Are you a connoisseur of both nature and nightlife? On this versatile trip you’ll experience the mountain paradise of Lake Tahoe before digging in to hip and energetic Reno.. Uniquely located on the border of California and Nevada and nestled in the mountainous landscape of the Sierras, this high alpine lake is a destination for everyone from active hikers to holiday seekers. Find your Tahoe niche whether it’s by hiking the picturesque trails, kayaking on the sparkling lake, or unwinding at the blackjack tables in town.

After two nights by the lake, you’ll visit the historic mining town of Virginia City, NV before arriving to trendy  Reno, Nevada for our final evening. Take a tour through ‘The Biggest Little City’s’ vibrant art scene and if beer is your passion, your guide will point you to the best spots to get a tasting of the experimental craft brews. There’s something for everyone in Reno, and we are excited to show you why this big little city is so special.

Sample Itinerary

DAY 1 – San Francisco to South Lake Tahoe

Buckle up! After departing San Francisco, you’ll head through California’s capital city, Sacramento and into the Sierra Nevada foothills through famous Gold Rush Country. Make a stop in Placerville around lunchtime, a historic mining town with a slightly grim reputation. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream at the Hangman’s Saloon and learn a little history while there.  Afterwards, you’ll ascend higher into the mountains and wind through large pine forests before embarking on a short hike. Breath in the fresh mountain air and catch your first views of the glittering waters of South Lake Tahoe before heading to your hotel to check-in. Tonight, be sure to check out the cute local shops, restaurants, and casinos in town (if you’re feeling lucky!) Rather get on the water? Enjoy a sunset champagne cruise and enjoy the lake from a different perspective.

DAY 2 – Full Day Lake Tahoe  

After a restful night, we’ll rise early and take advantage of a full day of activities. Enjoy a peaceful morning kayak tour on the water and/or hit the trails of picture-perfect Emerald Bay State Park. In the afternoon, browse the shops around Heavenly Mountain resort or hop on the gondola to reach the summit. This evening is full of options once again. On Thursdays throughout the summer season, head to the north-western side of the lake and experience ‘Truckee Thursdays’, an event where regional artisans, food trucks, a beer garden and live music collide.

DAY 3 – Lake Tahoe to Reno

Take in your last views of Tahoe’s crystal clear waters before departing for weird and wonderful Reno, Nevada. On the way, we will make a detour to jump back in time to visit Virginia City, a historic mining town straight out of the Old West. After a history lesson and a drink at the old saloon, you’ll make way for Reno. Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World”, this city has seen a surge in art and culture over the last decade. Previously known for its retro casinos and as a base for outdoor activities, there is now so much more to Reno than meets the eye. 

If craft beer is what you’re after, your guide can point you in the direction of the hippest spots for a DIY brewery crawl. If you’d rather get artsy, explore the Midtown District, which is home to the city’s best murals, vintage stores and boho boutiques. For the ‘burners’ out there, Reno is the gateway to Black Rock City and the final resting place for many of the festival’s art installations. Track them down throughout the city or visit the Nevada Museum of Art for the largest collection of Burning Man artifacts in the world. Tonight, choose a wide variety of dining options and watch the neon lights illuminate this city that definitely doesn’t sleep.

DAY 4 – Reno to San Francisco

Enjoy the morning in Reno for any extra activities you missed yesterday. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, visit the National Automobile Museum or take a shot at conquering the world’s tallest outdoor climbing wall! Around midday we’ll say our goodbyes to the Sierras as we make on our way back to the city by the bay. We’ll pass through the state’s capital city, Sacramento, following the historic Pony Express Trail through El Dorado National Forest, getting you back to the hotel drop-off in San Francisco by 9pm. 

*optional activities are not included in tour price and can be arranged by the help of your guide.