Backcountry Tours in Lake Tahoe
Just about any time of year, you can explore the beautiful backcountry of the Lake Tahoe area. And stunning it is! Wandering through Tahoe’s backcountry lets you get a look at the scenery most visitors don’t have a chance to experience and there are a number of fun ways to do it. Several outfitters in the area offer a variety of pre-planned tours or will even customize tours to fit your needs or desires, whether you’re hoping for the ultimate adventure or a romantic trip for you and that special person.
Snowmobile Tours
In the winter, getting around the backcountry is best accomplished on snowmobile. Most companies that run snowmobile tours can accommodate families as well as those who’ve never before driven such a vehicle. Tours can include scenic trail tours that take place on groomed trails (best for the beginner) or wonderful off-the-beaten-track adventures that allow travelers to go deep into the Sierra Nevada for a breathtaking backcountry experience. These tours can last several hours or even a few days, if desired. You may even be able to book a moonlight tour with some outfitters and they’ll provide a romantic dinner.
ATV Tours
When the snow is all gone, it’s time to break out the all-terrain vehicles. Quads are a great way to explore the countryside around Lake Tahoe and are easy to learn to ride with a little advanced instruction. Guides make sure you’re safe and abide by the rules.
Like snowmobiling, quad riders can stick to groomed trails, like the Rubicon Trail, very popular with ATV tour companies, taking riders to Observation Point for great views of the area. Other riders might opt for a true off-road backcountry experience in the high desert. Indeed, Tahoe’s Great Basin is the highest desert in the country. Explore the Pine Nut Mountains and look out for the area’s wonderful wild ponies, long a fixture in this area.
Sand Buggy Tours
Some outfitters also allow guests to explore the picturesque Pine Nut Mountains via sand buggy. These fun vehicles are a blast to drive and many can accommodate two people, making them ideal for couples or families with kids. No experience is necessary as it’s easy to learn to drive the buggies safely.
Jeep or Hummer
Tours
Want someone else to do the driving? Not sure you want
to take on the challenge of the mountains? Then consider a Jeep or Hummer
tour that includes the services of an experienced driver and guide. Ideal
for larger parties, most Jeep or Hummer tours can accommodate anywhere from
two to eight passengers and it’s a great way to see the Lake Tahoe Basin and
the areas surrounding it. Most Jeep and Hummer tours last two to three hours
and travel up the Rubicon Trail or through the Pine Nut Mountains.
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