Find alpine bliss in a Lake Tahoe winter cabin
Bluebird days and cozy nights await you.
The drive to Lake Tahoe feels almost like riding a ski lift: as you climb higher, your heart starts to race and the scenery unfolds. Arid desert gives way to towering granite peaks covered in snow, roaring rivers, and pine forests. And long before you reach your destination, you know that you’re in for something special.
Unlike many destinations, Lake Tahoe has no “off season.” Winter at Lake Tahoe is a rite of passage for many snow-lovers from California and beyond. The lake is surrounded by 14 ski areas, creating one of the largest terrains for snowboarding and skiing in the U.S. But what if you’re not sure where to book your Lake Tahoe winter cabin? The towns on the shores of Big Blue, as locals call it, offer everything from family-friendly vibes to a culture of young outdoor adventurers.
No matter where you book your Lake Tahoe cabin, you’re sure to experience what makes this place so special: sunny bluebird days and miles of fresh powder to explore, from high-end resorts to the backcountry.
This region on the northernmost shores of the lake encompasses the California and Nevada sides, and is peppered with many desirable communities like Kings Beach, Incline Village, and Carnelian Bay. If you’re looking for a more peaceful visit, a North Lake Tahoe cabin in one of these family-friendly towns might be for you. North Lake Tahoe is also home to Squaw Valley, California’s largest ski resort. With 6,000 skiable acres and a wide variety of terrain ranging from beginner to expert, everyone in your crew can enjoy their time on the slopes. Afterward, you enjoy your après ski at one of North Lake Tahoe’s many fine dining establishments.
Unlike its northerly twin, South Lake Tahoe is a standalone city on the California side of the lake. With a number of breweries, casinos, and other nightlife options, our South Lake Tahoe cabins attract adventure-seekers—whether that’s with a fun night with friends or an exhilarating run on the slopes of Heavenly Mountain Resort. Try cross-country skiing across the snow-covered shores of the lake, or soak your muscles at Grover Hot Springs State Park, located just 45 minutes away.
If the mountains are calling you, consider booking your Lake Tahoe winter cabin in Truckee. This town is set back from the shores of the lake—though only 20 minutes away—on the edge of Tahoe National Forest, where snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails meander past icy lakes and roaring rivers. The area is home to NorthStar Resort, a luxurious ski resort with an adrenaline-inducing superpipe designed by Shaun White. Truckee itself is more walkable than South Lake Tahoe, and its historic downtown area is beyond picturesque in the snowy evenings.
Looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot for your Lake Tahoe winter cabin? Consider a cozy home nestled near the shores of Donner Lake. Though it’s smaller than nearby Lake Tahoe, winters at Donner Lake offer icy blue water and snow-covered pines, with a more secluded feel. After a day exploring the powder, you can enjoy a hot meal at Jax on the Tracks, a restored vintage 1940s diner, or drink a well-earned and award-winning beer from 5050 Brewing Co.
If you’re coming to Lake Tahoe to enjoy its great access to snowsports, December through March is an ideal time to visit. During these months, the snow is still fresh and perfect for adventuring—though be aware that resorts like Heavenly and NorthStar will be packed over the holidays.
Yes! Your pup can certainly join in your next adventure to Big Blue. Most of the towns and communities around Lake Tahoe are known for being dog-friendly—in the summers, your pup can even swim in the lake with you. Check out our dog-friendly Lake Tahoe cabins today.
