Lake Tahoe in October 2023 [Weather & Top Things to Do]

Are you thinking about visiting Lake Tahoe in October?

If so, you have to be wondering what the weather in Tahoe in October will be like and if it’s worth it to make the trip up to this beautiful alpine lake.

The good news is that we have spent a lot of time exploring Lake Tahoe in October to take advantage of the gorgeous daytime weather with temperatures in the mid-60s, and only three days of rain on average.

If you love the outdoors and prefer to enjoy nature without large crowds, then an adventure in Lake Tahoe should be the center of your Fall plans.

We included everything you could possibly need to know in this article, from the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe in October to what to expect from the weather when you arrive.

Visiting Lake Tahoe in October

We are going to let you in on a little secret about visiting Lake Tahoe in October. 

Not only is this the local’s favorite time of year in Lake Tahoe, but it is also our favorite month to spend some time hitting the trails while enjoying the gorgeous weather with highs in the mid-60s.

October marks the changing of the seasons from the longer and warmer summer days in Lake Tahoe to the start of the brisk chill that sets in before the snow season.

If you decide to visit Lake Tahoe in October, you should expect plenty of sunny days with high average temperatures in the low 60s, with cold nights that can get down into the 30s to 40s.

🏆 WHY VISIT LAKE TAHOE IN OCTOBER

• This small window of time in Tahoe is the best time to visit as most families are done traveling for the year as kids are back in school, which means the Lake’s top attractions are less crowded.

• Finding parking at trailheads or a quiet stretch of beach is easy in October and the traffic that plagues the main roads during the summer will be all cleared up.

• The other huge bonus is that accommodation prices will be at a yearly low, meaning you can score that Lakeview hotel that is normally out of the budget.

• While the weather may be a little cooler with an occasional storm, the area’s Aspen and Cottonwood trees will start to change colors making Lake Tahoe even more beautiful.

South Lake Tahoe in October

October marks a significant shift in the vibe in South Lake Tahoe, as the large crowds will have started to dissipate, providing a much more laid-back environment.

While the summer concert series and the golf tournaments at Edgewood will have ended for the season, there is still plenty of fun to be had in South Lake.

The casinos may not have the same wild party atmosphere and the beach bars may not be as boozy, but you can enjoy a craft beer by the fire at a local craft brewery with some Lake Tahoe locals.

The cooler weather provides the perfect temperatures for a hike on the Rubicon Trail or for exploring South Lakes’ top attractions like Emerald Bay State Park.

October also offers a chance to score a room at one of South Lake Tahoe’s top resort properties for less than half the price of the same property during the summer travel season.

North Lake Tahoe in October

The cooler October weather and the smaller crowds in North Lake Tahoe will ensure that the main beaches in Tahoe City, Incline Village, and Kings Beach will be far less crowded.

This means that you can enjoy destinations in North Lake Tahoe like Sand Harbor without waiting for parking.

This is one of the few times of the year that we enjoy visiting Sand Harbor as we can easily secure a private spot on the sunny beach for a picnic without hundreds of people.

You can also bring your stand-up paddleboard to enjoy some time on the water with fewer wakes than during the summer boating season.

Our favorite thing is during the shoulder season in North Lake, there are plenty of open tables on the terrace for a relaxing lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants, without needing a reservation.

We also found that you can also secure a waterfront cabin on the North Shore of Tahoe that would normally be booked up at half the price of the busy months.

Lake Tahoe Weather in October

• Temperature: average high 62°F, average low 38 °F
• Rain/Snow: 3 days

The weather in Lake Tahoe in October may not be suitable for a day of playing in the crystal clear blue water, but with daytime high temperatures in the 60s, it’s perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

☀️ In the past, we have been lucky and scored a few days when the temperatures jumped up into the 70s for some shorts and t-shirt weather.

Whether you are into mountain biking or just want to take a leisurely trek up to Eagle Lake, October offers a perfect balance of sunny days and moderate temperatures.

💦 Lake Tahoe only sees an average of 3 days of rain in October, which also means that it is highly unlikely that your adventures will get rained out.

We like to take advantage of the cooler weather for some of our more strenuous adventures like climbing to the top of Mount Tallac, knowing that we will not get too sweaty.

In October, there is a small but real possibility that there can be an occasional snowstorm, especially at higher elevations.

This means that you should carry chains and watch the weather before heading into Desolation Wilderness, in the unlikely chance that a storm is on its way.

With almost perfect weather in October, take advantage of this time to enjoy all the sites without the crowds and the oppressive summer heat.

• EARLY OCTOBER 

Early October offers the best weather of the month with daytime highs commonly jumping into the 70s and is widely considered to be the best time to go to Lake Tahoe.

This gorgeous weather in combination with the water temperatures remaining warmer from the summer months means you may even score some beach days.

Even though the daytime high temperatures may be near perfect, the nights still cool down quickly and sit around the mid-30s, and the mornings will start off chilly before the sun crests the valley.

We have found that this is the perfect combination of warm days for exploring, and cozy nights by the fire that make it feel like the mountains.

• MID-OCTOBER

By mid-October, the weather will have cooled down a little, but you still may be treated to some days with warmer temperatures in the high 60s to around 70° F.

There have also been recent years where the temperatures drop down into the high 50s making it still comfortable for outdoor adventures if you wear extra layers.

Generally, the skies will be mostly clear with some occasional clouds, and there is only a small chance of getting some rain in mid-October.

This is still one of the best times of the year to visit, as you will not be limited by the weather, and you can explore the entire Lake Tahoe Basin without having to worry about bad weather.

• LATE OCTOBER

In Lake Tahoe in late October, the weather becomes a little less predictable, as the daytime highs can swing from the high 40s, all the way to the low 60s.

You will have to watch the weather a little closer for planning your adventures when you arrive, but for the most part, the weather will be good enough for hiking and visits to top attractions.

The chance of getting a rainy day goes up slightly, and the probability of getting a cold front coming into Tahoe increases.

We have been lucky and got to see some snow flurries at night, but it melted off by morning at Lake Tahoe’s base elevation.

The weather is usually still amazing during late October, but you will need to be a little more adaptive with your plans, and what clothes you will plan on wearing.

This is our favorite time to book a cabin with a hot tub to warm our bones if the Lake Tahoe temperature in October takes a dip.

South Lake Tahoe Weather in October

The weather in South Lake Tahoe is ideal for taking advantage of the area’s amazing natural attractions like Vikingsholm and Fallen Leaf Lake.

It’s also perfect for relaxing on the deck of a waterfront restaurant like Artemis or Riva Grill for some lakeside dining and adult beverages.

The temperatures will have cooled down from the warmer summer months, but it is still warm enough on many days to enjoy some time at South Lake Tahoe’s amazing beaches.

From enjoying some time on the patio at a local craft brewery, or playing a round at Edgewood or the Lake Tahoe golf course, you are sure to score plenty of sun and some fresh mountain air.

North Lake Tahoe Weather in October

North Lake Tahoe is often overlooked in October, and people are missing out on daytime highs that can jump up into the low 70s, which offers the perfect chance for a relaxing day at Kings Beach.

In North Lake Tahoe, the great October weather draws out the locals for some stand-up paddle boarding, as the temperatures are still warm enough and the boat wakes are at a minimum as the boating season will have ended.

October also offers a great opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to hit the roads with perfect weather for the casual Incline Village bike path, or the challenging 75-mile triangle loop.

North Lake Tahoe is an amazing place to visit in October, and you won’t have to worry about getting snowed in or facing storms that will ruin your trip.

Does it snow in Lake Tahoe in October?

Yes, it does snow in Lake Tahoe in October, but it is fairly rare at the lower elevation by the lake as the area only gets an average of three days of precipitation in the month.

While it occasionally snows at night when the temperatures dip, we found that it normally doesn’t stick around except at the higher elevations on the mountain peaks.

Even if there is a storm, there will not be enough snow for tubing or sledding, but you may capture some beautiful shots of the trees being flocked with a good dusting of powder.

Lake Tahoe is anything other than a winter wonderland destination during October, but you may see some flakes falling if you are there during an early winter storm.

Even though the probability of there being a significant snowstorm is very unlikely, we recommend that you still carry chains along with a blanket and other provisions, just in case.

📢 LOCAL TIP: You will have to wait until late November in Tahoe at the earliest If you want to go skiing or snowboarding.

Is it warm in Lake Tahoe in October?

Lake Tahoe in October can be warm with daytime highs occasionally climbing all the way into the 70s, but the nights are chilly even on the warmest days.

We have found that the weather in October is often warm enough to enjoy a day at the beach or some kayaking, but most of the month will not be warm enough for any type of water-based recreation.

On the other hand, it is plenty warm enough for exploring Tahoe’s majestic attractions like Emerald Bay or hiking the many trails that surround the lake.

While Lake Tahoe would not be considered one of the warmer months of the year, it is not one of the cold months.

If you are seeking the warmest experience possible in Lake Tahoe for an October getaway, plan on visiting during the early part of the month when there is a higher chance of warm sunny days.

Is Lake Tahoe cold in October?

Lake Tahoe is not considered cold in October, but the night and morning temperatures can dip down into the 30s on occasion.

After the sun sets, the temperatures in Lake Tahoe in October can dip dramatically, making you wish that you packed a puff jacket and a few extra layers.

The temperatures during the day generally warm up enough to allow for lots of outdoor recreation and outdoor dining, but you will need to plan for the chilly evenings.

For those that get cold easily, it’s best to plan your Lake Tahoe adventure during the earlier portion of the month when the temperatures can get as warm as the mid-70s, and the nighttime lows stay in the mid-30s.

There is a chance when visiting in October that there can be an early winter storm that can bring cold temperatures and small amounts of snow flurries.

It’s important to show up prepared with plenty of layers, a rain jacket, and snow chains for the car. (see our packing list here)

Is October a good time to visit Lake Tahoe?

Yes, October is one of the best times of the year to visit Lake Tahoe, especially for anyone that wants to get the most out of enjoying nature and wants to avoid crowds.

This time of year is when you will see Lake Tahoe locals active outdoors, making the most out of their adventures in relative peace and quiet.

Lake Tahoe is best enjoyed when you won’t have to wait an hour to find a parking spot at popular attractions or when you will not have to sit in traffic.

This is our favorite time of year to visit, as it is also affordable to book accommodation for a few days as prices are at least half the going rate of summer or ski season.

It’s also easy to travel to the lake and get around as the roads are free of snow and there are no chain requirements except on rare occasions.

A visit to Lake Tahoe in October offers all the same benefits as summer, without the hassles of overcrowding and sky-high prices.

Make sure to check out our pros and cons list below if you are looking to make a quick decision on planning a trip to Lake Tahoe in October.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe in October 2023

Are you wondering what to do in Lake Tahoe in October? 

Well, here is a short list of the best outdoor activities and relaxing ways to enjoy this majestic blue alpine lake.

From hitting the trails to a relaxing cruise, there is something for everyone to do in Lake Tahoe.

📢 LOCAL TIP: In case you are a winter sports fan, Tahoe’s ski resorts and snow parks usually do not open up until around mid-December for snowboarding, tubing, or cross-country skiing.

Explore some hiking trails

One of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in the Fall is to explore the trails that surround the lake and the mountain passes.

Not only will almost all the trails be accessible, but you won’t have to aggressively seek out parking at the trailhead. 

For us, the best part about hiking in Lake Tahoe in October is that the trails are not too crowded, meaning that you can embrace being in nature instead of trying to pass large groups or struggling to hear the birds over their loud music.

The weather is also ideal for hiking, as the temperatures are just cool enough to not get sweaty, and by midday, you may even find yourself hiking in a t-shirt.

If you decide to head up to the summit for some great views of Lake Tahoe, make sure to prepare accordingly as the temperatures will be much colder and windier at the top.

Some of the top trails for hiking in October in Lake Tahoe include:

• The Rubicon Trail
• Eagle Lake
• Mount Tallac (early October)
• Cascade Falls Trail 
• Fallen Leaf Lake Trail

Go mountain biking

Lake Tahoe is a mountain biking hot spot, with countless trails ready to challenge anyone from novices to professionals.

October is a favorite time of year for local mountain bikers in Lake Tahoe, as the trails are not too crowded with hikers, which allows them to focus on getting down the mountain safely.

The trails will have few muddy areas, as October is a dry month that follows the warm summer months.

The top trails in the region include the popular Flume Trail which runs along the northeastern shore, and the Power Line Trail located in South Lake, which is perfect for beginners.

For serious mountain bikers that don’t mind getting some air, Mr. Toads Wild Ride (experts only) is located near the town of Meyers at Saxon Creek.

Several of the ski resorts in the area also transform into mountain bike parks once the snow melts allowing riders to access the lifts to then ride down the epic trails letting gravity do most of the work.

🚴 MOUNTAIN BIKE PARKS AND RESORTS:

• Northstar California
• Bijou Bike Park
• Boreal / Woodward
• Kirkwood Ski Resort

📢 LOCAL TIP: If you want a leisurely bike ride, this self-guided e-bike tour along the East Shore Trail is an amazing option.

See the Fall colors

Lake Tahoe is not exempt from the beauty associated with the changing of the seasons.

Amongst the pine trees that dominate the landscape, Lake Tahoe is also home to three main types of deciduous trees that change color and lose their leaves each Autumn.

Fall in Lake Tahoe is the perfect time to see the Quaking Aspens, Pacific Dogwoods, and Big Leaf Maples that add a punch of color to the meadows and trails surrounding the lake.

The best place to see the Fall colors in Lake Tahoe is on the trails surrounding the Taylor Creek Visitors Center, where you can either hike or ride a bike along the winding paths.

For even more trees changing color, head 30 minutes south of the lake to Hope Valley, where you can hike the trails or do some late-season camping amongst the falling leaves.

🍁OTHER PLACES IN LAKE TAHOE TO SEE THE FALL FOLIAGE:

• Ebbetts Pass
• Markleeville
• Fallen Leaf Lake
• Zephyr Cove
• Marlette Lake

Go on a scenic drive around the lake

Lake Tahoe has 72 miles of shoreline, and the best way to see all the attractions along the way is to go on a scenic drive.

October offers the best time of year for this day trip around the lake as the traffic will be very low to non-existent, and the roads will still be clear of snow and ice that comes during the winter months.

A trip around the lake will take around three hours, but you can make it an amazing day with lots of stops along the way. 

We like to visit a few beaches, hike some short trails, grab some lunch at a beachside cafe, and stop to watch the Lake Tahoe sunset over the mountain peaks.

The best part is that if it gets too cold, or it starts to sprinkle, you can enjoy the sights from the comfort of your car.

📍 POPULAR STOPS ALONG THE LAKE TAHOE SHORELINE:

• Emerald Bay State Park
• Sand Harbor
• Pope Beach

Visit the hot springs

If the temperature in Lake Tahoe in October gives you a little bit of a chill, you can take a short road trip to visit one of the amazing hot springs near Tahoe.

October is the perfect time to visit a hot spring as they are easily accessible when the roads are clear, and the daytime temperatures are the perfect contrast to the naturally warm waters. 

There are several great options for a therapeutic soak in the mineral-rich waters ranging from hot spring resorts to more natural options that are free to use but offer no facilities.

Whether you are a first-timer, or you already love to submerge yourself in natural hot tubs, then make sure to add this to your October itinerary in Lake Tahoe.

And you will not have to drive over the mountain passes to get to the hot springs near Mammoth Lakes.

Enjoy a cold pint by a fireplace

Lake Tahoe is home to a thriving craft beer scene, and there are plenty of breweries and taphouses where you can enjoy their passion in a pint.

October in Lake Tahoe means that it’s still patio season, and the perfect place to enjoy a pint is outside next to the fire while relaxing in an Adirondack chair. 

We love this unique time of year, which ensures that we will be sharing the glow and warmth of the fire with tourists and locals alike that finally have some time to kick back after the busy summer season.

Every time we head to a local brewery, we end up chatting with fellow travelers and people that live in the area that are happy to share some hidden gems.

Make sure to take some time to slow down and enjoy a pint or two of some great craft beers, and make sure to grab a six-pack to-go.

Take a boat cruise

One of the best ways to experience Lake Tahoe in October is to climb aboard the MS Dixie II and go for a cruise across the impossibly blue waters.

Going for a normal boat ride in October may be a little too chilly, especially later in the month, but aboard this historic paddle ship, you can stay protected from the elements and enjoy the scenery along the way.

You can go for a daytime cruise to Emerald Bay, or you can opt for a sunset cruise with dinner and dancing on the way back to shore.

The best part is you won’t have to book your cruise too early, as it’s not the heart of the tourist season, allowing you to pick a beautiful day where you can spend some time out on the deck.

Visit Sand Harbor without the crowds

Sand Harbor is one of the top destinations in Lake Tahoe for its beautiful shoreline that is accented by a natural underwater rock garden.

The best time of year to experience Sand Harbor is in October when the crowds are gone and the waters are calm as the water ski boats are docked for the season.

This is our favorite time to break out our stand-up paddleboard and hit the water for the best vantage point of the giant boulders below.

Unfortunately, if you do not own a paddleboard or a kayak, the rental companies that are on-site close down later in the month. 

To see the rock garden, you will need to walk out onto the small peninsula to enjoy the view from the short trail.

During the shoulder season, Sand Harbor becomes a popular spot for locals to bring their dogs to the beach, where they can splash in the water and run up and down the sand.

📢 LOCAL TIP: Make sure to visit during the middle of the day when the sun lights up the underwater rock garden, without too much glare or reflection.

Can you kayak in Lake Tahoe in October?

Yes, October is one of the best times of the year for kayaking on Lake Tahoe, as you will not have to contend with too many boat wakes making for a smoother time paddling.

The conditions on less windy days can be like glass offering a chance to pick up the speed and enjoy the views through the crystal clear water.

You will most likely need to bring your own kayak as most rental companies will have shut down for the season as the busy summer months will be over.

The big upside is that the water temperatures will still be relatively warm from the heat of the summer, but you will still want to bring a change of warm clothes in case you get wet as the air temperatures can get cold quickly.

It’s also important to check the weather reports close to the time that you head out as Lake Tahoe’s weather can change in a moment especially as the season gets closer to winter.

Lake Tahoe in the Fall

If you love Autumn and the changing colors of the trees, then you must visit Lake Tahoe in the Fall.

Many areas around the lake have stands of Quacking Aspens, Pacific Dogwoods, and a few Big Leaf Maples that add plenty of color to the already gorgeous landscape.

The best time to visit Lake Tahoe in the fall to see the fall colors is in early October.

This is the perfect opportunity for you to explore these amazing destinations in the Lake Tahoe Basin to see the changing of the seasons firsthand.

Hope Valley

This gorgeous area is known for its large swaths of Quacking Aspens that turn bright yellow in the fall and shimmer in the gentle breezes.

Hope Valley is located just 30 minutes from South Lake Tahoe and is a perfect destination for some hiking on its stunning trails.

We love coming here in the Fall as it is also a great destination for escaping the crowds for some quiet time along the shores of the valley’s creeks and river.

Fallen Leaf Lake

This 3-mile-long alpine lake is one of the easiest ways to take in the fall colors while visiting Lake Tahoe in October.

This is a perfect additional stop if you plan on visiting any of the top South Lake Tahoe attractions including Emerald Bay or Camp Richardson, as they are just minutes apart.

Make sure to set aside some time to walk along the Fallen Leaf Lake Trail, to see the Aspens in all of their fall majesty.

Spooner Lake 

This hidden gem is located along the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe and offers a chance to walk through a stand of Aspens on the trails that surround its shores.

The trails here rarely get busy, especially in October, which means that you can enjoy being surrounded by the fluttering yellow leaves of the Quaking Aspens. 

The trail is 2.5 miles long and the path is relatively flat making this an easy hike for you and your canine companion.

Taylor Creek Visitor Center 

The most popular place to see the fall foliage in Lake Tahoe is at the Taylor Creek visitors center, where you can hike or bike your way along the dirt and paved trails.

From the Taylor Creek Boardwalk, you will see plenty of Aspens and you might see some Kokanee Salmon on their Fall migration to spawn in the cold water.

📢 LOCAL TIP: Watch out for bears as the Kokanee Salmon are one of their favorite fall snacks.

Pros of Visiting Lake Tahoe in October

Smaller Crowds

The summers and winters in Lake Tahoe can be a crowded nightmare with long waits for parking and overpriced stays.

October presents a reprieve as it’s the shoulder season when kids are back in school and vacations are done for the season.

This quiet time of year will ensure that you can enjoy some quiet time in nature, and score a great accommodation at the last minute at half the price.

Less Traffic

Spend your time exploring Lake Tahoe instead of sitting in the traffic that plagues the two-lane roads that surround the shoreline.

During October, the volume of visitors goes down considerably, which reduces the congestion on the highways.

Visiting in October will ensure that you get to spend your time doing what you want to, instead of ruining your trip sitting in traffic.

Plenty of activities

While the weather may not always be warm enough in October for a beach day, there is plenty of outdoor recreation during this Autumn month.

The top draws to Lake Tahoe in October are kayaking on the calmer water, hiking the trails without congestion, and biking along the trails without dodging too many hikers.

This is the perfect time of year to get outside in Lake Tahoe, as the weather is mild during the day, and you will not have any trouble snagging a parking spot at a trailhead.

Beautiful Fall Colors

A visit to Lake Tahoe comes with the added bonus of getting an extra pop of color added to the already majestic scenery.

The local deciduous trees will be showing off their fall colors, which stand in stark contrast to the green pine trees and the grey granite peaks.

This special time of year is worth a visit on its own, and it adds several destinations like Spooner Lake and Hope Valley to any October Lake Tahoe itinerary.

Affordable Accommodations

Hotels and Airbnbs in the Lake Tahoe area charge stunningly expensive rates during the busy summer travel season, but come October the prices drop by as much as half.

This makes visiting during October affordable compared to the previous months, with prices that are as low as a visit to Lake Tahoe in April during the opposite shoulder season.

For those that have dreamed of scoring a cabin or a room at a resort with views of the lake, this is the time of year, as you can secure these accommodations at the lowest prices of the year.

Cons of Visiting Lake Tahoe in October

Waterfalls may have dried up

If you are hoping to see some majestic waterfalls as a part of your visit to Lake Tahoe, sadly you may be disappointed as many will have dried up during the long warm summer.

While not all the waterfalls will be dry, the remaining that are flowing will be reduced to a trickle. 

If you are hoping to hike to Cascade Falls or spend some time at Glen Alpine Falls, you will have to wait till late spring.

Some activities are unavailable

As the summer travel season will have already wound down, many of the businesses that provide services for tourists will have already shut down.

The Heavenly Village gondola will be closed for the season, and many rental companies for boats and kayaks will have stored their watercraft in preparation for the winter.

We also found that many of the government-run recreation facilities close after the summer including campgrounds and beach parking areas.

Do not fret as there is still plenty to do, as you can still find campgrounds that will be open and you can park along the road to access the beach.

Weather is unpredictable

As Autumn starts to set in, the weather will start to be a little less consistent as there will be a chance of random colder days and the occasional winter storm.

October is relatively mild when it comes to the weather, but you will need to check fairly frequently before heading out to trails or for other outdoor adventures.

On average, Lake Tahoe only gets three inches of precipitation in October, but there are random cold stretches, and you may even get some snow.

Chilly evenings

The days in Lake Tahoe in October are often on the warm side, but the evening can get chilly with temperatures dropping rapidly after the sun sets.

If you plan to spend the day outdoors and stay out into the evening, you will want to plan ahead and bring extra layers.

If you are planning on dining alfresco at a lakeside restaurant or are interested in a few beers by the fire pit, then you might get a little cold.

Lake Tahoe Activities in October 2023

• Fall Fish Festival (Kokanee Salmon Festival)

This fun and informative event is a perfect opportunity for families with kids to learn about this important part of the Lake Tahoe natural environment.

Kids will learn about the Kokanee Salmon migration and its connection to the local black bear population with informative activities, along with fun-filled activities including a visit from Smokey Bear.

Our favorite part of the festivities is the annual Kokanee Trail Run, with distances ranging from a half mile to a half marathon. 

• Tahoe City Oktoberfest 

While this event takes place on September 23rd, we wanted to include it for those that love beer and are planning to visit Lake Tahoe in early October. 

You might consider starting your vacation early to kick off your trip with some steins of beer and your favorite pair of lederhosen.

• Lake Tahoe Marathon 

For all you distance runners out there, there are three Lake Tahoe events over three days that have been going strong for 28 years.

In fact, they host three marathons consecutively with different routes along the south, eastern, and north shores of the lake.

You can sign up for a half marathon or the full marathon, or go for the triple and complete three marathons in three days.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe in October

Lake Tahoe is huge, and each shore of the lake offers up its own unique feel and accommodation options.

From West Lake to South Lake, each has its fans with their own preferences for entertainment including nightlife, restaurants, and access to nature.

We personally love all the options, depending on what we expect out of our trip, and how long we plan to stay.

• SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

The most lively and crowded part of the shoreline is South Lake which has the most accommodation options including the massive casinos. 

This is where you will find the most restaurants and entertainment along with some of the area’s top attractions like Emerald Bay and Pope Beach.

🏨 Basecamp Tahoe South – This is one of our go-to places to stay when visiting Tahoe in the Fall. It attracts a hip and outdoorsy crowd, plus they have an on-site brewery with great outdoor seating with fire pits.

• WEST LAKE TAHOE

West Lake is a more secluded area of the shore, which has more of a neighborhood feel if it was built right inside the forest.

This is the area of the lake you will want to consider if you dream of staying in a charming cabin in the woods away from the crowds.

🏨 The Cottage Inn at Lake Tahoe – This is a super charming Inn that provides all that you could want out of a stay at a cabin in the woods with all the conveniences of a hotel including an amazing breakfast delivered to your door each morning of your stay.

• NORTH LAKE TAHOE

This area of Lake Tahoe is comprised of several smaller towns including Tahoe City, Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista, and Incline Village.

Consider North Lake Tahoe if you are looking for a good balance of easy access to restaurants and shops, but also want a natural feel with easy access to several great beaches.

🏨 Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort – If your ideal accommodation has everything you could need for a getaway, then stay at the Hyatt. The property includes onsite restaurants, casinos, a private beach, heated pools, and more.

• EAST LAKE TAHOE

Often overlooked, East Lake Tahoe offers up access to some of the best beaches and trails on the Nevada side of the shoreline.

Accommodation options are very limited, but you may be able to find a few homes and cabins for rent for a longer stay.

What to Wear in Lake Tahoe in October

• Trail shoes with good grip (Her, Him) – When hitting the trails, safety starts with a stable pair of shoes that have plenty of grip for dealing with a variety of surfaces from slippery rocks to muddy slopes. 

• Hiking Jacket (Her, Him) – Whenever heading to the high country in mountainous areas like Lake Tahoe, you need to be prepared to stay dry, as storms can come out of nowhere which can make you miserable or even worse if it’s cold.

• Trekking Pants (Her, Him) – Lake Tahoe in October can be on the cold side, and a good pair of four-way stretch hiking pants can keep you warm and provide you with the maneuverability to tackle any trail.

• Fleece-lined Leggings – Just because you are heading out for a hike in Lake Tahoe, doesn’t mean you won’t want to look your best for some photos along the way. Fleece-lined leggings provide all the warmth, but in a more stylish fitted option that moves well on the trail.

• Merino Wool Sweater (Her, Him) – Not only is this Merino Wool sweater super warm and comfortable, but it is also super odor resistant due to its natural anti-microbial properties. This is a great base layer for those chilly days as it fits well under a jacket.

• Hiking Shirt – The worst thing you can wear on a hike is a cotton t-shirt or a blend that will absorb sweat and leave you freezing cold and wet when you stop trekking. Make sure you wear a tech shirt that is designed to wick sweat away from the body so you stay dry even on the most strenuous trails.

• Merino Wool Socks (Her, Him) – These Darn Tough socks live up to their name and they are backed by a lifetime guarantee to ensure that you will be able to hike for years in a single pair. They are super odor resistant which is a big bonus when you go to take them off at the end of a long outdoor adventure.

• Gloves, beanies, scarves/buffs – These extra accessories will make the difference between cutting your time outdoors short, and staying comfortable for hours of time in nature. Make sure you stay nice and warm with these essential mountain gear.

FAQs

Is Lake Tahoe swimmable in October?

Yes, Lake Tahoe is swimmable in October, but the air temperatures outside the water can be extra uncomfortable if you are not prepared with a change of warm clothes and a place to warm up. 

The water temperatures are similar to the summer, but the daytime highs average in the mid-60s for most of the month of October.

For a more comfortable swim, bring a wetsuit so that you will stay warm in and outside of the water.

What is Lake Tahoe like in October?

Lake Tahoe in October offers almost all the outdoor recreation and fun that you will get during the busy summer, but with half the crowds, and slightly cooler temperatures.

Prices for accommodations are at a seasonal low, and the beaches and trails can be easily accessed as parking is seldom full.

While the nightlife in places like South Lake Tahoe may be a little quieter, there are still plenty of lively dining options and breweries for a fun night out.

Is Lake Tahoe worth visiting in October?

For many Lake Tahoe visitors and locals, October is their favorite time of year as all the outdoor recreation is still available without the massive crowds and congested roads.

October also represents the least expensive time of year for accommodations, which means that you can score a room with lake views for half the price of the busy summer travel season.

For those that want to experience Lake Tahoe at its best, head up the mountain and enjoy some quiet time in nature in October.

Is Lake Tahoe still warm in October?

No, Lake Tahoe is not warm in October, but it is not considered to be cold except late at night or in the early mornings.

The average daytime high for the month is high 62°F with many days earlier in the month jumping up into the low 70s.

It does get chilly in October in Lake Tahoe with an average low of 38 °F, so visitors will want to be prepared with extra layers and to carry chains for their car in case an early winter storm rolls through.

Can you golf in Lake Tahoe in October?

Yes, you can golf in Lake Tahoe in October, with several local courses including the iconic Edgewood offering tee times throughout the month.

October is one of the best times of the year for a round of golf in Lake Tahoe, with moderate temperatures and only an average of three days of rain.

Typically the courses are a lot less busy, so scoring a last-minute tee time is possible, and with a little cooler weather, you won’t have to start your round so early.

Is Lake Tahoe fun in the fall?

Fall is one of the most fun times to visit Lake Tahoe, as all the outdoor recreation is still available for the season, and there is plenty of nightlife at the casinos or at one of the amazing local breweries.

While the lake won’t be as crowded as the busy summer tourist season, there will still be plenty of energy at restaurants and watering holes to keep it fun.

October is also a time when you are more likely to rub elbows with locals that finally have time to get out and enjoy the lake and all its amenities after a busy summer. 

How should I dress for Lake Tahoe in October?

It’s important to dress in layers in October as the temperatures vary greatly from the daytime average high of 62°F to night-time temps that sit around 38 °F.

This means that you will need to be flexible to adapt to the changing temperatures based on the time of day and what activities you plan to partake in.

It’s important to remember to bring along a waterproof jacket as the weather can change quickly in mountainous environments.

Bottom Line

Now that you know everything you could possibly need to know about visiting Lake Tahoe in October, all you have to do is book a hotel or Airbnb.

Now pack your bags and get ready to hike Lake Tahoe’s stunning trails, and you may get lucky and get a few warm days at the beach.