I agree with most of the prior post. However I never suggest a drive around the lake. Not only does it send extra emissions intot eh air but so much on the east side is not viewable as the road heads away from the lake.

I say see the west side and then the north to Sand Harbor.

So if you get an early start go up 50 and when you get to south lake tahoe do not turn right go north on 89. You'll pass the Tallac site, Camp Richardson, Baldwin Beach and then on the left, Fallen Leaf Lake. Further north you will come upon Emerald Bay. You can hike down to the water's edge but it's steep and the castle is not open in Oct.

Further north you will see Meeks Bay which is a lovely beach with great views. When I mention beaches it's not that you'd swim but you can see the lake and the views from these beaches.

Heading north again stop in at Sugar Pine Point and see the Ehrmann Hellman Mansion-how the rich lived.

Pick up really great sandwiches at the meat counter at the Tahoma Market. Driving north stop lakeside at Kaspian. It's a narrow spot with picnic tables, bathroom and nice views.

Heading north into Tahoe City stop and see the famous fanny bridge though it has gone through a nice upgrade. Turn right onto 28

Head east for some peeks at the lake. When you are entering Incline Vilage turn right onto Lakeshore Blvd. This street is so pretty. It will come out and rejoin 28. Head south on 28 to Sand Harbor for a sunset view.

Then backtrack to Kings Beach and turn right on 267 to head down toward Truckee and Interstate 80 to go west to Sacramento.

There are many places to suggest for dinner if you want to say what you'd like and what a budget might be.

You really will not miss too much if you cut out the area south of Sand Harbor and all of South Lake Tahoe but if you allow yourself more time to really stop and enjoy the areas on the west and north side you should have a great day trip..

Thanks so much for such a detailed and informative itinerary, we would love to spend a night there, but just can't squeeze it in to our busy itinerary. Cheers Angie

By the way, this will probably be either Saturday or Sunday in October, any traffic issues we should know about? Cheers Angie

October is pretty low season. Since there are plenty of casinos nearby in CA, people don't drive to Tahoe for gambling so much anymore. Traffic will probably be pretty light. Especially on a Sunday morning.

I would agree with Suzie, but personally I would take one short detour. If you're near South Lake Tahoe around a mealtime try the Blue Water Bistro. We ate there and enjoyed the food, it was a little pricey but the view from their pier across the lake at the east side of the Desolation Wilderness is spectacular. Especially at sunset.

We ate at Blue Water Bistro during our last trip and it's good but only if you've seen all the sights and still have time to venture into SLT.

Along the way is a biker bar you can find directions to online, but its called Poor Reds, great BBQ. Hole in the wall, but I love it. 6221 Pleasant Valley Rd

El Dorado, CA 95623