Everyone should be able to experience the awe of this extraordinary place. Whether you're planning a day by the lake, attending an event, or exploring the South Shore's scenic trails and downtown, we’re here to help make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Below, you’ll find resources including accessible transportation options, event information, and a helpful map to guide your adventure.
Lake Tahoe offers a range of scenic, wheelchair-accessible trails and activities, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
We do our best to keep this page current and accurate, but conditions may change, especially with Tahoe’s ever-shifting weather. Snow, rain, or seasonal closures may impact access or facility availability. You are welcome to email info@visitlaketahoe.com with any questions, suggestions, or updates. You are also welcome to visit the Explore Tahoe Visitor Center or call (530) 542-4637.
Explore accessible recreation sites, activities, and dining options on the South Shore!
The list of activities and recreation sites below is in alphabetical order. At the bottom of this page are some FAQs and more information for different types of disabilities.
Connelley Beach, by the Beach Retreat, site features mobility mats and an ADA portapotty.
El Dorado Beach & Boat Ramp – This site has a beach wheelchair available for use, check out at boat ramp office. The beach wheelchair is first come, first served and there are no reservations. It is free of charge to use it and it can be checked out at the boat ramp office.
Heavenly Village offers accessible shopping, dining, and entertainment—all with wide, navigable walkways. You’ll find everything from local boutiques to gear shops, plus a movie theater and events that bring the plaza to life year-round, including the Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series. The Heavenly Gondola is also located here and is wheel chair accessible. There is also Braille signage available at the Observation Deck.
Lakeview Commons has a signed accessible wheelchair route, and restrooms to get down to the water level but no mobi mats. This recreation site also features picnic tables so it is a good place to share a meal with a view.
Nevada Beach is a great option with a paved path to the shoreline, firm sand, and accessible facilities that make it a favorite for relaxing by the water. This area also has campgrounds.
The Pope-Baldwin Bike Path runs for nearly 4 miles alongside Highway 89, providing a smooth, paved route through towering pines and peaceful meadows. It’s one of the longest fully accessible bike trails in the area.
Regan Beach is a recreation site with a playground, accessible restrooms, and a paved path around the lawn which is right near the water – however there is no direct beach access from that path. This site is not formally recommended because the asphalt is due for re-pavement so it would be best for a group versus solo adventurer in case assistance is needed.
Ski Resorts Heavenly Mountain Resort, in partnership with Achieve Tahoe, offers skiing and snowboarding programs for individuals with disabilities. The gondola is fully accessible and the mid-mountain observation deck is a great place to take in the views. Sierra-at-Tahoe and Kirkwood also offer adaptive ski programs and have accessible lifts, restrooms, and lodging.
Sugar Pine Point State Park features the Ed Z’Berg Nature Trail—a 0.7-mile paved loop that passes through a shaded forest and includes educational signage along the way. The park also offers accessible picnic areas, restrooms, and even a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier.
Tallac Historic Sitewas originally coined the “Grandest Resort in the World.” Today, the site includes the Baldwin Museum, Valhalla, and the Boathouse Theater, all of which are accessible by wheelchair.
Taylor Creek’s Rainbow Trail is a short, mostly paved loop that winds through forest and wetlands, complete with a boardwalk and a viewpoint that looks out over Lake Tahoe. While it’s designed to be accessible, the final hill can be a bit of a challenge for manual wheelchair users without assistance. Nearby, the Lake of theSky Trail is unpaved but relatively flat—suitable for some power chairs—and leads to Hope Beach and the lake’s edge. Accessible restrooms and parking are available at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. The site also features the Lake of the Sky Amphitheaterwith special programming throughout summer and early fall. This site also has an audio tour and information in Braille.
Zephyr Cove offers scenic cruises aboard the M.S. Dixie II, which is wheelchair accessible, including a sunset dinner cruise option. Ramps and accessible restrooms are available on board, and the views of Emerald Bay are unforgettable. More Ways to Recreate Responsibly at Lake Tahoe
We recommend Taylor Creek which has braille signage and an audio tour, and the Heavenly Gondola observation deck also features braille signage. For walking trails, Pope-Baldwin and South Lake Tahoe Bike Paths are well-paved good options. Nevada Beach is also a good beach to visit as it has a lot of wide open space and few obstacles.
Visit early in the day or midweek to avoid crowds and sensory overload – spring and fall also tend to be quieter times of year. Lam Watah Trail is a less popular quieter trail and Fallen Leaf Lake is another off the beaten track place to visit. Call or email the Explore Tahoe Visitor Center for personalized advice on quiet restaurants or any other questions you may have.
Campground by the Lake
Connelley Beach
El Dorado Boat Ramp
Heavenly Village
Heavenly Gondola
Lakeview Commons
Nevada Beach (Lam Watah Trailhead)
Regan Beach
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Getting Around Tahoe
If you will not be traveling by or renting a car, we recommend booking lodging within the Lake Link service range. This free, on-demand, micro-transit system is app-based and ADA accessible. The bus in South Lake Tahoe is also free to use and ADA accessible.
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife, creating a picturesque destination that captivates the hearts of travelers and locals alike. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the majestic scenery, skiing and snowboarding, hiking, boating, and all the other incredible things to do that this destination offers. Read on to learn how to lighten your impact while enjoying Tahoe Time. There are plenty of ways to enjoy everything in South Lake Tahoe respectfully and sustainably.
Lake Tahoe offers a range of scenic, wheelchair-accessible trails and activities, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
