Choose Your Own Adventure at the Epicenter of Tahoe

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Palisades Tahoe offers breathtaking alpine experiences just a short drive from Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, visiting Palisades Tahoe, the host of the 1960 Winter Games, has something for every type of day trip in Tahoe. Our Lake Tahoe summer adventure guide contains two carefully crafted itineraries to help you make the most of your visit to our mountain. Pro tip: If you are visiting our mountain for longer, check out our guide for multiple days in Tahoe.

Photo Challenge

Before diving into your chosen adventure, don’t miss the chance to capture all three sets of rings scattered throughout Palisades Tahoe. You’ll find the first set as you enter Olympic Valley, the second by the Funitel, and the third up at High Camp. It’s the perfect photo scavenger hunt to commemorate your visit to Palisades Tahoe.

Option 1: The Relaxed Mountain Experience

Morning: Ascent to High Camp

Perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a leisurely mountain day

Start your day by taking the scenic Aerial Tram up to High Camp at 8,200 feet above sea level. The journey itself is an experience, offering panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks. Please note: the Aerial Tram opens for daily summer operations on June 20th.

Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the Tram, which is a 10-minute ride that departs every half-hour. 25/26 Ikon Pass holders ride free, and a $5 food voucher is included for each purchase of a Summer Sightseeing Lift Ticket. Lodging guests at The Village at Palisades Tahoe will receive one free Aerial Tram ticket with their reservation to pick up at check-in. Additional tickets for lodging guests are available for 30% off at the front desk.

Mid-Morning: Join a FREE Guided Naturalist Walk (11:00 AM)

Enhance your mountain knowledge with one of the complimentary guided naturalist walks led by knowledgeable Mountain Hosts. These low-impact hikes depart from the High Camp deck at 11:00 AM or 1:30 PM and offer fascinating insights into the local flora, fauna, and ecosystem. It’s an excellent way to learn about the area’s natural history while enjoying a leisurely stroll through alpine terrain.

Midday: High-Altitude Activities

Experience something truly special by visiting the roller skating rink at 8,200 feet – one of the most unique offerings in our Lake Tahoe summer adventure guide. Roller Skating is FREE. Bring your own roller skates or enjoy rentals, available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Helmets are available, and all persons under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet while using the roller rink. The combination of mountain views and skating at a high elevation creates an unforgettable experience.

If roller skating isn’t your style, try your hand at disc golf among the wildflowers or explore the various hiking trails that branch out from High Camp, perfect for wildflower viewing during the summer months.

Lunch: High Camp BBQ

Refuel at High Camp BBQ, a local favorite that offers a lively dining experience. While savoring their signature ribeye Philly cheesesteak or smoky pastrami, you’ll enjoy sweeping mountain views that make every bite more memorable.

Afternoon: Mountain Culture

Take a fascinating trip back in time to 1960 Winter Games. The Olympic Museum showcases authentic Team USA uniforms, news articles, and video presentations. The museum also features gear from more recent champions including Julia Mancuso, Travis Ganong, Marco Sullivan, and Nate Holland. We are proud of our heritage and to be one of the frontrunner mountains training the future champions . As one of the few mountains in the nation to currently have a professional athlete team, read up on our pro athlete team and their continuation of our legacy.

Take time to visit the Washoe Display, open daily at High Camp. This educational experience offers valuable insights into the past and present of the Washoe Tribe through artifacts and language transcripts. If you’re visiting on June 27, July 18, August 23, September 26, or October 10th, consider registering for a Washoe Cultural Talk – these inspiring presentations cover topics ranging from local wildlife to the significance of the resort’s name change.

Evening: Village Exploration and Après

Descend back to The Village at Palisades Tahoe and explore the base area’s collection of shops and restaurants. Whether you need additional sunscreen or want to browse for mountain gear and souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of options.

Cap off your relaxed day at Rocker’s outdoor deck, a lively spot for an après. This popular spot offers rotating craft beers on tap, wines from California and beyond, and refreshing signature cocktails. While Rocker is famous for its cheesy nachos, the summer menu also features excellent shrimp tacos, steak frites, harvest bowls, and fresh Panzanella.

Option 2: The Extreme Adventure Experience

Ideal for experienced hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a physical challenge

Morning: Shirley Canyon Preparation

Start your day with a stop at Little Bear Café, for some of the best sandwiches in the Tahoe area. Make sure to pack extra water and wear sturdy hiking boots, as you’re about to embark on one of the area’s most challenging trails.

Morning to Afternoon: Shirley Canyon Hike

The Shirley Canyon trail is a strenuous but incredibly rewarding hike that showcases some of the Sierra Nevada’s most spectacular scenery. Although the distance seems short, the steep vertical will challenge even the most fit hikers. During late spring and early summer, you’ll be treated to cascading waterfalls and rushing creeks that make the challenging ascent even more worthwhile. The trail rewards your efforts with increasingly dramatic views as you climb higher into the alpine environment. Once you make it to Shirley Lake, take a dip to cool off or relax on a rock.

Hikers can take this route out and back or hike a bit further to the Aerial Tram and take the Tram back to the base area. This is approximately 2 miles to Shirley Lake and another 2 miles to High Camp, totaling an elevation gain of 2,000 feet of elevation. Please note: the Aerial Tram opens for daily summer operations on June 20th.

Important Notes:

• You can take the Tram back from High Camp, on a 30-minute schedule.
• To access the trailhead, park in the main Palisades Tahoe parking lot and walk to the end of Shirley Canyon Road. There are a large sign and trail map at the trailhead.
• Use the Palisades Tahoe App’s GPS feature to access trail maps and ensure you stay on course.
• Check weather conditions beforehand and avoid hiking during thunderstorm forecasts.
• Bring more water than you think you’ll need with the elevation gain.

Afternoon: Mountain Culture

Take a fascinating trip back in time to 1960 Winter Games. The Olympic Museum showcases authentic Team USA uniforms, news articles, and video presentations. The museum also features gear from more recent champions including Julia Mancuso, Travis Ganong, Marco Sullivan, and Nate Holland. We are proud of our heritage and to be one of the frontrunner mountains training the future champions . As one of the few mountains in the nation to currently have a professional athlete team, read up on our pro athlete team and their continuation of our legacy.

Take time to visit the Washoe Display, open daily at High Camp. This educational experience offers valuable insights into the past and present of the Washoe Tribe through artifacts and language transcripts. If you’re visiting on June 27, July 18, August 23, September 26, or October 10th, consider registering for a Washoe Cultural Talk – these inspiring presentations cover topics ranging from local wildlife to the significance of the resort’s name change.

Evening: Village Exploration and Après

Descend back to The Village at Palisades Tahoe and explore the base area’s collection of shops and restaurants. Whether you need additional sunscreen or want to browse for mountain gear and souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of options.

Cap off your relaxed day at Rocker’s outdoor deck, a lively spot for an après. This popular spot offers rotating craft beers on tap, wines from California and beyond, and refreshing signature cocktails. Rocker is infamous for its cheesy, delicious nachos, but the summer menu also boasts shrimp tacos, Panzanella, harvest bowls, and more.

Free Weekly Events

Depending on what day of the week you visit, you could experience anything from free, live bluegrass music, free yoga, bingo, or a live alphorn performance. With such a wide range of events, many visitors want the chance to experience all that Palisades Tahoe has to offer. 

Day of Week	Event	Description	Time
Tuesday	Bluesdays Concert Series	The Village comes alive every Tuesday night with top blues artists from around the country. Enjoy free live music, outdoor bar service, and dining from local restaurants.	6 pm-8:30 pm
Wednesday	First Street Yoga	Unwind midweek with our free outdoor yoga series held every Wednesday in The Village. Taught by a rotating lineup of talented local instructors, these evening sessions offer a rejuvenating experience set against the stunning mountain backdrop.	5 pm – 6 pm
Select Thursdays	The Great Bingo Revival	Join the legendary Rusty Reams for high-energy, family-friendly bingo nights. With new restaurant venues each week, free-to-play rounds, and a chance to win great prizes, it’s the most lively way to spend a summer. Dates: July 17, 24, 31; August 7, 14, 21	5 pm-6 pm
Select Fridays	SunSets Live Music Series	Celebrate summer Fridays with live music under the open sky. The SunSets series brings a rotating lineup of local favorites to The Village for relaxing, high-vibe evenings filled with music, fresh mountain air, and community energy. Dates: July 11, 28, 25; August 1, 8, 22	5 pm-7 pm

Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Considerations: The Aerial Tram opens daily starting June 20th. Weather conditions can affect tram operations, so always check current conditions before your visit.

Weather Awareness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check forecasts using the Palisades Tahoe App and be prepared to adjust plans if thunderstorms are predicted, especially for the extreme hiking option.

What to Bring: Regardless of which itinerary you choose, pack layers, sunscreen, water, and a camera for those Olympic Rings photos. For the extreme option, add extra water, sturdy hiking boots, and high-energy snacks.