5 Picks for Fall Colors in the South Lake Tahoe Area
As with most lists, the inclusion or exclusion of favored spots is subjective. What places on this list have in common is relative ease of access. Additionally, they are all within a 30-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe. I recently visited the Sierras (last week in September) and found that while a handful aspens were just starting to yellow, peak foliage color is still two or three weeks away (mid-October-ish) so there’s still time to plan a trip in advance. Much depends on elevation, microclimates and exposure to the elements. Higher elevation groves tend to change color earlier, while those at lake level keep their green longer. Regardless of when or where you go, the area is stunning year round. However, for optimal enjoyment of foliage color and for the best photographs, I recommend early morning or late afternoon – just after sunrise or before sunset.
