protecting you from the environment — think sturdy hiking boots, a breathable top and a hat to protect from the sun. Definitely don’t forget sunscreen! If you aren’t planning on being as active, a simple sundress or casual shorts and shirt combination will serve you just fine. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit — whether you’re planning to dip into Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters or relax by a pool, summer in Lake Tahoe calls for some time spent in the water.
In the evenings, things can cool off quickly. It won’t be chilly, exactly, but you might consider a light jacket, scarf or cozy sweatshirt to keep you warm for sunset cruises, al fresco dinners and cozy campfires.
What to Wear During Fall in Lake Tahoe
As the leaves change color and the busy season draws to a close, fall becomes Lake Tahoe’s best-kept secret. It’s one of the most scenic and peaceful times to visit, so if you’re coming to enjoy the views, fall is a great time to plan your escape. Even though the weather is getting colder, you can still expect to enjoy some sunshine — the region usually sees around 250-300 sunny days per year. Temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s, with nights getting chilly, sometimes dipping into the 30s. Layers will be your best friend here. Opt for flannel shirts, light sweaters and cozy scarves and hats that you can easily add or remove as the temperature fluctuates. Depending on your activity, be sure your clothing is breathable and flexible. A fall hike might start out cold, but you’ll certainly warm up as you exert more energy, so being able to remove layers is key. Be sure to pack a few insulated layers in case of an early, unexpected snowstorm.
What to Wear During Winter in Lake Tahoe
As you probably know, the colder months turn Lake Tahoe into a dazzling winter wonderland. We’ve got the largest concentration of downhill skiing in North America, so opportunities for snowy adventure are plentiful. Whether you’re hoping to spend your time gliding down the slopes or you’re more of an après-all-day kind of person, you’ll want to be sure to bundle up. Insulated ski pants, a moisture-wicking base layer and a snow jacket are essential. Even when it’s cold, the sun on the slopes can often be quite bright, so you may want to invest in a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. If you’re actively zipping downhill, ski goggles are key to protecting your eyes from the elements around you. Check out our guide to gearing up for cross-country skiing for more specifics. For après-ski or non-ski days, the key is layering. You’ll want to wear thermal undergarments, a fleece or wool sweater and a thick winter coat that can withstand freezing temperatures and snow. Cozy boots that can handle both snow and slush are a must, as well as thick wool socks to keep your feet warm. Just be sure you can remove a layer or two if needed — those ski lounges can get pretty toasty inside!
Plan Your True Tahoe Escape
With unique adventures all year round, there’s truly no wrong time to plan a visit to Lake Tahoe. Plan your stay today and discover all that True Tahoe has waiting for you. We’ll see you soon!
