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Chico, CA, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $30: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chico, United States of America
to
South Lake Tahoe, United States of America

How to Get from Chico 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 by carBest price
287 kmDistance
3h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chico 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  31m
Estimated price
$30-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 287 km
Duration: 3h 31m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  56m
Estimated price
$3-75
Company
FlixBus, Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$30-45
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Traveling From Chico to South Lake Tahoe

Journey from the laid-back charm of Chico to the breathtaking vistas and adventure-filled landscape of South Lake Tahoe, where a blend of outdoor excitement and vibrant nightlife awaits.

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Heavenly Valley
• Proximity to world-class ski resorts.
• Vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants.
Stateline
• Close to casinos and entertainment options.
• Beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and surrounding mountains.
South Lake Tahoe City
• Family-friendly environment with parks and beaches.
• Great access to local shops and dining options.

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in South Lake Tahoe.

Heavenly Ski Resort
Visit in early December or late March for fewer crowds and great snow.
Emerald Bay State Park
Early morning in the fall offers stunning views and tranquility with fewer visitors.
Lake Tahoe Beaches
Weekdays in summer provide a more peaceful beach experience compared to weekends.

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

South Lake Tahoe experiences a high alpine climate, featuring snowy winters perfect for skiing and warm summers ideal for outdoor adventures. The best times to visit depend on your activities, with winter drawing ski enthusiasts and summer attracting those who enjoy hiking and lake activities.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly unforgettable experience, try the blackened catfish at The Lake House, where the flavors contrast the more casual dining scene in Chico with a focus on upscale, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s lakeside ambiance and artful presentation elevate your meal, showcasing South Lake Tahoe's commitment to quality and culinary creativity.

Chico - South Lake Tahoe operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Chico Amtrak to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$3-75

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Chico Bus Station to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$5-45
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chico Amtrak to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$3-75

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

Traveling between Chico 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 journey from Chico to South Lake Tahoe, covering a distance of 178 miles in approximately 3 hours and 31 minutes. The road trip promises breathtaking views and memorable pit stops along the way. 💰 The cost of traveling by car from Chico to South Lake Tahoe ranges from $30 to $50, making it an affordable and convenient option for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Chico to South Lake Tahoe, you can still make the journey with services departing from Chico Amtrak and making transfers along the way. This trip will take approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. 🕰️ The Chico to South Lake Tahoe bus services, operated by Amtrak, provide a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two California destinations, with a total travel time of 5 hours and 45 minutes.
Departure Point
Chico Amtrak station
Arrival Point
South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Chico and South Lake Tahoe is approximately 114 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 178.2 miles. If travelling by train and bus, it takes around 5 hours and 56 minutes to reach South Lake Tahoe from Chico. Alternatively, driving by car takes about 3 hours and 31 minutes to reach Chico from South Lake Tahoe, while the bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes to travel in the opposite direction.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chico to South Lake Tahoe is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 31 minutes to reach South Lake Tahoe by car, and the cost is around $30-$50 for fuel. Taking a train and then a bus can also be a viable option, which takes around 5 hours and 56 minutes but may be more expensive. However, driving remains the quickest and most affordable choice for this particular trip.
To get from Chico to South Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 178 miles and it takes about 3 hours and 31 minutes to drive from Chico to South Lake Tahoe. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $30 to $50 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Chico to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. There are several bus services available that operate on this route. The cost of the bus ticket may vary depending on the specific bus company and time of travel.
There is no direct link between Chico and South Lake Tahoe by bus. However, there are bus services operated by Amtrak that connect the two cities with transfers. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including transfers at Sacramento and South Y Transit Center. The buses depart from Chico Amtrak station and arrive at South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station.
There are ample accommodation options near South Lake Tahoe with over 640 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $35 per night, catering to various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay near South Lake Tahoe, offering convenient access to the beautiful surroundings and recreational activities the area has to offer.

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