Ultimate Lake Tahoe self-guided driving tour

This tour of Lake Tahoe begins in Stateline on the southern shore. From there, you'll make an easy clockwise loop around the lake. You’ll learn about the heated debate between California and Nevada over who technically owns the lake and visit the wild summer home of a man who insisted people called his cabin the Vatican.

If you’re in the mood for a waterfall, stop by the Eagle Falls trailhead to see the only waterfall which flows into the lake. Then, hear the spooky tale of how Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette, is supposedly haunted!

As you continue, fill you in on the Washoe tribe, who lived here long before any European explorers put it on a map.

Hankering for a white sand beach? That’s up next at Meeks Bay, a perfect spot to catch some sun. When you’ve had enough of that, get the scoop on a presidential visit to the lake and famous residents who occupy the houses along the shore, and turn back the clock to learn about the lake’s origins.

Pass by the Cal Neva casino next, which straddles the border between California and Nevada and was once owned by Frank Sinatra! As you pass by a few more stunning estates, identify some of the area’s wildlife and point you to the Secret Cove, a perfect spot for those looking for some secluded serenity.

Finally, you'll visit a 300-foot-high vista point for that perfect photo op and end up by Cave Rock, a remnant of the lake’s most ancient history.