Our Favorite Things to Do in Tahoe Winters

Heavenly Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe photograph by artist Jon Paul at Marcus Ashley Gallery

Lake Tahoe is an absolute winter wonderland. If you enjoy a cozy fire with craft beer, entertainment, and a great view, this is the place for you. Here are the top recommendations for things to do in Tahoe during winter, brought to you by our local staff at Marcus Ashley Gallery.

Hit the Slopes

Skiing is an absolute must! Lake Tahoe is internationally famous for its gorgeous ski resorts, and this is a great place to hone your skills or start learning. No matter your fitness or skill level, a ski resort is a fun place everyone can enjoy. 

There are a number of fantastic ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, stretching over both Nevada and California and offering beautiful views of the lake from the slopes. Families with kids can hit the bunny slopes or go tubing.  Advanced skiers can get an adrenaline rush on the intense black diamond valleys. 

Kirkwood is a bit more remote, but its steep slopes are highly sought-after by thrill-seekers. Sierra-at-Tahoe has a laid-back atmosphere, lovely scenery, and that warm, cozy feeling we love about winter. It also has one of the best ski schools around for every skill level, from beginners to experts.

Have a Night Out at AleWorX at the Y

Head over to AleWorX for amazing craft beer and wood-fired pizza. This wonderful venue features a self-serve tap wall of unique craft beer, and the patio is always alive with music and entertainment. Visiting this fun local nightlife hotspot is a must on our list of things to do in Tahoe in the winter.

Eat at Our Favorite Local Restaurants 

Fine dining is abundant in South Lake Tahoe, and our gallery staff has had the pleasure to experience it all. You can’t go wrong with a delicious night out at Riva Grill and the Edgewood Resort Bistro. Riva Grill is located right on the lake, and its outdoor patio seating offers breathtaking views. The Edgewood Bistro has classic menu options that everyone can enjoy in a beautiful, comfortable ambience.

Watch Magic Fusion at the Loft Theatre & Lounge

This perfect mix of magic and comedy is one of our top personal recommendations for things to do in Tahoe in the winter. Magic Fusion features world-class magicians and is called “Tahoe’s #1 show” for a reason. It’s the perfect evening entertainment on a cold, wintry night.

The show is appropriate for both children and adults, and there’s a special matinee on Sunday where you can get one child ticket free. 

Bundle Up for a Winter Hike

Zephyr Cove, Lake Tahoe in winter photography by artist Jon Paul at Marcus Ashley Gallery

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to avoid the trails. The scenery around Lake Tahoe is phenomenal in winter, and you shouldn’t miss it. Simply bundle up and bring some hand warmers and boots with a good tread. Get out there and have an adventure! 

We love hiking the nearby Mount Tallac Loop and Cave Rock trails. Both of these trails are wildly popular for their accessibility and gorgeous, sweeping views. But in the silence and serenity of winter, you might not see another soul on the peaceful trail. The Mount Tallac Loop is approximately a full day’s hike, so plan ahead and come prepared.

You can also try snowshoeing on many of the South Lake Tahoe trails! Look out for one of the many local snow equipment rental services and enjoy much better mobility on packed snow.

Visit Our Gallery

Forest near Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, photograph by artist Jon Paul at Marcus Ashley Gallery

We’d be remiss not to say visiting our own Marcus Ashley Gallery is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Tahoe during winter. The gallery is located in Heavenly Village, a delightful area with shopping centers, theaters, and restaurants adorned with festive holiday lights.

Our expansive collection features exclusive works from Jon Paul, Dr. Seuss, Malcolm Tibbets, Michael Parkes, Rolinda Stotts, and many more. If you like what you see, we offer a variety of originals and limited edition prints, as well as custom framing services and art consultations to help you along the way. Browse our online gallery to explore more.