Your Guide to Lake Tahoe in February

Last Updated on April 22, 2024 by foxintheforest

The fanfare of the holiday season is long gone and that means one thing for the jewel of the Sierra – snow! February in Lake Tahoe is the season of snow. In fact, it’s the best time to visit if you’re looking to enjoy the fluffy white stuff!

My family lives in Lake Tahoe and I’ve been coming here for the past 25 years. Yup, that’s a long time! February is one of my favorite times to visit simply because it’s quiet. Back when I was really into snowboarding and snowmobiling, I’d make a trip out here almost every February.

If you want the inside scoop on visiting Lake Tahoe like a local, not a tourist, then you’re in the right place!

About this Guide to Lake Tahoe in February

Inside this expert guide to Lake Tahoe in February you’ll find expert advice on the following:

  • February weather in Tahoe, including info about snow
  • Things to do in Lake Tahoe besides ski this February
  • Festivals and happenings in February around the Lake
  • Additional planning resources.
A view of two docks covered in snow in Lake Tahoe in February. The sun is setting in the background and the mountains are covered in snow.

Is February a Good Time to Visit Lake Tahoe?

It depends. February is the best month to visit Lake Tahoe to ski. This is because most mountains are completely open and the holiday crowds are gone. So if you want to really hit this slopes, February is where it’s at. The big downside? It’s not as sunny as it is during other months of the year.

If you prefer hiking, swimming, boating, or other non-snowy activities, then you’ll probably want to visit Tahoe in the summer or fall.

February Weather in Tahoe

The weather in Lake Tahoe during February is certainly wintery no matter where you are on the lake. The average temperatures during the day range from 33 to 45 degrees and at night it’s between 7 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit – so definitely be sure to pack that down jacket!

February is a cloudy month, with an average of 53% cloud cover, but that also means there’s plenty of snow. So if you’re searching for powder days on the slopes, then Feb is a great bet! On average there is 12.4 inches of new snow in South Lake Tahoe (read: not a very snowy part of the lake), but the resorts can see much more. Storms here are measured in feet, so be prepared!

Local Tip: Sometimes it can snow too much! This means they actually can’t open roads or ski resorts. Be sure to rent a 4WD vehicle in order to stay safe on the roads. Also, look at North Lake Tahoe vs. South Lake Tahoe to figure out where you want to stay.

Is There Still Snow in Lake Tahoe in February?

Oh yes, absolutely! In fact, I would expect to see snow in February if you’re visiting Lake Tahoe. Sure, some years it’s pretty bare on most of the ground, but on average February is a snowy time. The month sees 12 – 28 inches of snow in the year and that’s just at the lake. Up higher in the mountains, expect more snow!

Meg in a blue jacket sitting on Cave Rock in Lake Tahoe in February.

What is there to do in Lake Tahoe in February?

There are plenty of ways to enjoy winter in Lake Tahoe. February is still a snowy season in Lake Tahoe, so expect plenty of wintery activities on the agenda!

Experience Skiing in Lake Tahoe

There are plenty of incredible places to ski around Lake Tahoe. There’s nothing sweeter than hitting the slopes and having a bird’s eye view of the lake as you fly through pillows of powder! A few of my all-time favorite resorts are:

  • Mt Rose
  • Palisades Tahoe
  • Northstar Mountain
A person in blue walking on a snow covered ground and through pine trees covered in snow with a view of the lake in the background.
View of Lake Tahoe framed by snow covered trees from high up on Heavenly Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Take a Snowmobiling Tour

For a fast-paced way to explore the mountains, consider taking a snowmobile tour. As one of the more unique ways to experience Lake Tahoe’s winter scenes, this must-do activity caters to adventure junkies and the newbie alike!

Local Tip: Back when I was in high school, I used to rip our sleds all over the Lake Tahoe area. It was awesome to pack a picnic (and a hot beverage) and get out on the snowmobile. If you do head out on your own, be prepared and read up on trail conditions!

Go Cross Country Skiing

The first time I tried cross-country skiing I went to the Tahoe XC Nordic Center near the north shore. I was pregnant at the time and it was a BLAST! We took a lesson, rented gear, and then had the opportunity to head out on the trails on our own. I would 100% recommend this if you don’t want a full day on the slopes and you’d like to learn something new!

Hit the Trails

Snowshoeing and winter hikes in Lake Tahoe are a long-lived pastime of mine! They offer a great way to experience the snowy season. Just keep in mind, that after a snowstorm, the snow can be quite unstable. Wait 24 hours after substantial snow for avalanche danger to clear and check avalanche conditions before you venture into the mountains.

Here are a few great hikes to check out this winter season:

A person in a blue jacket and white hat looking out at a stunning view of Lake Tahoe with clear skies and snow on the ground in January in Lake Tahoe.

Skate Around a Rink

There are lots of places to go ice skating in Lake Tahoe and February provides the perfect backdrop for some time on the ice. Just remember, ice skating at a ski resort is pretty pricey (and busy) so I personally recommend checking out specific ice rinks and winter sports places instead.

Here’s a look at a few spots you’ll want to check out:

  • Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
  • South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena (indoors)
  • Truckee Ice Rink

Festivals and More

There are a few cool festivals worth checking out in February. Here’s what’s in the lineup for 2024.

US Ski Championships

Held in the famous Olympic Valley at Palisades at Tahoe (used to be Squaw Valley back when they hosted the Olympic Games), the US Ski Championships are here! The Stifel Palisade Tahoe Cup is a US Ski Championship that will host a slew of awesome Olympic athletes.

Dates: Feb 23-25

Winter Reggae Festival

The annual Winter Reggae Festival is back! Celebrate the good vibes (and maybe think about a palm-tree-lined beach) at the Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline. Festivities start at 4pm and go into the evening with a sweet lineup of reggae artists.

Dates: February 17-18, 2024

Snowfest

North Lake Tahoe (just outside of Tahoe City) is having it’s 42nd annual snowfest this year! This free event celebrates the community along the north shore and aims to support local nonprofits, public programs, and businesses.

Dates: Feb 29th – Mar 10th 2024.

Additional Lake Tahoe Travel Resources

Wanna get away like a local? Then check out these amazingly-local Lake Tahoe travel resources.

Picture of Meg Atteberry
Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Hi There!

Meg Atteberry standing on a mountain sticking her tongue out

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. She's been widely-published in the outdoors and even appeared on National TV talking about how to level up your outdoor skills and discover hidden hikes in the American West.