Sacramento, CA, USA to Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $18: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$18 - OtherBest price

168 kmDistance

2h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento to 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.

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Traveling From Sacramento to Lake Tahoe

The route from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe takes you from the bustling cityscape and urban culture to the breathtaking alpine scenery and outdoor adventures of the lake.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

South Lake Tahoe

• Vibrant nightlife and dining options

• Easy access to beaches and ski resorts

Tahoe City

• Scenic views along the shoreline

• Charming shops and local eateries

Incline Village

• Upscale amenities and luxury rentals

• Iconic golf courses and hiking trails

Best Times To Visit Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Timing your visits to Lake Tahoe's iconic attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Emerald Bay State Park

Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer crowds.

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Weekdays in winter offer quieter slopes and more personal attention.

Sand Harbor Beach

Late spring or early fall brings warm water and fewer beachgoers.

Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lake Tahoe boasts a diverse climate, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and snowy winters ideal for skiing. Understanding the seasonal variations can help you plan your trip for the best experience, whether you crave relaxing by the lake or hitting the slopes.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable meal, try the seared rainbow trout at Edgewood Tahoe, where the fresh fish reflects the local flavors of the region. The lakeside setting enhances your dining experience, offering a serene ambiance that contrasts with the urban dining scenes of Sacramento.

Sacramento - Lake Tahoe operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

2h 20m

Estimated price

0-0

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

Traveling between Sacramento and 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 picturesque train journey from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe spanning a distance of 123 miles. The route includes a transfer, adding to the adventure of the trip. 🚌 The first leg of the trip involves a serene bus ride towards Reno Sparks, lasting approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. The Greyhound bus departs from Sacramento Greyhound bus station and arrives in Truckee, setting the stage for the scenic exploration ahead. 🌲 Delight in the final bus journey from Truckee Depot to Crystal Bay, with a short 48-minute ride through stunning landscapes. Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit ensures a smooth and enjoyable transit experience, connecting travelers to the captivating beauty of Lake Tahoe.

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard the Amtrak service from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe, you can expect catering services such as pre-packaged snacks and beverages. Depending on the class of service you book, you may also have access to a café car where you can purchase hot meals and refreshing drinks. Take advantage of the refreshments on board to enhance your travel experience.

• Amtrak offers different seating options on this route, including Coach Class, Business Class, and First-Class seats. Coach Class provides basic seating with ample legroom, while Business Class offers more spacious seats and complimentary beverages. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, First-Class seats provide wider space, better amenities, and additional perks such as priority boarding. Make sure to book your preferred class early for better availability!

• Two main operators service this route: Amtrak (amtrak.com) and the new Breeze intercity train service (breezeexpress.com). Both companies operate trains to reach Lake Tahoe from Sacramento. Be sure to check their websites for real-time schedules and ticket purchasing options. After arriving in Lake Tahoe, you could travel to the city center quickly by catching the local bus service, which provides direct connections. For instance, the Tahoe Transportation District offers bus routes including TART that serve the area efficiently.

🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe, covering a distance of 108 miles in approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes with a transfer in between. Board the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach from Sacramento Valley Station to Truckee operated by Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority. 🌲 Explore multiple beautiful routes to Lake Tahoe, each offering a unique travel experience. Opt for the Greyhound bus service from Sacramento to Truckee, followed by the Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit bus to Crystal Bay for a total travel time of around 4 hours and 17 minutes. ⛰️ For a slightly longer but equally picturesque trip from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe, consider a journey involving two transfers. Begin with Greyhound from Sacramento to Truckee, then switch to Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit, leading you to Tahoe City and finally Incline, totaling about 4 hours and 21 minutes.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• When booking your bus from Sacramento, consider the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach or Greyhound, as they offer convenient schedules; check out capitolcorridor.org for Amtrak and greyhound.com for Greyhound.

• Ensure you check the departure times for the Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit buses at Truckee Depot, as they are timed closely after your arrival and can be found at tahoetruckeetransit.com

• Upon arriving at Lake Tahoe, the bus stop at Hwy 28 and Secline St is near local attractions and dining options; explore the area for scenic views and great eateries like the Crystal Bay Club, just a short walk away.

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe is approximately 100 miles. The typical travel time by car is about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe, which may take around 3-4 hours depending on the schedule and any transfers required. Another option is to fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport and then drive or take a shuttle to Lake Tahoe, which would typically take around 1-2 hours.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe is typically by car. Renting a car or using your own vehicle allows for flexibility in your schedule and the ability to explore various attractions along the way. If you prefer not to drive, taking a bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe is a budget-friendly alternative, though it may take longer than driving yourself. Flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport and then renting a car or taking a shuttle to Lake Tahoe can also be a convenient option, especially if time is a priority.

The prices for traveling from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Renting a car for the trip typically costs between $30 to $50 per day, plus fuel expenses. Taking a bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe can range from $20 to $50 for a one-way ticket, depending on the bus company and booking in advance. If flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport, expect airfare prices to fluctuate based on the time of booking and availability, usually starting around $100 one way.

To get from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you can opt to rent a car and drive yourself. The drive typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you could arrange for a private car service or carpool with friends or family who have vehicles. This option allows for flexibility in your schedule and the opportunity to enjoy a scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

If you prefer not to use a car, you can take a bus from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe. Several bus companies offer daily service between the two locations, with travel times ranging from 3-4 hours depending on the route and any stops. Another option is to book a shuttle service that specializes in transportation between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. These shuttles offer convenient pick-up and drop-off locations and may provide additional amenities such as Wi-Fi and comfortable seating for a more enjoyable journey.

There is no direct link, such as a train or direct bus route, between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. However, there are transportation options available that can take you from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe with transfers or connecting routes. You can take a combination of public transportation, such as buses or shuttles, to reach your destination. Another option is to book a private transportation service that can provide a seamless journey from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe without the need for multiple transfers.

There are no direct commercial flights between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe as they are relatively close by road. However, you can book a charter flight or helicopter ride which would take around 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on the type of aircraft and route taken. The cost for a charter flight or helicopter ride can vary widely depending on the provider, type of aircraft, and any additional services included, but it typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

There are various accommodation options near Lake Tahoe ranging from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals and campgrounds. Popular areas to stay near Lake Tahoe include South Lake Tahoe and Stateline. Some well-known hotels in the area include The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe and The Landing Resort & Spa. Additionally, there are numerous cabins, vacation homes, and campgrounds available for those looking for a more secluded or budget-friendly option.