Sterling Lake Campground

Bikers will find Tahoe to be a mountain biking paradise, with rough roads and unforgettable views. The Downieville ranger district in particular is a dream come true. Gorp summarized some of the best trails in the forest, like the Butcher Ranch trail, a wildflower-blooming trail running along Pauley Creek. For a full list of trails, look here .

There are hundreds of lakes and many reservoirs within this forest, making motorized and non-motorized boating a go-to activity. Everything from waterskiing to SUPping is allowed here, so come prepared for fun times in the water!

There are huge reservoirs, alpine lakes, rushing rivers, small pools, and everything in between, making this an excellent place for anglers. In fact, this is the most popular national forest in California for fishing! Here you will find all types of trout, particularly in the North Fork of the American Wild River, a designated wild trout stream. Don’t let the seasons limit you, either, you can go ice fishing in the winter! There’s a solid guide on what you can find and when, right here .

Hikers searching for incredible views won’t leave disappointed: there are over 500 miles of trails, including the PCT. You can discover hidden lakes and waterfalls, and look out over the mountains from a lookout point. The Loch Leven Lakes Trail is a wonderful family-friendly hike to take your dog and go for a refreshing swim. You can find more trails here .

If you have a horse, bring that fella over to these trails , and if you don’t, there are many local outfitters who can set you up with a horse friend.

Kayakers and canoers have plenty of opportunities to row their little boats in the lakes, reservoirs, and streams of this national forest. Whitewater kayaking the north fork of the American River is popular, but those looking for a relaxing vacation should definitely try Jackson Meadow reservoir, Boca reservoir, or any of the other reservoirs.

Nothing beats that fresh mountain air blowing through your hair! Boca Reservoir, Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Stampede Reservoir, and Bowman Lake are some of your options to go windsurfing. With placid and expansive waters, this is the perfect way to cool off and have a ton of fun. Make sure to check with a ranger to see what the current water levels are like.

Looking to take a spin in your off highway vehicle? The Little Truckee Summit trail has gentle slopes and Prosser Hill is an easily accessible riding area, slightly challenging, but worth it due to the views from the top of the hill. The Foresthill area has a 100-mile trail system worth checking out, and of course, there’s always the famous Rubicon trail in South Lake Tahoe.

There isn’t much information about climbing, but Donner Summer has traditional and sport climbing areas to challenge all skill levels, and Granite Chief Wilderness and Bowman Lake are known for having climbing. Old Man Mountain , a mini Half Dome, has 360 degree views, but doesn’t see too many visitors, which means you’ll have that thing all to yourself. You can find a map of recommend peaks to climb here .

What better way to enjoy the wintertime than to go to Tahoe? Tahoe National Forest offers backcountry wilderness for you to explore, instead of heading to the traditional areas that get crowded during the season. There are many trails for snowmobiling in the Foresthill area and by Highway 89. You can also go xc skiing and snowshoeing on these ungroomed trails , or head to the Royal Gorge, one hell of a Nordic resort: flawless trails, gourmet meals at a backcountry lodge, four lifts, and the best rental equipment. Sign us up!

There’s no shortage of swimming here: you’re welcome to splash in lakes, reservoirs, streams, rivers, and swimming holes under waterfalls! The Mushroom Hole is an excellent swimming hole that you jump right into. Check out a list of places to swim.

If motor boats aren’t your thing, step up your game with a whitewater trip. The Yuba River and the American River offer amazing whitewater adventures, with rapids ranging from class II to V (holy smokes!).

Wildlife watchers won’t be disappointed with Tahoe National Forest. The wetland areas are great places for birding, especially during the spring and fall. Species include: white faced ibis, sandhill cranes, American bitterns, black crowned night herons, Canada geese, different ducks, songbirds, bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks, prairie falcons and kestrels. There are typical forest dwellers like bears, mountain lions, raccoons, squirrels, etc. You can learn more about the wildlife on a nature trail-- Rock Creek, Sierra Discovery, and Glacier Meadow are all interpretive trails.