South Lake Tahoe in January

By: Anne Sutterfield

When Every Day is Heavenly

The magic and beauty of South Lake Tahoe are on full display in January. Whether you are watching waves softly crash onto a snowy shoreline, prepping for a thrilling snowmobile adventure, or finding comfort at a local coffee shop, January here is a paradise for anyone looking for a snowy piece of heaven. See a few of our recommendations below for what to do this January to help you make the most of this month.

The Mountains Are Calling!

Skier at Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake tahoe
Skier at Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake tahoe

There is no surprise that this is an amazing ski town, so… “when in Tahoe”! Find time to explore our mountains, and you’ll surely find a few perfect runs to alternate from throughout the day. Take advantage of the season and our terrain, and slide smoothly into ski season!

Learn more about what Heavenly Mountain, Kirkwood and Sierra at Tahoe have to offer here

Food, Fireside

Friends eating around a fire at South of North Brewing Company. Photo: Paje Victoria

Living at such a high altitude has its perks: Up here, our bodies work harder to regulate ourselves in a place with less oxygen, which makes it crucial that WE EAT A LOT! In these colder months, doing so comfortably is important if you go out for food. With options like South of North, The Hangar, Sprouts Cafe, and Lakeside Dining at the Landing Resort, dining out can remain comfortable and stylish all year round.

See more restaurant options here!

Brilliant Sunsets

Sunset over Lake Tahoe.

No visit is truly complete without an unforgettable sunset. From whichever part of the shore you get to, slow down and watch the mind-bending, timeless, therapeutic, and awesome landscape surrounding us. If you’re unsure where to find a good spot to see the sunset, here are some suggestions.

Snowshoes are in style

Couple snowshoeing at sunrise on Kiva beach. Photo: Rachid Dahnoun

Hiking is a year-round hobby in South Lake Tahoe, as long as you adjust your footwear for snow. Snowshoeing is a must-try if you’ve never done it, and if you have, it’s probably already on your Winter to-do list. Find the right rentals at several places in town, such as Tahoe Sports LTD or Powder House.

Stellar Stargazing

Night sky shot from Emerald Bay. Photo: Rachid Dahnoun

Make sure to take the opportunity to go outside on a clear night and watch the stars. Part of being in such a wild place is an amazing night sky. You won’t have to drive far or go camping to enjoy a great view of outer space and the sense of awe that comes with it.

Keep an eye out for wildlife!

Coyote standing in the snow. Photo: Brad Scott

South Lake Tahoe is famous for its black bears, but there are plenty of other species in the area that you can might see. Some are certainly more common than others, like the coyote, but there are a variety of cool creatures to keep an eye out for, like mule deer, bobcats, porcupines, and bald eagles, to name a few. Discover what other animals you might see here.

Events and Entertainment at Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey vs Tulsa Oilers at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, January 8-10, 2027 and vs Allen Americans, January 22-24, 2027.

Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey at the Tahoe Blue Event Center
Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey at the Tahoe Blue Event Center

Xtreme International Ice Racing at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, Saturday, January 2, 2027

Xtreme International Ice Racing Tahoe Blue Event Center

Xtreme International Ice Racing (XIIR) returns to Lake Tahoe for Round 2 of high-speed competition! Watch skilled riders race studded motorcycles and quads across the ice, navigating sharp turns and battling head-to-head—all without brakes. Bring the whole family for an action-packed evening of ice racing!

The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Saturday, January 17, 2027.

The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe.. Acclaimed tribute performer Shawn Barker brings the legendary country music icon to life with his rich baritone voice, signature style and remarkable stage presence. Backed by a live band, Barker takes audiences on a musical journey through Cash’s extraordinary career, performing beloved classics including “Ring of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “A Boy Named Sue” and “Hurt.”

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