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Portland, OR, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $120: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Portland 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.

$120 - OtherBest price
1106 kmDistance
6h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland 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
6h  7m
Estimated price
$118-330
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  51m
Estimated price
$120-180
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1106 km
Duration: 6h 7m

See more options

Company
FlixBus, Amtrak, Tahoe Transportation
Bus
Average Duration
16h  35m
Estimated price
$118-150
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  3m
Estimated price
$130-410
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
19h  46m
Estimated price
$1181-1182
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Traveling From Portland to South Lake Tahoe

Traveling from Portland’s vibrant urban scene to the serene beauty of South Lake Tahoe offers a striking contrast between dynamic city life and tranquil natural landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

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

Stateline
• Close proximity to casinos and nightlife
• Stunning views of the lake
South Lake Tahoe City
• Vibrant dining and shopping options
• Easy access to beaches and parks
Heavenly Valley
• Premier skiing and snowboarding area
• Scenic gondola rides available year-round

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in South Lake Tahoe.

Heavenly Ski Resort
Visit weekdays in January or February for fewer crowds and great snow.
Emerald Bay State Park
Go early in the morning during late spring for stunning views and tranquility.
South Lake Tahoe Beaches
Late afternoon in September offers warm weather and less busy beaches.

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

South Lake Tahoe enjoys a varied climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Planning your visit around seasonal weather can enhance activities, whether you're hitting the slopes in winter or hiking in summer.

Dining Recommendation in South Lake Tahoe

Try the fresh lake fish tacos at The Fresh Ketch, where locally sourced ingredients and a laid-back waterfront atmosphere create a dining experience that stands apart from Portland's trendy eateries. The vibrant flavors of the tacos, combined with the stunning lake views, offer a unique taste of the region's culinary heritage.

Portland - South Lake Tahoe operators

Explore transport companies operating between Portland 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 Portland (PDX) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$150-500

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$130-410
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$130-1180

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$110-500
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Portland to Sacramento

Average Duration
16h 6m
Estimated price
$1181-1182
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Portland Curbside Bus Stop to Sacramento

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$118-150

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

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

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Portland 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 an epic road trip from Portland to South Lake Tahoe spanning 687 miles of scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. Buckle up for an approximately 11-hour journey filled with adventure and breathtaking views along the way. 💰 Budget-savvy travelers will appreciate the cost-effective options available for this road trip, with prices ranging from $120 to $180 for the entire journey. Explore the possibility of splitting the cost with travel companions to make the trip even more affordable and enjoyable.
Average price
$120 - $180
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Portland to South Lake Tahoe by plane is to fly to Reno Airport, which takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. This direct flight is offered by Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines, Inc. 🏞️ Upon landing at Reno Airport, travelers can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to cover the remaining 60-mile distance to South Lake Tahoe. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Departure Point
Portland Airport
Arrival Point
Reno Airport
🚌 The journey from Portland to South Lake Tahoe by bus is not direct, requiring transfers in Sacramento and South Y Transit Center. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 16 hours and 35 minutes. 🛣️ Route: The trip covers a distance of 702 miles and involves one transfer. The first leg of the journey is a 13-hour bus ride from Portland to Sacramento via Flixbus USA. The second leg is a 2.5-hour bus ride from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe operated by El Dorado Transit. 🏞️ Upon arriving at South Lake Tahoe, passengers will disembark at the South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station after a total travel time of 16 hours and 35 minutes. While the journey may be lengthy, it offers the opportunity to admire the scenic beauty along the way from Oregon to California.
Departure Point
Portland Curbside Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Portland and South Lake Tahoe is 478 miles. The road distance is longer at 687.4 miles. If you choose to fly, it takes approximately 6 hours and 8 minutes, with a layover in Reno, then taking a bus. If you prefer to drive, it will take about 11 hours and 51 minutes to reach Portland from South Lake Tahoe. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which will take approximately 17 hours and 59 minutes to travel from Portland to South Lake Tahoe.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Portland to South Lake Tahoe is by driving, which takes approximately 11 hours and 51 minutes and costs around $120 to $180 for gas and tolls. However, if you prioritize saving time, flying and then taking a bus is the quickest option, taking only 6 hours and 8 minutes but costing slightly more at $120 to $340. Both options have their advantages depending on your budget and time constraints.
To travel from Portland to South Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you can drive the 687-mile distance. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 51 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Portland to South Lake Tahoe can vary, with prices ranging between $120 and $180 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Portland to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and 59 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket will vary depending on the bus service you choose. It is recommended to check the bus schedules and fares in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
There is no direct link between Portland and South Lake Tahoe by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey starts at Portland Curbside Bus Stop and includes transfers at Richards Blvd & Sequoia Pacific Blvd, Sacramento, and South Y Transit Center. The total travel time for this bus route is approximately 17 hours and 59 minutes.
The flight from Portland to South Lake Tahoe typically takes 1 hour and 26 minutes. This is a direct flight from Portland Airport to Reno Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and airline. It is recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites to get an accurate price for the specific dates of travel.
There is a wide range of accommodation options near South Lake Tahoe with over 640 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $35 per night, so there are options available for various budgets. Visitors can find hotels near the lake or in other areas of South Lake Tahoe that suit their preferences and needs. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Portland

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