Fall Day Tripping: Explore Lake Tahoe from Basecamp Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort

Part 1: Your West Shore Guide to Scenic Adventures

At Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort, fall is all about kicking back, diving into adventure, and day-tripping your way through Lake Tahoe’s best!

Imagine waking up to panoramic lake views, sipping your morning coffee on the sandy beach, and then launching into one of these unforgettable day trips. This is where nature’s playground is just outside your door. It’s all here, at our North Lake Tahoe beach resort—the ideal basecamp where your next Day Tripping adventure is never too far.

This fall, explore with less crowds, great weather and the magic of those most serene days. Whether you’re hitting the trails, exploring the west shore, or cruising down scenic roads, here is Part 1 of our Day Tripping Guide to Lake Tahoe–all from Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort.  

Hike or Bike to Page Meadows

Start with a warm up of shear meadow bliss. Here, you’ll discover your inner explorer, or maybe just your next Instagram post, with this short 25-minute hop to Page Meadows on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Walk, hike, bike or just stretch your legs and take in the fall colors. The golden aspens will have you asking, “Did I just walk into a postcard?” This 3.3 mile Page Meadows loop trail is where you can simply wander, bring a picnic, and relax in the meadow. Want more? It’s all around you. Jump on an adjoining trail for more distance and exploration. 

Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm and Eagle Falls

A historic mansion, a waterfall, huge granite peaks, famed views of Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe, and so much more! This location is magic in all directions, and fall is the time to go. Summer crowds make parking very difficult, but in the fall, if you leave early and on a weekday (and with a bit of patience), you will find parking space. Is it worth the effort? You bet! And, so that you know, one visit is never enough. While there, be sure to check out these significant landmarks: Vikingsholm Castle: Find the paved path and follow it to the lake, where you will find a Scandinavian-style mansion complete with fascinating stories and glimpses into early 20th-century travel to Lake Tahoe.  Tours are open for the season through 9/30/24 and begin at 10:30 to 4 pm. Purchase tour tickets at the visitor center. 

Eagle Falls: Follow the trail to the visitors center and continue up for half a mile or so to see the falls. Although smaller than in spring and summer, you will experience the vastness and power that can topple off of the mountains above. You can also cross over the bridge and take a 1.6 mile hike on the Rubicon Trail to the South, which takes you to a Vista point and more parking on HWY 89. 

Upper Eagle Falls and Desolation Wilderness: If you want more, cross HWY 89 and follow the falls up into Desolation Wilderness on the Eagle Falls Vista Loop. Here, if you like, you can go for miles and miles. Consult your All Trails for more information on trails and destinations. This is the wilderness and requires day permits, which you can obtain on trails. Always carry water, wear layers and good hiking shoes, and watch for changing conditions!

Bike the Truckee River Trail

Grab your bike or e-bike (or rent one) and hit the Truckee River Trail. This 10-mile, out-and-back river trail between Tahoe City and Olympic Valley winds you through beautiful fall scenery, forests, and flowing water. If this doesn’t make you fall in love with biking again, we don’t know what will. The trail is paved, almost flat, and oh-so scenic, which means it’s great for everyone! You might even catch a peak at an otter or two. And don’t forget to stop at River Ranch Lodge for a mid-ride snack. Park at the Tahoe City Transit Center just up HWY 89 at the Y, cross the river, and you’ll be on your way.

E-Bike to Barker Pass

Up for a bit more adventure? Try our favorite e-bike ride cruising up Barker Pass Road. This journey begins with a leisurely ride through Blackwood Canyon, where you’ll feel like you’re riding through an autumn movie set. Breathtaking any time of year, but the aspens and golden hues in fall will make you want to ride forever. The road is very quiet, but watch for the occasional sightseer in car or on bike.  You may ask a wandering soul if they have seen the gnome trail for an extra excursion.

The road starts just past Sunnyside on the West Shore. Look for the Blackwood Canyon sign. Turn right and begin exploring up to the Barker Pass summit, which also provides access to several hiking and some more (technical) biking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail. 

At the top, take a deep breath, snap a photo, and enjoy the views that make all your e-bike “hard work” worth it. Optional Hike: After your ride, stretch your legs with a short hike along the Meadows Trail off of Barker Pass Road. This is where the true magic happens—endless views of the mountains and Lake Tahoe. Pack a thermos of something warm for the top. You’ll thank us when you’re sipping hot cocoa while taking in the stunning vistas.

Why Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort Is Your Basecamp for Epic Day-Tripping Adventures

In the fall, MLRTahoe isn’t just a Lake Tahoe hotel—it’s your gateway to the best that Lake Tahoe has to offer. From the vibrant autumn hikes to scenic drives and trailside serenity, you’ll experience the adventure and beauty of North Lake Tahoe right from the comfort of your North Lake Tahoe lakeshore resort basecamp at Mourelatos. 

And, after a day of adventure, you can return to the cozy comfort of our resort on the lake to unwind by our fire pits or take in a serene sunset over the lake. Simply put, there’s no better basecamp for your fall exploration than Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort.

So what are you waiting for? Pack those hiking boots, hop on a bike, and get ready to experience Lake Tahoe’s fall magic—MLRTahoe style!