The weather in Lake Tahoe during the spring is a mixed bag. It’s not as cold as it gets in the winter, but you can expect temperatures to be unpredictable and maybe even a little snow. The last time I photographed an elopement in April, an unexpected storm blew through the mountains, leaving a gorgeous dusting of snow in the distant peaks and only a few days later, it was sunny and 60’s lakeside. If you’re looking for an early-season adventure and some gorgeous wedding pictures, eloping in Lake Tahoe during the spring will get the job done.

Spring Pro Tip: Since it’s a bit of an off-season for the resort-heavy area, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices on lodging.

Sunny days with blue skies and temperatures that hit 75+ degrees make summer one of the most popular times of year to elope in Lake Tahoe. But you won’t be the only one heading up for a rugged retreat as the area gets packed with tourists traveling from all over the world once kids are out of school. These factors might give you pause if privacy is important to you, so it’s definitely something you’ll want to discuss with your partner before booking any flights or accommodations.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the warm summer weather increases the risk of forest fires greatly during late July and August, particularly since 2017 was declared California’s fifth-worst wildfire season ever. Fire season extends into September and sometimes October if there aren’t any early winter storms.

Summer Pro Tip: If you decide on a summer elopement, there are tons of activities you can do as a couple in the area. You could spend time hiking through stunning mountains, hitting some golf balls at one of the many beautiful courses around town, or kayaking in the turquoise waters. If you choose to have an all-day celebration, these activities can be incorporated into your day!

As the weather in Lake Tahoe starts to change and cool down during the fall months, the area becomes a lot less crowded – making it a great time to elope! A lot of the same summer activities are still an option, although the water and weather temps begin to quickly drop in September and early season snowstorms aren’t entirely uncommon! If you’re cool with fall foliage or unexpected snow, this is a great time of year to consider for your elopement. That being said, wildfires can always occur anytime; especially with unpredictable autumn weather patterns – keep abreast of current conditions!

Fall Pro Tip: During any other time of year, some parts of Lake Tahoe (particularly near where it borders Nevada) become far too windy to allow a boat-based ceremony – but by fall the breeze has cooled down enough to ensure a beautiful sunset in those locations.

During the coldest months of the year, Lake Tahoe is ideal for those who want to get married in the midst of a dreamy winter wonderland. The lake itself isn’t frozen over, but Tahoe’s ski resorts (and roads) get incredibly busy as people travel from around the state to hit the slopes. With potential snowfall come crowds of people that descend on the area, making it a bit more challenging, and costly, to stay in the region. Also, some storms can be so severe that access to the area is completely closed off due to dangerous driving conditions. Having a backup plan is always ideal, regardless of the season, but it’s more important during unpredictable weather.

Winter Pro Tip: Avoid weekend weddings to experience Lake Tahoe at its best and least crowded. There’s nothing worse than getting trapped in hours of traffic as you try to reach the area only to then wait hours for a table at a restaurant or in an endless line at the ski lift.

The least glamorous part of having an adventurous, outdoor elopement on public lands is navigating the permitting process. However, that doesn’t make it any less important to both protect these areas from overuse, but to also ensure you won’t be kicked out mid-ceremony and hit with a hefty fine by a park ranger. Lake Tahoe is unique in that it crosses through two different states, California and Nevada, and is filled with a variety of local, state and federal parks, each of which have their own restrictions and rules. If you’re going to elope in the area, expect it to take at least four weeks to get proper approvals from the local authorities. However, the further out you can apply for your permits, the better as many spots book up months in advance.

While you don’t have to hike to experience Lake Tahoe, hiking is certainly one of my favorite things to do around here. The hiking trails in Lake Tahoe are endless and depending on your taste, are sure to suit your fancy: whether it’s an easy stroll or a heart-pumping challenge, you’ll find it here, as well as picturesque photo opportunities awaiting on every trail.

Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal clear, vibrantly blue water and numerous beaches. The most popular swimming areas include Sand Harbor, Lakeview and Baldwin Beach on Nevada’s side of Lake Tahoe, and Camp Richardson Beach, and Cave Rock Beach. You can also enjoy a dip from Gar Woods Bay, Lone Eagle Beach and Emerald Bay if you want to venture a little further off. The best places to swim in Lake Tahoe are based on personal preference; what one person enjoys might not be appealing to someone else. If you prefer your beaches with fewer crowds, consider any of those mentioned above that fall within Lake Tahoe State Park or Incline Village to keep things quiet. What could be more fun than a beach picnic and swim after saying your vows?

I’m a big fan of kayaking in Tahoe to get experience the lake from a different perspective – and to reach some hidden, secluded beaches that are only accessible by water. There are plenty of places to rent and explore on your own, or you could even take a guided tour.

Another fun idea is river tubing/floating! The Truckee River is a prime place to go tubing if the weather and water levels are right. You can also take an organized and leisurely rafting trip there as well.

It goes without saying that this is a prime location for winter sports! Lake Tahoe is surrounded by world class resorts where you can get in some incredible runs, skiing and snowboarding. Want to get far away from anyone else to say your vows? Consider a snowmobile tour where you head out across a mountain meadow for unapparelled views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you’re interested in something more low key, there’s always tubing and sledding nearby.