Lake Tahoe is not just a winter wonderland—it transforms into a vibrant playground for outdoor enthusiasts during the summer months. Whether you're a mountain biking fanatic, an adrenaline junkie, or someone seeking breathtaking views, the Tahoe region offers something for everyone. Here's your guide to the best summer activities at Northstar, Heavenly, and Kirkwood Resorts.

Northstar California: Northern California’s Premier Bike Park

For mountain biking enthusiasts, Northstar California stands out as the largest bike park in Northern California, offering over 100 miles of trails. The park provides a variety of trails suited for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Lift-served trails, accessible via the Big Spring Gondola, Tahoe Zephyr Express, and Vista Express, ensure easy access to the mountain’s diverse routes.

Notable trails include the signature LiveWire, the first fully irrigated mountain bike trail, and Gypsy, known for its thrilling wooden features, including roller coasters. For those interested in electric biking, Northstar offers a dedicated climb trail and a free “Pedal Pass” for e-bikers.

Heavenly Mountain Resort: Epic Discovery Awaits

Heavenly Mountain Resort offers an exciting range of summer activities under its "Epic Discovery" program. A highlight is the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, a gravity-powered alpine coaster that winds through forested terrain and natural rock formations, providing exhilarating views of Lake Tahoe.

For those seeking more thrills, the Hot Shot Zip Line features a 1,000-foot descent, reaching speeds of 30-40 mph. Families can also enjoy the Red Tail Flyer Zip Line, a 100-foot-long line situated 15 feet off the ground, perfect for younger adventurers.

In addition, visitors can partake in gemstone panning, rock climbing, and hiking—all accessible via the scenic gondola ride.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort: Alpine Trails and Scenic Rides

Kirkwood Mountain Resort offers a more serene mountain biking experience with over 20 trails in the valley, catering to various skill levels. The resort's alpine trails provide stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, making for a picturesque ride.

For a more challenging ride, the Van Sickle Loop Mountain Bike Trail offers a three-mile route through alpine meadows and pine forests, perfect for riders of all levels. When visiting Kirkwood, you can also explore the nearby Markleeville, a charming town offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Scenic Sightseeing and Family-Friendly Activities

Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, the Tahoe region offers numerous opportunities for relaxation and sightseeing. Scenic gondola rides at both Heavenly and Northstar provide panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains—perfect for photography and leisurely exploration.

Families can enjoy gentle hikes, gemstone panning, and rock climbing at Heavenly, or explore the alpine meadows and wildflower trails at Kirkwood.

Explore the Towns of Lake Tahoe

After a day of outdoor adventures, take some time to explore the charming towns around Lake Tahoe, each offering its own unique experiences.

• Truckee: Just a short drive from Northstar, Truckee is a historic town known for its charming downtown, boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent dining options. Be sure to check out the Truckee River for scenic walks and relaxing spots. After a day of biking at Northstar, grab a delicious burger at 1882 Bar & Grill, a local favorite, for a satisfying meal.

• South Lake Tahoe: Situated near Heavenly, South Lake Tahoe is a bustling town filled with restaurants, casinos, and plenty of shops. Enjoy lakeside dining or take a stroll along the beach at Lake Tahoe. In the evenings, try your luck at one of the area’s casinos or enjoy live music at local bars. After a fun day at Heavenly, stop by Tipsy Putt for a round of mini-golf, where you can enjoy a beer and some tasty Tex-Mex to cap off your day.

• Markleeville: After your adventurous day at Kirkwood, head to Markleeville, a quiet town with a rich history, nestled in the Sierra Nevada. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy some local flavor. Be sure to visit Stonefly for a delicious meal—just keep in mind they don’t open until 4:30 p.m.
  
  

Planning Your Visit

• Northstar California: The bike park operates from mid-June through Labor Day, with lift-served trails available daily during this period.

• Heavenly Mountain Resort: Epic Discovery activities are typically available from mid-June through Labor Day, with gondola rides offering access to various attractions.

• Kirkwood Mountain Resort: Mountain biking trails are open on weekends from early July through August, with lift access available on weekends during this period.
  
  

Conclusion

Whether you're seeking thrilling mountain biking adventures, exhilarating zip line rides, or serene alpine views, the Lake Tahoe region has it all. From the extensive trails at Northstar to the scenic vistas at Heavenly and the tranquil rides at Kirkwood, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the best of Tahoe's summer offerings. And after a day of outdoor excitement, be sure to explore the nearby towns to fully experience all that Lake Tahoe has to offer.