There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. For kids (big and small!) who love to be outdoors, here are eight experiences worth checking out.
Winter:
Outdoor Ice Skating
northstarcalifornia.com
When the ski day comes to a close and the kiddos still have energy to burn, there’s nothing like putting on a pair of skates and twirling around the outdoor ice rink in the Village at Northstar. Need a break? Relax in the cabanas that surround the rink, warm up by the fire pits, roast s’mores or sip on hot cocoa while the evening slips away. This is the life.
Snow Tubing
northstarcalifornia.com
Kids can still have a blast sliding on snow without skiing or snowboarding. When conditions permit, Northstar California Resort offers lift-served snow tubing on a run punctuated with bumps and berms that is guaranteed to have both kids and adults smiling ear to ear. New this year, Northstar will also offer a hike and slide sledding option on the Overlook in the Village at Northstar.
All Season:
KidZone Museum
kidzonemuseum.org
The ideal play space for kids, Truckee’s KidZone Museum welcomes families with young children of all ages and inspires learning through creative play and discovery. Hand-crafted exhibits and hands-on science and art programs help children become innovative thinkers and develop communication, problem solving and collaboration skills. Don’t miss KidZone’s “Family Fun Friday” special crafting events.
Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park
tahoetreetop.com
If ziplines, rope swings, cargo nets, and wobbly aerial bridges that will test your athleticism are your speed, don’t miss an opportunity to visit Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks. With three options in North Lake Tahoe—in Tahoe City, Tahoe Vista and Squaw Valley—each park offers guests ages 5+ different self-guided courses that will challenge all ability levels. These courses will give you an entirely different perspective as you make your way through the tree canopy.
Old Greenwood Pavilion
tahoemountainclub.com
The center of all the action, the Pavilion at Old Greenwood is one place that is sure to keep the entire family entertained. Year-round kids programming includes activities like nature hikes, scavenger hunts, arts & crafts and more. Who said swimming was reserved for the summer months only? The pool at the Old Greenwood Pavilion is open all year. (The kiddie pool and kids area are open only in the summer.)
Summer:
Truckee Air Show
truckeetahoeairshow.com
One of the most spectacular free, interactive summer events in the area, the Truckee Air Show has quickly become a family favorite of locals and visitors alike. Between airplane acrobatics, static airplane displays, free flights for kids, vendors and much more, there’s a full day of fun to be had on the tarmac. Mark your calendar—this annual event takes place mid-July and raises funds for local youth programs.
Truckee Bike Park
truckeebikepark.org
Designed for kids both big and small, the Truckee Bike Park has it all! The littlest riders can build their skills on the strider track, and an XC loop gives burgeoning riders an opportunity to ride from the park on a different type of trail. With beginner, intermediate and advanced lines, and special events throughout the summer season, there are plenty of opportunities to learn and progress.
Waterman’s Landing Paddle Camps
watermanslanding.com
Summer camp on the water? Yes, please! Kids who love to play in the water will learn to paddleboard, kayak or use an outrigger canoe will enjoy four fun days on the water when they participate in Watergrom Camps at Waterman’s Landing. Designed for kids ages 7-14 (don’t worry, mom and dad—there are parent paddle camps, too!), summer camps cater to all ability levels and include activities both in and out of the water. Offered in July and August.
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