Autumn Mountain Charm Awaits in Lake Tahoe

There's nothing quite like the charming quietude of Tahoe in the fall. With many year-round activities available and the aspen leaves turning from green to yellow to bright orange, then falling slowly to the ground, if you're seeking a romantic getaway, consider the south shore of Lake Tahoe as your next destination. With a rainbow sidewalk in the middle of town near Lakeview Commons, a central gathering point for the south shore, the community proudly displays its stance on love. Here are three ways to spend a day soaking in the most that the south shore of Lake Tahoe has to offer:

For the biggest fall display, we recommend making the trek out to Fallen Leaf Lake. Stop by The Cork & More on your way, and pick up a picnic spread. Their selection of fine wines and cheese, not to mention the cutest home decor, is worth a good perusing. If you're looking for some adventure, take a high-country stroll out to Angora Lakes and enjoy the incredible views along the way. From there, return to town and hike the Van Sickle Bi-State Park, which offers easy-to-access epic lake views, not to mention a photo opportunity at the California-Nevada state line. If there's early season rain, you can also check out the Van Sickle Waterfall along the way. Back down at lake level, the Shops at Heavenly Village have an array of options - don't miss Champagne & Chocolate or Kalani's for Hawaiian fusion cuisine. Cap off your night at Community Speakeasy Social House or Noel's Apothecary, the latter of which is just a short walk away.

If you're looking for deep relaxation, begin your day with a peaceful walk down Lam Watah to Nevada Beach, where stands of aspens will delight. Then, book appointments at either the Spa at the Edgewood Lodge and Elements Day Spa at the Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge. The south shore of Lake Tahoe also offers Japanese cedar baths at Tahoe Forest Baths - a highly unique experience only offered a few other places in the United States. For something extraordinary, this is a must! For the evening, Idle Hour is a local favorite with fire pits, an extensive wine list, and one of the best lake views in town.

Lastly, a trip to Tahoe isn't complete without getting out on the water. Clearly Tahoe offers year-round kayaking tours with excellent local guides in clear-bottom kayaks so you can take it all in as you paddle on crystal blue waters surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada. Afterward, stretch your legs along the Taylor Creek trail, lined by aspen, where you might catch a glimpse of some bears readying for hibernation as the salmon run up the creek. For lunch, Primo's Italian Bistro is nearby and offers delicious Italian food in a contemporary and cozy environment. End your trip on a high on the MS Dixie II, a Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler, that offers sunset dinner cruises.