Heavenly Gondola

The Heavenly Gondola is the most accessible way to experience Lake Tahoe from above. Rising 2,500 vertical feet from the base at South Lake Tahoe to an observation deck at 9,123 feet, the gondola provides a 12-minute ride through forest, across granite ridges, and above the tree line to a panoramic viewpoint that showcases the full majesty of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.

The gondola itself is a smooth, quiet ride in enclosed glass cabins that seat up to 8 passengers. The ascent reveals Lake Tahoe unfolding below -- from a sliver of blue through the trees to the full 22-mile-long, 12-mile-wide lake stretching to the distant mountains. Glass floor panels in some cabins add to the experience. Kids press against the windows as the forest canopy drops away.

The observation deck at the top is the payoff. A purpose-built viewing platform offers 360-degree views: Lake Tahoe in its entirety (the second-deepest lake in the US), the Sierra Crest with its 10,000+ foot peaks, Desolation Wilderness, and on clear days, the Nevada desert to the east. Coin-operated telescopes let kids spot specific beaches, boats, and landmarks.

In summer, the mountain-top area adds family activities: an aerial adventure course (ropes, bridges, zip lines), rock climbing wall, and guided mountain biking trails. These are separate tickets. Cafe Blue at the observation deck serves lunch and drinks with views.

The Heavenly Gondola launches from Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe, a pedestrian shopping and dining area. Families often combine the gondola with shopping, dining, and the village atmosphere. In winter, the gondola is the primary access point for Heavenly Mountain Resort's skiing terrain -- one of Tahoe's largest resorts.