Top Day Trips in Lake Tahoe, Reno and Beyond

Ahh, remember the good old days in the summer when you packed the car and headed out for a day trip with your family or friends? Well, thanks to all the top day trips you can enjoy from your vacation home or year-round home at the Lake, your summer fun can begin NOW!

Take a look at the suggestions for the top day trips you can take suggested by our team at Sun Bear Realty and Property Management. Then, if you have yet to do so, book your short term vacation rental in North Lake Tahoe and Incline Village, or see our list of year-round long-term homes for rent in Reno and Lake Tahoe. For more ideas on where to go and what to see at Lake Tahoe and beyond, contact us at any time for true local advice and insight.

Top Day Trips in Reno and Lake Tahoe - from Incline Village, Nevada

1. Truckee River Rafting – Tahoe City to River Ranch

• Time: 20 minutes from Incline Village
• Highlights: A self-guided, five-mile float suitable for families and groups, ending at River Ranch for food and drinks.
• Tip: Make a reservation long before you go. It’s that popular!

2. Emerald Bay State Park – South Lake Tahoe, CA

• Drive: ~1 hour
• Highlights: Hike down to Vikingsholm Castle, paddle around Fannette Island, or enjoy the famous overlook views.
• Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and find parking.

3. Sierra Hot Springs – Sierraville, CA

• Drive: ~1 hour north
• Highlights: Natural geothermal pools surrounded by forest; clothing optional.
• Tip: Book a day-use pass in advance—weekends fill quickly.

4. Reno, Nevada – Urban arts, food & culture

• Drive: 45–50 minutes
• Things to Do: Explore the Riverwalk District, the Nevada Museum of Art, Animal Ark, and the National Automobile Museum.
• Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy at many of Reno’s public parks

5. Virginia City, NV – Old West Ghost Town

• Drive: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Highlights: Historic saloons, mine tours, old-time shops, and quirky events like the Outhouse Races.
• Tip: It’s a great place to shop for the holidays or special occasion.

6. Nevada City, CA – Gold Rush charm meets creative energy

• Drive: ~1 hour 30 minutes
• Highlights: Stroll cobblestone streets, browse local shops, and swim in Emerald Pools.
• Tip: Morning visits beat the crowds, especially at the river.

7. North Lake Tahoe Adventures – Closer to home

• Sand Harbor (NV): Swim, kayak, or photograph the turquoise water and giant granite boulders.
• Tahoe Rim Trail: Hike portions of this 165-mile loop for sweeping lake views (trailheads start from Tunnel Creek Café in Incline. near Tahoe City and Kings Beach).
• Tip: Great for alpine wildflowers and panoramic summit views – ideal for the upcoming Christmas card!

8. Sierraville & Downieville, CA – Hot springs & mountain biking

• Drive: 45–60 minutes
• Highlights: Soak in natural springs or try the famous Downieville Downhill ride.
• Tip: Reserve shuttles or passes in advance for biking or soaking.

9. Genoa, NV – Nevada’s oldest town

• Drive: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Highlights: Stroll historic Mormon Station Park, grab a drink at Nevada’s oldest saloon, and soak at David Walley’s Hot Springs.
• Tip: Check out a map to drive from Incline, down to Genoa then back up to the lake via Kingsbury Grade. The views of the Eastern Sierra are spectacular.

10. Yuba River State Park – Bridgeport Covered Bridge & swimming holes

• Drive: ~1 hour 45 minutes
• Highlights: Swim in emerald pools, hike Independence Trail, and don’t forget your picnic.
• Tip: Visit the longest single-span covered bridge in the U.S.

BONUS: If you’re looking for scenic drives, two classics under two hours are:

• Around-the-Lake Loop (US 89/NV 28/US 50): A 72-mile route circling Lake Tahoe with stops at viewpoints and lakeside towns.
• Mt. Rose Highway (NV 431): A breathtaking drive between Incline Village and Reno with overlooks and wildflower meadows.