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Denver, CO, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $200: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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

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$200 - DriveBest price
1771 kmDistance
7h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Denver 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
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  24m
Estimated price
$83-418
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  36m
Estimated price
$200-290
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1771 km
Duration: 7h 24m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  25m
Estimated price
$123-410
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$123-410
Company
various
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
27h  37m
Estimated price
$258-589
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Denver to South Lake Tahoe

The journey from Denver's bustling city vibes to South Lake Tahoe's serene natural beauty offers travelers a striking contrast between urban excitement and tranquil outdoor adventures.

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Heavenly Village
• Close to skiing and snowboarding spots.
• Vibrant shops and dining options available.
Stateline
• Proximity to casinos and nightlife.
• Beautiful lake views throughout the area.
South Lake Tahoe City
• Convenient access to local attractions.
• Scenic parks and beaches for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times can enhance your South Lake Tahoe experience.

Heavenly Mountain Resort
Visit in early December and late March for fewer crowds and good skiing conditions.
Emerald Bay State Park
Early morning visits in September offer breathtaking views and tranquility.
South Lake Tahoe Beaches
Late afternoon on weekdays in summer provides quieter relaxation spots.

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

South Lake Tahoe experiences a highland climate with warm summers and snowy winters, making it ideal for both summer hiking and winter sports. Knowing when to visit based on weather patterns can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or scenic drives.

Dining Recommendation in South Lake Tahoe

Try the fresh trout at Scusa Italian Ristorante, where locally sourced ingredients merge with a cozy lakeside ambiance, differing significantly from Denver's urban dining scene. The mixture of flavors and the picturesque views provide a distinctive culinary experience that reflects the mountain lifestyle.

Denver - South Lake Tahoe operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Reno Airport (RNO)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$834-835

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Sacramento Airport (SMF)

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
$837-838

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Fresno Airport (FAT)

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$834-839
Website
united.com

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Reno Airport (RNO)

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
$836-4181

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Sacramento Airport (SMF)

Average Duration
2h 38m
Estimated price
$4182-4183

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Fresno Airport (FAT)

Average Duration
2h 41m
Estimated price
$4184-4185
Website
delta.com

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Reno Airport (RNO)

Average Duration
4h 16m
Estimated price
$836-835

Plane from Denver Airport (DEN) to Fresno Airport (FAT)

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$4186-4180
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Denver to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration
26h 32m
Estimated price
$1231-1232
Bus
Contact phone
866-898-2463
Website
southtahoeairporter.com

Bus from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Ltrh

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$1238-833

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 530-412-1927
Website
highsierrataxi.net

Taxi from Truckee Amtrak Station to South Lake Tahoe

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$4104-4105

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

Traveling between Denver 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.

🚗 Embarking on the scenic road trip from Denver to South Lake Tahoe travelers are in for a journey spanning 1101 miles. The route offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, expansive plains, and eventually the majestic Sierra Nevada. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers will delight in the flexible pricing options to reach South Lake Tahoe from Denver by car, ranging from $200 to $290. With careful planning and cost-effective choices along the way, adventurers can make the most of their journey without breaking the bank. ⏱️ Allowing approximately 16 hours and 36 minutes of driving time, the trip from Denver to South Lake Tahoe promises an immersive experience of diverse landscapes and the freedom of the open road. Be prepared for rest stops, quaint towns, and a sense of adventure throughout this unforgettable expedition.
Average price
$200 - $290
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Denver to South Lake Tahoe is by taking a direct flight from Denver Airport to Reno Airport, which only takes 2 hours and 25 minutes. Airlines like United, Delta, and Southwest all offer convenient flights for this route. 🚗 Once you arrive in Reno, you can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to South Lake Tahoe, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Sierra Nevada mountains as you make your way to this popular destination.
Departure Point
Denver Airport
Arrival Point
Reno Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Denver 🏔️ to South Lake Tahoe 🌲 covering a distance of 1,227 miles with 4 transfers along the way. 🗺️ Enjoy the diverse landscapes as you travel through cities like Las Vegas and Reno, taking in the beauty of the journey that spans nearly 2 days.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Denver and South Lake Tahoe is approximately 807 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 1101 miles. If you choose to fly, it takes around 7 hours and 19 minutes to reach South Lake Tahoe by flying to Reno and then taking a bus. On the other hand, driving from South Lake Tahoe to Denver takes approximately 16 hours and 36 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Denver to South Lake Tahoe is to fly to Reno and then take a bus. This option costs $80-$420 and takes approximately 7 hours and 19 minutes. Flying and taking a bus is not only cheaper, but it also saves time compared to driving, which takes approximately 16 hours and 36 minutes.
To travel from Denver to South Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance is approximately 1101 miles and it takes around 16 hours and 36 minutes to reach your destination. However, it is important to note that the prices for this option can vary from $200 to $290 depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
To travel from Denver to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best option is to take a train and then a taxi. The journey takes approximately 27 hours and 37 minutes and can cost between $250 to $600. The train will take you to the nearest station, and from there you can take a taxi to reach your destination in South Lake Tahoe. This is a convenient way to travel without the need for a car.
The flight from Denver to South Lake Tahoe typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. It is important to note, however, that there are no direct flights between these two destinations. Passengers would need to take a connecting flight to Reno Airport and then travel by other means, such as a bus or car, to reach South Lake Tahoe. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of year, but typically ranges from $200 to $400 for a round trip ticket.
There are many options for staying near South Lake Tahoe. There are over 640 hotels available in the area, with prices starting at $35 per night. Some popular hotel chains in South Lake Tahoe include Harrah's Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Village Condos, and Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel. Additionally, there are numerous vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts available for those looking for a more personalized experience.

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