Snowshoeing With Kids in Lake Tahoe: Tips to Make Their First Adventure Fun & Easy

If you’re planning a trip to Tahoe but aren’t sure how to get the kids out there safely without too much hectic activity, like lift tickets or steep learning curves, snowshoeing is the perfect way to enjoy the snow together. If they can walk, they can snowshoe, which makes it a great option for families with kids between the ages of 5 and 12.

Just making sure everyone is comfortably prepared with the right clothes and choosing a safe, easy trail are really the two keys to a great time.

Why Snowshoeing Is One of the Best Winter Activities for Kids

What’s so nice about taking kids snowshoeing is that there’s no strict structure. No specific line they’re supposed to follow or technical skills to get frustrated over. The kids can just move at their own pace, laughing, exploring, and enjoying the snow. 

Finding an easy place to navigate is a great first step, which is why we take people to North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. The best spots in these areas are often wide open meadows and forest trails that don’t require a lot of effort. The routes we use are low angle, so there’s minimal hiking up or down steep switchbacks. It’s an easy, low key way to enjoy nature without the crowds or resort focused activity found in more developed areas.

Dress Kids for Comfort and Movement (Not Just Cold)

Allowing a child to experience the beauty of the forest isn’t always easy, but getting them ready with proper clothing so they stay warm will make the experience much smoother. 

Dress kids in three layers:

• A moisture-wicking base layer

• A warm insulating mid-layer

• A waterproof jacket and snow pants

The most important thing is waterproof boots with good traction, paired with thick, insulated socks. Mittens are also important for keeping little fingers warm.

Bringing nutritious snacks, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof bag to carry everything helps ensure you’re prepared, even if kids start to get tired or cranky.

Snowshoeing is for fun, not exercise! 

Of course, snowshoeing is exercise, but you don’t need to tell the kids that. One way to keep kids engaged is by setting up scavenger hunts and track spotting games. Simple activities like seeing who can find the quietest place help kids stay curious and involved. Get wrapped up in the activities and everyone will remember how fun it was.

Choose Family-Friendly Snowshoe Locations in Lake Tahoe

North Tahoe Regional Park (Tahoe Vista): Groomed winter trails, gentle elevation, and nearby snow play areas make this one of the easiest places to snowshoe with kids. It’s ideal for short outings and mixed-activity days.

Martis Valley (near Truckee): Wide open meadows and minimal elevation change give kids room to explore without fatigue. Wildlife tracks are common, which adds an educational element to the experience.

Donner Memorial State Park: Flat trails near Donner Lake offer scenic winter views without steep climbs. Easy parking and access reduce stress for families with younger kids.

These are the kind of spots families can navigate without needing technical skills or extensive planning. They’re ideal places to get outside and enjoy Lake Tahoe’s winter landscape at an easy, comfortable pace.

Maintaining Safety is Key to Good Fun!

Having extra socks, snacks, and water helps ensure a safe and comfortable trip. We also recommend knowing your route before you start and choosing a trail that’s short enough for everyone to return with plenty of energy. Keep children within sight at all times.

Bring extra layers for breaks, monitor hands and feet for cold, and encourage regular hydration. Tahoe’s dry mountain air makes dehydration easy, even in winter.

If you’d like added support, consider our guided snowshoe tours in Lake Tahoe. They allow families to enjoy the experience while knowing routes and conditions are being handled by experienced guides.

Why Snowshoeing With Kids in Tahoe Works So Well

This is a special opportunity to spend time in the snow without competition or pressure. Snowshoeing is about slowing down and noticing the natural environment around you. It offers a chance to step away from everyday noise and enjoy the quiet beauty of winter landscapes.

Lake Tahoe is especially well suited for snowshoeing thanks to its consistent snowfall and wide open vistas across forested terrain and surrounding mountains. With the right preparation, it can be a winter outing your kids will remember for years to come.