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Salt Lake City, UT, USA to Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $100: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Salt Lake City, United States of America
to
Lake Tahoe, United States of America

How to Get from Salt Lake City 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.

$100 - OtherBest price
724 kmDistance
6h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Salt Lake City 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.

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$86-371
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  42m
Estimated price
$100-150
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 724 km
Duration: 6h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
12h  12m
Estimated price
$230-860
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  12m
Estimated price
$235-459
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Traveling From Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe

Your journey from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe unfolds a tapestry of urban vibrancy blending seamlessly with serene mountain landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe's neighborhoods offer distinctive atmospheres and activities for every traveler.

South Lake Tahoe
• Bustling nightlife and entertainment options
• Close proximity to stunning beaches
Emerald Bay
• Breathtaking views from scenic overlooks
• Ideal spot for hiking and photography
Northstar
• Premier ski resort with family-friendly activities
• Vibrant village with shopping and dining options

Best Times To Visit Lake Tahoe's Attractions

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

Heavenly Mountain Resort
Visit during mid-week in the winter for shorter lift lines and more skiing time.
Emerald Bay State Park
spring or early fall offers cooler weather and fewer tourists.
Lake Tahoe Beaches
Late afternoon in summer provides stunning sunsets and a relaxed vibe.

Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lake Tahoe experiences a diverse climate with snowy winters ideal for skiing and warm summers perfect for hiking and beach activities. Planning your trip around seasonal weather patterns can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.

Dining in Lake Tahoe: A Unique Culinary Experience

At The Lake House, indulge in their signature smoked trout dip, showcasing the region's fresh fish and laid-back lakeside atmosphere. This culinary gem offers a refreshing contrast to Salt Lake City's dining scene, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an inviting ambiance that invites you to savor every bite.

Salt Lake City - Lake Tahoe operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Reno Airport (RNO)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$150-862

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Sacramento Airport (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$863-862
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Reno Airport (RNO)

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$150-862

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Sacramento Airport (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$863-864

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Sacramento Airport (SMF) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$863-864
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Sacramento Airport (SMF) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
3h 59m
Estimated price
$865-866
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salt Lake City to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration
11h 7m
Estimated price
$867-868
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
866-898-2463
Website
southtahoeairporter.com

Bus from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Ltrh

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$3716-861

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
530-412-1927

Other from Truckee Amtrak Station to South Lake Tahoe

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$2352-3714

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

Traveling between Salt Lake City 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: The Amtrak California Zephyr serves the route between Salt Lake City and Lake Tahoe. Onboard catering services include a café car offering a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages for purchase. Menu options can range from breakfast items to lunch and dinner selections, featuring vegetarian choices as well. You can enjoy your food in the designated seating area or bring it back to your seat.
Seating Options: The Amtrak California Zephyr offers options including Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class provides comfortable seating with ample legroom, while Business Class offers larger seats and complimentary beverages. First Class features roomy seats with extra legroom, priority boarding, and a higher level of service. Consider booking in Business or First Class for a more spacious and comfortable experience.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at the Truckee station, which is the closest Amtrak stop to Lake Tahoe, you'll find that there's no luggage storage available at the station. It's a good idea to arrive prepared to carry your belongings with you. Restrooms are available at the station, but showers are not. To navigate your arrival effectively, check for local shuttles or rideshare options at the station to head into Lake Tahoe.
🚌 The journey from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe takes approximately 1 day and 2 hours covering a distance of 890 miles with 6 transfers along the way.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe.

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The distance between Salt Lake City and Lake Tahoe is approximately 530 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 8-9 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can also fly from Salt Lake City to Reno, which is the nearest airport to Lake Tahoe, and then drive for about 1.5-2 hours to reach your final destination. Public transportation options are limited between these two cities, so driving or flying are the most common choices for travelers.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe would typically be to drive your own car or rent a car for the journey. This allows for flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the way. If you prefer not to drive, flying from Salt Lake City to Reno and then renting a car for the remaining leg of the journey could be another efficient option, though it may cost more than driving. Public transportation options are limited between these two destinations, so driving or flying followed by a rental car are the most practical choices for most travelers.
The prices for traveling from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Driving your own car or renting a car would incur costs such as gas, tolls, and possibly accommodation if you choose to break up the journey. Flying from Salt Lake City to Reno and then renting a car for the remaining distance would involve airfare, rental car fees, and possibly additional fees for luggage or seat selection. It's important to compare these costs and factor in any additional expenses to determine the most economical option for your trip from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe.
To travel from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, you have a few options. You can drive your own car or a rental car, which would give you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore different areas. Another option is to carpool with friends or family to share the driving responsibilities and costs. If flying, you can book a direct flight from Salt Lake City to Reno and then rent a car to drive the rest of the way to Lake Tahoe.
If you prefer not to use a car, you can consider flying from Salt Lake City to Reno, the nearest airport to Lake Tahoe. From Reno, you can take a shuttle service or a private car service to reach Lake Tahoe. Another option is to take a bus or organized tour from Salt Lake City to Lake Tahoe, although these options may have limited schedules and availability. Lastly, you could also explore the possibility of carpooling with other travelers heading to Lake Tahoe to share a ride and costs.
There is no direct link, such as a direct train or bus route, between Salt Lake City and Lake Tahoe. The most common ways to travel between these two locations are by car, plane, or a combination of both. These options may involve a connecting flight, shuttle service, or driving through multiple states to reach Lake Tahoe from Salt Lake City. While there is no direct link, various transportation methods can still facilitate your journey between the two destinations.
The flight between Salt Lake City and Lake Tahoe typically takes around 1.5-2 hours, including flight time and layovers if applicable. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel dates, but prices generally range from $150 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It's worth comparing prices and booking in advance to secure the best deals for your travel between these two destinations.
There are numerous accommodation options near Lake Tahoe catering to various budgets and preferences. You can find hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, cabins, and campgrounds in popular areas such as South Lake Tahoe and Stateline. It's recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates. Additionally, many accommodations offer stunning views of the lake and convenient access to outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and boating.

Trips from Salt Lake City

Trips to Lake Tahoe