Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its breathtaking views and a plethora of activities, it’s a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for a tranquil getaway, Incline Village has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top seven things to do in this charming locale.
1. Embrace the Great Outdoors at Sand Harbor State Park
One of the key attractions of Sand Harbor is its diverse range of recreational activities. Visitors can indulge in swimming in crystal-clear waters, kayaking, and scuba diving, particularly at Divers Cove, which is a favorite spot for both SCUBA divers and beachgoers.
For those interested in boating, the park provides two wave-protected double ramps with docks for easy launching. Additionally, the park is equipped with picnic areas, a visitor center that details the area’s history, and the Sand Point Nature Trail, a handicap-accessible trail with interpretive signs and breathtaking views.
The beach features amenities like picnic tables, public bathrooms, and paddleboard/kayak rentals, making it convenient for a full day of relaxation and exploration.
Sand Harbor is not just a summer destination; its beauty shines throughout the year. In the winter, the park’s smooth, polished rock formations and secluded beaches are gently topped with snow, offering a different kind of serene beauty.
Notably, the park hosts the annual Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival each summer, transforming it into an Elizabethan theater with performances set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe. This event has become a must-see for visitors, combining cultural enrichment with natural splendor.
2. Hit the Slopes at Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Diamond Peak Ski Resort in Incline Village, Lake Tahoe, offers a unique skiing experience that combines breathtaking views with a range of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
As of January 25, 2024, the resort reported a base depth of 26 inches and a summit depth of 40 inches, with 5 out of 7 lifts and 27 out of 30 runs open. The resort, known for its community-driven atmosphere and panoramic Tahoe views, spans 655 acres with 1,840 feet of vertical terrain. This terrain includes great groomers, exceptional tree skiing, and vistas of Lake Tahoe around every corner, making it a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Diamond Peak has recently made several upgrades to enhance the skiing experience. Notably, they have installed new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) access gates at major chairlifts, providing hands-free and touch-free convenience for pass and ticket holders.
This technology is expected to streamline the loading process and reduce wait times. Additionally, the resort has relocated its Village Terrain Park to the Spillway run, expanding groomed skiing options.
For young learners, a new magic carpet style surface lift has been introduced in the Child Ski & Ride Center. These improvements, along with the resort’s commitment to environmental sustainability as the only Lake Tahoe resort with STOKE Certified status, reinforce its reputation as a top choice for skiers and riders in the region.
3. Tee Off at Incline Village Golf Courses
Incline Village in Lake Tahoe offers two remarkable golf courses, each with its own unique character and challenges. The Championship Course, a classic 18-hole public golf course, was designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr. and features stunning lake views.
It was completely renovated in 2003 and has since received numerous accolades. In 2022, it ranked #17 on the GolfPass Golfers’ Choice lists for the best course in the U.S., #2 nationwide for conditions, and #3 for course layout.
It also consistently ranks high in Nevada and the Tahoe Area by GolfAdvisor and was recognized as “Best in State” from 2012 to 2015 by Golf Digest magazine. The course includes a driving range, chipping green, putting green, a fully stocked Golf Shop, electric golf carts equipped with Visage Golf GPS, and other amenities like snack bars and restaurants.
The course typically operates from mid-May through mid-October, with specific green fees and tee time policies.
4. Explore the Trails on Two Wheels
Exploring the trails on two wheels in Incline Village offers a variety of experiences for cyclists of all levels. The Incline Village Bike Path provides several paved trails alongside local roads, immersing riders in the scenic beauty of the area.
Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is known for its picturesque environment and affluent community. For more adventurous cyclists, the Flume Trail is a popular choice. This steep singletrack trail winds through granite cliffs, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. The trail is renowned for its natural beauty and challenging terrain, making it a must-do for mountain biking enthusiasts.
For those looking to combine biking with other outdoor activities, the Spooner Lake Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, located near the intersection of Highway 50 and Highway 28, offers 50 miles of multi-use trails. This includes a section of the Tahoe Rim Trail and the Flume Trail.
The park also features cabin and backcountry camping, with a new visitor center and amphitheater providing interpretive programs. In addition to the Flume Trail, the Tahoe East Shore Trail is another attractive option.
This multi-use paved path stretches for three miles along the shore of Lake Tahoe, allowing for accessible hiking and biking with stunning lakeside views. Bike rentals and shuttle services are available in the area to facilitate access to these trails.
5. Take a Scenic Cruise on Lake Tahoe
Taking a scenic cruise on Lake Tahoe from Incline Village is a must-do for visitors and residents alike, offering a unique perspective of the stunning landscape surrounding the lake. One of the most renowned operators, Tahoe Cruises, has been providing extraordinary experiences on Lake Tahoe since 1979.
They offer daily cruises aboard the Safari Rose & The Spirit of Tahoe, including the popular Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay. These cruises have been consistently voted the best on Lake Tahoe for the past six years, including 2023.
The cruises are designed to showcase the beauty of Lake Tahoe, with options for everyone, whether it’s a casual day cruise or a more elegant evening excursion complete with dining, drinks, and breathtaking views.
Lake Tahoe Sightseeing Tours & Cruises in South Lake Tahoe also offers a diverse array of experiences on the lake. Whether guests prefer dining and dancing on a lunch or dinner cruise aboard the Bleu Wave, or seeking adventure in a helicopter or hot air balloon, there’s something for everyone.
These tours provide an excellent way to explore the crystal-clear depths of Lake Tahoe and its unique scenery, including the abundant wildlife, Vikingsholm castle, and Eagle Falls. The combination of natural beauty and leisurely exploration makes these cruises a top choice for experiencing the essence of Lake Tahoe.
6. Indulge in Local Cuisine
Incline Village, known for its picturesque setting and vibrant dining scene, offers a wide array of culinary experiences, catering to diverse palates and preferences. A recent addition to this eclectic mix is Nevada Jane, a new restaurant that stands out for its creative menu and late-night dining options. The establishment, which was formerly known as Gus’s and served barbecue cuisine, has transformed under the new ownership of Jonas and Nellie Saia.
They have introduced a variety of new items, including chicken and waffles, queso birria tacos, barria sliders dip, and a brisket burger. The restaurant also prides itself on its cocktail kitchen, where all bar ingredients, mixers, and garnishes are made in-house, creating a unique menu based on their cocktails.
Nevada Jane’s expansive floor plan and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal spot for gatherings, and it is open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, offering a much-needed late-night dining option in the area.
Another noteworthy addition to Incline Village’s culinary landscape is Mehfil Indian Bistro, the only restaurant in the area to offer Indian-style cuisine. Replacing the Indus, which served a mix of Chinese, Indian, and Vietnamese cuisines, Mehfil has quickly become a popular spot since its opening, with business booming thanks to its focused and high-quality menu.
7. Relax and Rejuvenate at a Spa
In Incline Village, visitors and locals looking to relax and rejuvenate can indulge in a variety of spa experiences. The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, the only full-service waterfront resort in North Lake Tahoe, offers a unique spa experience at the Stillwater Spa & Salon.
The spa recently introduced a new treatment menu focusing on the guest’s overall wellness intentions. This innovative approach includes holistic healing practices like aromatherapy and Ayurveda paired with modern techniques.
Treatments are customized to match guests’ wellness goals, whether seeking calm, balance, immunity boost, renewal, love, or unity. The spa’s offerings include various massages, such as the “Balancing” massage that uses Ayurveda dosha balancing techniques with warm herbal-infused oil, and the “Calm” intention massage designed with comforting aromatherapy. Additional services like deep tissue muscle renewal or CBD oil application can enhance each massage, providing a tailored spa experience.
A Destination with Something for Everyone
Every trip to Incline Village unfolds into a journey brimming with fresh experiences and enduring memories. This charming village, nestled by Lake Tahoe, offers a myriad of possibilities, from thrilling adventures to serene retreats, or simply a chance to bask in its natural beauty. Its ease of navigation adds to its allure, making every exploration effortless and enjoyable.
If you’re contemplating making this picturesque locale your home, rest assured that the reliable team of movers in Incline Village, NV, will ensure a seamless transition. Incline Village is not just a destination but a call to return, again and again, promising experiences that will touch your heart and refresh your soul.
So, gather your belongings, point your compass towards Incline Village, and embark on an adventure that’s bound to be unforgettable.
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