Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination to visit any time of year. There’s so much to see in every season! In summer, you can soak up the sunshine and enjoy watersports on the lake. Spring invites you to hit the trails or cast a line for fishing, while winter offers the chance to experience its famous world-class ski slopes. But have you ever thought about visiting Lake Tahoe in the fall?
The fall foliage in Lake Tahoe is hard to beat, plus there are plenty of exciting events going on that will make your vacation a blast. Want to take a trip to Lake Tahoe to see the very best of fall here? How exciting!
In this blog, we’ll teach you everything there is to know about fall foliage in Lake Tahoe, from the top viewing spots to the best time to see fall colors. Let’s get to it!
P.S., Searching for the best deal on a Lake Tahoe vacation? We have you covered!
In this article:
- When Can You See Fall Colors in North Lake Tahoe?
- When is the Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Lake Tahoe in 2025?
- Where Can We See Fall Foliage in Lake Tahoe?
- What Else Can We Do in Lake Tahoe in the Fall?
- Book Your Lake Tahoe Stay Directly with Tahoe Getaways!
When Can You See Fall Colors in North Lake Tahoe?
Timing varies every year, but as a rule, October is the best month to see fall colors in North Lake Tahoe. Peak color arrives then, but you can typically still get good visibility in late September and early November. Since the leaves change at slightly different times every year, it’s a good idea to check when the peak will be before booking your trip! Luckily, there are plenty of real-time tools that allow you to do just that. Speaking of…
When is the Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Lake Tahoe in 2025?
According to the fall foliage map, colors will peak in Truckee, CA, on October 8th, 2025. Some moderate color will start to peek through in late September, and the window from October 5th to October 15th will have the most vibrant colors.
Where Can We See Fall Foliage in Lake Tahoe?
You can spot fall foliage in Lake Tahoe just by going for a simple drive or walk, but there are plenty of places that will allow you spectacular visibility. These are our recommended hikes, parks, and overlooks to see fall foliage in Lake Tahoe:
Donner Memorial State Park
If you’re renting a home in the Tahoe Donner area, it’s easy and convenient to pop over to Donner Memorial State Park! You’ll find plenty of trails to traverse here, with some of the best views in the area for fall foliage.
Elizabethtown Meadows Trail
The Elizabethtown Meadows Trail is a go-to fall hike for many due to its large aspen stands. There’s not much elevation gain here, so it’s a great trail for beginners or anyone looking for a hike that won’t be too strenuous.
Shirley Canyon Trail
This hike is challenging, but rewarding! You’ll pass gorgeous waterfalls, moss-covered boulders and outcroppings, and best of all—fall foliage at every turn on the Shirley Canyon Trail. It’s a stunner any time of year, but you truly can’t beat the autumn colors.
Sand Harbor Overlook
Sand Harbor State Park provides an impressive panoramic view of Lake Tahoe. Sunsets are spectacular year-round at the Sand Harbor Overlook, and the views are only accentuated when the leaves start to change. Many photographers love this overlook for capturing the fall foliage! While the overlook is the real star of the show, be sure to snap a photo or two from the beach, too.
Hellman-Ehrman Mansion
The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, located inside Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, is another great location to see some fall foliage. The grounds are beautiful any time of year, but the autumn breeze and brilliant colors of autumn truly make them come alive!
Emerald Bay State Park
Though it’s a bit further from our Tahoe Getaways vacation rentals than the other spots, we’d be remiss to leave Emerald Bay State Park off the list of best fall foliage spots in Lake Tahoe. This iconic spot in South Lake Tahoe offers some of the best views around! You’ll be glad you made the drive. We’d especially recommend taking the trail to Eagsle Lake if you want to get some hiking in for the day.
What Else Can We Do in Lake Tahoe in the Fall?
There are so many fall events happening in North Lake Tahoe that you won’t want to miss! In fact, fall draws many visitors to our area, both for the stunning fall foliage and annual autumnal celebrations. Here are a few of our favorite Lake Tahoe fall events!
Tahoe City Oktoberfest
- Date: September 20th, 2025
- Time: 12 PM-5 PM
Great Trail Race
- Date: Saturday, September 27th, 2025
- Time: 8:30 AM
Oktoberfest at Palisades Tahoe
- Date: September 27th, 2025
- Time: 12 PM-6 PM
Tahoe Gal “A Liar’s Cruise”
- Date: Saturday, October 4th, 2025
- Time: 3:30 PM-6 PM
Downtown Truckee Wine, Walk & Shop
- Date: Saturday, October 4th, 2025
- Time: 12 PM-4 PM
Tahoe Donner Annual Fall Festival
- Date: Saturday, October 11th, 2025
- Time: 11 AM-4 PM
Book Your Lake Tahoe Stay Directly with Tahoe Getaways!
4 Bed, 4.5 Bath Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental, Morning Star at Gray's Crossing
Now that you know all there is to know about fall foliage in North Lake Tahoe, there’s just one thing left to do: book your trip! At the end of a long day of leaf peeping (whether you’re in the car or hiking on foot), one thing’s for sure: you’ll want a nice vacation rental to curl up and get cozy in. Here at Tahoe Getaways, we have the perfect rentals for you!
Whether you’re searching for the perfect Lake Tahoe cabin, a luxury rental, or want amenities like a private hot tub or lake view, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in our extensive rental catalog. Browse our available Lake Tahoe rentals today and book your stay directly with Tahoe Getaways!