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Berkeley, CA, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $30: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Berkeley, United States
to
South Lake Tahoe, United States

How to Get from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$30 - OtherBest price
289 kmDistance
3h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus, Amtrak, Tahoe Transportation
Bus
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
BART
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  21m
Estimated price
$115-380
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 289 km
Duration: 3h 2m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
BART
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  3m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
Tahoe Ski Trips
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$120-129
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$150-1150
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$498-718

Berkeley - South Lake Tahoe operators

Explore transport companies operating between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Berkeley to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$1201-3804

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$1159-3800

Train from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from San Carlos to Truckee

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$1157-1158
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco to Reno

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$150-1153
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Subway from Downtown Berkeley to San Francisco International Airport

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$1201-3802
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from Berkeley to San Carlos

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$38010-1206

Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe, spanning 180 miles of picturesque California landscape. The drive typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes, offering a perfect opportunity for a day trip or weekend getaway. ⛰️ Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of driving to South Lake Tahoe, with costs ranging from $30 to $50 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Take in the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains as you cruise along the route towards this popular outdoor destination.
Average price
$30 - $50
🛫 Traveling from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe by plane is a convenient option. The quickest flight from San Carlos Airport to Truckee Airport is a direct route that takes just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Departure Point
San Carlos Airport
Arrival Point
Truckee Airport
🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus route from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe, travelers can still easily reach their destination. There are convenient services available with a total journey time of approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. 🏔️ Upon arrival at the South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop, passengers can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the area has to offer. With a total travel time of 5 hours and 10 minutes, this bus journey is a convenient way to reach this popular destination.
Departure Point
Berkeley station
Arrival Point
South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe.

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The cheapest way to travel from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe is by driving. The estimated cost of gas for the round trip is between $30 to $50, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. The drive takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on transportation costs. Additionally, carpooling with friends or family can help further reduce expenses.
The fastest way to travel from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe is to take a taxi to a nearby airport and then catch a flight to a nearby airport in Lake Tahoe. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 2 minutes, excluding travel time to the airport and waiting periods. The cost for this mode of transportation typically ranges from $490 to $750, depending on the availability of flights and taxi services. It's recommended to plan ahead and book in advance to secure the best prices for this quick travel option.
The distance between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe is approximately 145 miles. However, the road distance is slightly longer at about 179.7 miles due to the route's specifics. The journey by car typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Overall, travelers can expect a moderate drive distance between these two California destinations.
To travel from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best option is to take a bus. You can take a bus from Berkeley to Sacramento, and then transfer to a bus that goes from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe. The total travel time is approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance to plan your journey accordingly.
The travel time from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe is approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes, including any necessary transfers. This time may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen, such as driving, bus, or a combination of both. It's advisable to plan for extra time for unforeseen delays or traffic congestion to ensure a smooth journey. Additionally, considering the scenic route and potential stops along the way could add to the overall travel time but enhance the travel experience.
There are plenty of accommodation options near South Lake Tahoe, with over 513 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area generally start at around $35 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxury options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a lakeside resort, or a quaint bed and breakfast, there are numerous choices available to suit your needs during your stay near South Lake Tahoe. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred choice and to potentially benefit from early booking discounts.
Yes, you can drive from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe. The driving distance between the two locations is 180 miles, and it typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes to drive there. The route usually involves taking Interstate 80 East and then some scenic highways through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Please ensure you have enough fuel and plan breaks along the way for a comfortable journey.
No, there is no direct bus service between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe. Travelers would typically have to take a combination of buses with transfers through locations such as Sacramento and South Y Transit Center to reach South Lake Tahoe. The journey with transfers usually takes around 5 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Planning for the transfer points and coordinating the schedules of the different buses involved is crucial for a smooth travel experience.
You can catch the bus from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe at the Berkeley station. The bus services for this route are operated by Flixbus USA. It is recommended to arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process. The schedule and availability of buses may vary, so it's advisable to check the latest updates on the Flixbus USA website or contact their customer service.
The bus from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe operated by Amtrak arrives at the South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station. This station is conveniently located for travelers heading to South Lake Tahoe in the El Dorado County region of California. From the bus stop, passengers can easily access various accommodations, attractions, and outdoor activities that South Lake Tahoe has to offer. Travelers can also find additional information about the bus arrival point on the Amtrak website or by contacting their customer service.
Currently, Southern Airways Express is the airline that offers flights between the Bay Area in San Carlos Airport and Truckee Airport near South Lake Tahoe. They provide a convenient air travel option for those looking to reach the beautiful destination. Southern Airways Express provides a non-stop flight, making the journey quick and efficient for travelers. It's advisable to check their flight schedules and availability for the most up-to-date information on traveling between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe via air.
The fastest way to travel from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe by plane is to take a direct flight from San Carlos Airport to Truckee Airport. This flight is operated by Southern Airways Express and has a travel time of 1 hour and 5 minutes. It is the quickest option available for this route. Travelers can enjoy a swift and convenient journey by flying directly to their destination in South Lake Tahoe.
The quickest flight from San Carlos Airport to Truckee Airport, the closest airport to South Lake Tahoe, takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. However, it's worth noting that there are no direct commercial flights between Berkeley and South Lake Tahoe as South Lake Tahoe does not have a commercial airport. Most travelers choose to drive the distance between the two locations, which takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes and offers scenic views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Alternatively, one can opt for a combination of different modes of transportation like flying to a nearby airport and then taking a shuttle or rental car to reach South Lake Tahoe.
The cost to drive from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe typically ranges from $30 to $50, depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This cost includes fuel expenses for the round trip, covering a distance of around 180 miles each way. It's recommended to budget extra for any potential tolls, snacks, or unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the journey. Overall, driving offers a cost-effective and flexible travel option for those heading from Berkeley to South Lake Tahoe.