It’s officially fall, although in San Francisco it can feel more like summer than a typically cozy autumn this time of year. Luckily, plenty of wonderful places near San Francisco have autumn leaves, perfect for a day or weekend trip, and one particularly beautiful escape is Lake Tahoe.
While Lake Tahoe is primarily known as a winter and summer destination, due to its many ski slopes and water sports, the fall is a wonderful time to visit to experience some autumn charm (plus you can avoid the crowds).
Desolation Hotel in Hope Valley
Desolation Hotel in Hope Valley is just a 30-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, and this fall is the perfect time to visit. The resort sits on 165 acres at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The resort features multiple hiking trails, including an 8.2-mile loop.
The resort features many accommodations to choose from, such as wood cabins, luxury yurts, and a campground available for guests. The historic log cabins are refurbished to be upscale while still staying true to the classic log cabin design with cozy fireplaces and charming porches.
The resort is expansive, with 28 cabins that can host between two and six people, while larger groups of eight to 10 can reserve the Hope Valley House, which boasts three bedrooms and two large porches. If you want to feel a little more connected with nature, you can stay in a yurt, with the option to try the “off-the-grid yurt,” complete with solar panels to charge phones.
The resort features two dining options: an upscale restaurant perfect for a night out with cocktails and wine, or a more casual bar and grill stocked with burgers, chicken tenders, and fries. Finally, we recommend checking out the Sauna on site to end your day.
Desolation Hotel also has a location in South Lake Tahoe, within walking distance of the Heavenly Gondola, with studios, townhomes, and suites available for guests. You can learn more about Desolation Hotel on its website here. Desolation Hotel is approximately a three- to four-hour drive from San Francisco.