If you’re looking for things to do in Lake Tahoe in September, look no further than El Dorado Wine Country and Hope Valley. You’ll find fewer crowds and mid-week pricing at the best Tahoe spots. And you can get up close and personal with the local wildlife and experience the majesty of the fall season at the El Dorado Ski Resort. So, get out there and enjoy the fall colors, the crisp mountain air, and the beautiful landscapes of Northern California!
El Dorado Wine Country
Whether you visit El Dorado Wine Country in September or not, you’ll find it a beautiful destination to enjoy the harvest season. This region’s elevations of 1,200 to 3500 feet are ideal for grape growing and make for perfect ripening conditions. The intense sunshine and cool winters help create the distinctive taste and texture of Lava Cap. Here’s what to expect:
First of all, this region is relatively unknown, so you can expect a truly exciting journey. The wineries here draw inspiration from more than just the skills of winemaking. The Sierra landscape, vibrant agriculture, and true grit culture help create a unique winemaking experience. And there’s no better way to celebrate than to celebrate this unique region with friends and family. You can even save money by purchasing your tickets ahead of time.
The region’s elevation also helps keep temperatures in check. As a result, the region’s ambient air temperature stays at least ten degrees cooler than the Central Valley on average. The higher elevation also limits extreme heat spikes. The region also enjoys many fall festivals and events. This fall, thousands of locals and visitors will visit El Dorado Wine Country and enjoy the many wineries. So, come on a fall weekend to enjoy this spectacular region.
Hope Valley in Alpine County
I first visited Hope Valley in Alpine County in September. It had been closed for several years due to the threat of development. The town grew up on the Pony Express and Emigrant Trail, and is home to several historic western towns. There are snowy peaks, verdant river valleys, natural hot springs, and high desert chaparral. Among its assets are no traffic lights, no commercial development, and hundreds of miles of cross-country ski trails. Hope Valley also claims to be Nevada’s first permanent settlement.
You can begin your hike in the high country by heading west. The West Fork Carson River begins in Hope Valley, 20 miles northeast of Gardnerville. Hikers can also explore the valley on foot on one of the two lakes, Scotts Lake and Crater Lake, with trails that stretch over three and 2.5 miles, and ascend to the summit of Stevens Peak. The Scotts Lake trail begins at the Blue Lakes Road turnoff south of Hope Valley.
The southern end of Hope Valley is home to Ebbetts Pass, a national scenic byway that crosses through the Sierra Nevada mountains. The aspen trees along the East Carson River and Kinney Creek are especially vibrant in September. Stopping here for a picnic and a brisk walk is a treat! Although Highway 4 is steep, it is less crowded than Highway 88. It is also a great way to see fall colors.
El Dorado Ski Resort
The Caldor Fire ripped through the Sierra Nevada during late August, forcing a closure at the Sierra-at-Tahoe ski resort. The fire has burned nearly four and a half miles, and is still a factor in the resort’s status. The Caldor has destroyed a maintenance shop, destroyed chairlift infrastructure, and killed countless trees. The ski resort operates under a special use permit in the El Dorado National Forest. In addition to affecting the ski resort, the fire forced the closure of the West Bowl Express ski area this winter.
During the fall, the fire has burned over two hundred and twenty-nine acres in El Dorado County. The fire has not expanded in acreage since today. However, it has been reducing evacuation orders in El Dorado County. The Caldor fire has reached 70% containment and more evacuation orders have been lowered. However, it still remains dangerous to travel around the area. You may consider staying at a hotel or motel in a nearby area until the fire has been contained.
The Grizzly Flats area is expected to reopen Friday at 5 p.m. The area had been closed since the August 16 fire, but initial repopulation took place last weekend. The US Forest Service has downgraded the total acreage burned in the fire and reported containment at seventy-one percent. The Sheriff’s Office is hopeful to issue evacuation passes to property owners soon.
Safari Rose Sightseeing & Sunset Cruises
If you want to enjoy the best of Tahoe’s natural landscapes and experience the unique experience of sunset cruises, you may want to check out the safari rose sightseeing and dinner cruise. The Safari Rose is a classic three-deck motor yacht with a sun deck and six bathrooms. The trip also includes an narrated 3-hour BBQ on the Bay cruise. Guests can sit back and enjoy the scenery while listening to the driver’s commentary.
The safari rose is owned by Tahoe Cruises and sails out of Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe. The safari-themed 80-foot motor yacht was originally built in 1959 for the 3M Corporation. Aside from its classic elegance and luxurious interior, it features a fully equipped bar and heated salon. The Safari Rose offers daily tours, weddings, and private functions. The boat also has a full stereo system so everyone can enjoy a meal or listen to music.
The Safari Rose is the largest yacht on Lake Tahoe, with a length of 80 feet and a width of 20 feet. The Safari Rose boasts six bathrooms, a salon with a fireplace, a full bar, and a dining area. Onboard, there is an ice-cream parlor, a dining room, and a full bar for all your beverage and liquor needs. Guests can also enjoy half-priced drinks throughout the trip.
Emerald Bay State Park
Autumn in Emerald Bay State Park is beautiful, with the golden trees and a crisp climate. The early summer months are mild, with average high temperatures of 23oC (68oF) and low temperatures of 3oC (37oF). The days are usually sunny, but the weather can become cool and damp later in the season. The possibility of snowfall increases as the fall season turns to winter. As temperatures drop below freezing, sunny days become rarer and precipitation increases.
For breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, hike up Inspiration Point, a paved walkway 600 feet above the water. Enjoy the breathtaking views from this popular hiking destination. Although it can get busy in the summer, restrooms are located at this location. You can hike or bike along many great hiking trails in South Lake Tahoe. If you’re traveling with children, you can enjoy a picnic lunch at Inspiration Point. The park offers restrooms at the top, and there are paved pathways for strollers to walk in.
A visit to Emerald Bay State Park is a great way to spend the day. The park is home to several unique attractions. Fansette Island is a must for geologists, as the island is home to evidence of glacial activity. You’ll also find the Vikingsholm summer home, which is one of the most stunning examples of Scandinavian architecture in the country. The materials used to build it came from the surrounding area. Tickets to the Vikingsholm tour cost $10 for adults, and $8 for children ages seven and older.
Tallac Historic Site
Visit the Tallac Historic Site in Lake Tahoe in September to experience its two historic homes, tours, events, and costumed interpreters. You can also visit the historic town of Tahoe City, and the surrounding area. Located on the shore of Lake Tahoe, this site was built in 1870. It is open daily from 9am until 5pm. The site is well worth a visit no matter what time of year you visit.
Visit the Tallac Historic Site in Lake Tahoe in September for a glimpse into the area’s rich and famous past. This is the base of the lake, where many wealthy entrepreneurs sought a retreat from the bustling city. The site preserves the estates of three prominent families. Among them is the owner of the Valhalla house. This is an interesting glimpse into the area’s past. There’s no admission charge, so you can take your time and learn more about the town’s history.
While you’re at the site, consider taking part in the interpretive programs and tours offered by the park. In the summer, you can spend the entire day exploring the site, from the gardens to the outdoor museum exhibit buildings. If you have time, you can plan a picnic on Kiva Beach or a nice afternoon at the shores. The site is open on Thursdays and Sundays, but it’s better to visit in the afternoon to see the town’s most interesting sights.
