Kirkwood is a tiny picturesque mountain town located just over half an hour south of Lake Tahoe, near California’s border with Nevada. Mountains and forest envelop the town, from Eldorado National Forest in the east to Hawkins Peak in the west. The nearby town of South Lake Tahoe sits on the edge of the world-renowned Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. The southern section of the lake is easily accessible from Kirkwood for walking or cycling along the edge of the sparkling blue water, tucked under soaring green hills.

The town’s main road bends in a U shape as it weaves its way around low-slung wooden buildings surrounded by pine trees, while the nearby mountainside offers a wide range of winding ski runs in the winter and scenic hiking trails in the summer. Those in the know head here for the first snow of the season, with experienced skiers keen to take on “The Wall” — a double black diamond run with a fearsome reputation — and plenty of the 40 miles of slopes accessible for beginners.

There’s a myriad of outdoor activities on offer in Kirkwood all year round. During the ski season, which usually lasts from mid-November until early April, there are 2,300 acres of local trails for downhill skiing to suit any experience level. March is considered to be one of the best months for skiing, with an abundance of fresh snow and clear skies, making cabins in Kirkwood especially popular. In the summer, the mountainside offers miles of hiking trails with sweeping views over the South Lake Tahoe area. The fall offers a quieter time to visit Kirkwood, and this is also when South Lake Tahoe plays host to the a food festival that celebrates locally-grown produce, the region’s wineries and breweries, and handcrafted jewelry and textiles.

Lake Tahoe

One of the region’s biggest draws, Lake Tahoe is an alpine lake famous for its pristine beaches and nearby ski resorts. The lakeside town of South Lake Tahoe is located just under 40 minutes away from Kirkwood and serves as the southern gateway for this immensely beautiful scenery, where you can fish for rainbow trout and catch a glimpse of crimson snow plants in the surrounding forests.

Caples Lake

Sitting on the edge of town, Caples Lake has been used as a rest stop and recreation area by Native Americans, settlers, and Gold Rush miners over the decades. With six miles of shoreline, Caples Lake is a peaceful place to swim, fish, or paddle. The nearby mountains are reflected in the lake’s placid waters, and the surrounding Eldorado National Forest provides ample opportunities for hikes through untouched nature.

Lake Margaret Trailhead

The Lake Margaret Trailhead is located a short walk from Kirkwood and takes you through five miles of beautiful forests and meadows as you meander along the emerald banks of Caples Creek before finally reaching tranquil Lake Margaret. Be prepared for changing terrain, and the streams can run high after heavy rain.