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.
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!
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
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:
- Trails around Emerald Bay
- Cave Rock
- Eagle Lake
- Marlette Lake
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.
