Minneapolis, MN, USA to Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $330: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Minneapolis to 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.

$330 - DriveBest price

2939 kmDistance

8h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe

Traveling from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe offers you a fascinating transition from the vibrant urban life of the Midwest to the stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures of the Sierra Nevada.

Best Neighborhoods in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Stateline

• Home to lively casinos and nightlife.

• Easy access to the lake and beaches.

South Lake Tahoe

• Features charming shops and restaurants.

• Great for year-round outdoor activities.

North Lake Tahoe

• Offers stunning views and tranquil settings.

• Ideal for hiking and winter sports enthusiasts.

Best Times To Visit Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Timing your visits can enrich your experience at Lake Tahoe's top spots.

Emerald Bay State Park

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

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Weekdays during winter months offer shorter lift lines and more snow.

Lake Tahoe Beaches

Early June or late September provides warm weather and less tourist traffic.

Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lake Tahoe features a diverse climate, with warm, dry summers and snowy winters that create distinct travel experiences throughout the year. Understanding seasonal weather patterns can help you choose the best times for outdoor activities, from hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter.

Dining Recommendation in Lake Tahoe

Indulge in the fresh local flavors at The Lake Tahoe Restaurant, where you can savor their signature cedar plank salmon, a dish that celebrates the region's fresh catch and unique wood-smoked preparation. This culinary experience contrasts with Minneapolis's rich Midwest comfort food, providing a vibrant lakeside atmosphere that highlights the stunning surroundings and seasonal ingredients.

Minneapolis - Lake Tahoe operators

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

Plane

Website

suncountry.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

3h 46m

Estimated price

$6421-6420

Website

delta.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

3h 44m

Estimated price

$1933-6420

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

4h 1m

Estimated price

$1935-6420

Website

united.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

5h 54m

Estimated price

$1939-1938

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

6h 23m

Estimated price

$330-6420

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from St. Paul-Minneapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

7h 55m

Estimated price

$6422-6423

Train from Chicago Union Station to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration

45h 37m

Estimated price

$3203-6420

Train from Denver to Sacramento

Average Duration

31h 8m

Estimated price

$10241-10242

Train from St. Paul-Minneapolis to Portland

Average Duration

38h 4m

Estimated price

$10243-10249

Train from Portland to Sacramento

Average Duration

16h 6m

Estimated price

$4362-4361

Bus

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Depot to Sioux Falls, SD

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Sioux Falls, SD to Omaha, NE

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Minneapolis to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration

28h 40m

Estimated price

$10244-43690

Bus from Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal to Montclair Transcenter

Average Duration

5h 25m

Estimated price

$4362-4364

Contact phone

+1-877-779-2999

Website

expressarrow.com

Bus from Omaha, NE to Denver

Average Duration

10h 20m

Estimated price

$6427-10244

Contact phone

866-898-2463

Website

southtahoeairporter.com

Bus from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Ltrh

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$4365-1932

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Minneapolis and Lake Tahoe is approximately 1200 miles. If traveling by air, a direct flight typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, but considering layovers and airport time, the total journey could take 6 to 8 hours. Driving the distance would take roughly 18 to 20 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Train travel is less common for this route and could take significantly longer, often exceeding 24 hours.

The most cost-effective transportation option from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe is often flying, especially if you book in advance and find deals on budget airlines, which can save both time and money. A flight typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, making it the quickest option compared to driving. However, if you're open to a road trip, carpooling can reduce costs for gas and lodging while allowing for flexibility in your travel schedule. Ultimately, the choice between flying or driving depends on your budget, time constraints, and preference for convenience versus adventure.

Prices for traveling from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation. A round-trip flight typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. If you choose to drive, expect to spend around $150 to $250 on gas, plus costs for lodging and meals, which can add an additional $100 to $300, depending on your stops. Train travel is less common for this route and can be more expensive, often exceeding $300 when considering ticket prices and travel time.

To get from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car for the journey. The drive covers about 1200 miles and generally takes 18 to 20 hours, allowing for breaks and overnight stops along the way. Alternatively, you could hire a private driver or rideshare service, although this can be quite expensive given the distance. For a more leisurely option, consider using a personal or rented RV, which would allow you to enjoy the scenery and have the flexibility to explore sites along your route.

To travel from Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe without a car, you can opt for a combination of flights and ground transportation. First, book a flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to an airport near Lake Tahoe, such as Reno-Tahoe International Airport, which typically takes about 3 to 4 hours. Once you arrive in Reno, you can use a rideshare service, shuttle, or taxi to reach your final destination in Lake Tahoe. Alternatively, consider renting a bicycle or utilizing local shuttle services to explore the area once you arrive.

There is no direct public transportation link between Minneapolis and Lake Tahoe. While flight options may involve direct routes to nearby airports, such as Reno-Tahoe International Airport, you will typically need to make a connection in cities like Denver or San Francisco. Once you arrive at a nearby airport, additional ground transportation, like shuttles or rideshares, is required to reach Lake Tahoe. Hence, planning your trip will necessitate coordinating multiple modes of transportation.

The flight from Minneapolis to the nearest major airport in Lake Tahoe typically takes about 3 to 4 hours of flying time, but most itineraries include layovers, which can extend the total travel time to around 6 to 8 hours. The cost of flights can vary widely depending on the time of year, booking time, and demand, but you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 for a round-trip ticket. It's advisable to book in advance and compare prices across different airlines for the best deals. Additionally, prices may fluctuate during peak travel seasons, such as summer and winter holidays.

Near Lake Tahoe you have a variety of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, vacation rentals, and cozy lodges. Popular areas to stay include South Lake Tahoe, where you can find numerous hotels and access to beaches and casinos, as well as the North Lake Tahoe region, known for its beautiful views and quieter atmosphere. Additionally, many vacation rentals are available, offering a home-like experience that can be great for families or groups. For those looking to enjoy skiing, options near Heavenly Ski Resort or Northstar California are also available, making it easy to hit the slopes.

Minneapolis, MN, USA to Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $330: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Minneapolis to Lake Tahoe

Best Neighborhoods in Lake Tahoe

Best Times To Visit Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Lake Tahoe

Minneapolis - Lake Tahoe operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Minneapolis

Trips to Lake Tahoe

Popular routes