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The TrailHead

2.0 star property
Hotel near Heavenly Gondola in South Lake Tahoe

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Photo gallery for The TrailHead

A clear lake with rocky shores and a mountain in the background.
Snow and ski sports
Honeymoon Suite | Premium bedding, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, WiFi (free)
A cozy hotel room with a wooden headboard, a large bed with a brown and white bedspread, two bedside lamps, and a framed picture on the wall.
King Bed w/ Spa | Bathroom | Free toiletries, hair dryer, towels, soap

Reviews

6.8 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
3892 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150
  • Place, Heavenly Gondola
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, The Shops at Heavenly Village
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Lakeside Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, Lake Tahoe, CA (TVL)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside lamps, a clock, a framed picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • Mountain view
  • 301 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

A hotel room with two queen beds, wooden headboards, a nightstand with a lamp, and two framed pictures on the wall.

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • Mountain view
  • 301 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Honeymoon Suite

A compact living space with a kitchenette, a fireplace, and a television on a wooden stand.

Honeymoon Suite

  • Mountain view
  • 398 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for King - Jetted Tub

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a chair, a mirror, and a painting on the wall.

King - Jetted Tub

  • Mountain view
  • 301 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for King Bed w/ Spa

King Bed w/ Spa | Bathroom | Free toiletries, hair dryer, towels, soap

King Bed w/ Spa

  • Mountain view
  • 350 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

South Lake Tahoe

Near beach, shopping .You'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Heavenly Gondola and 2 miles (3 km) of Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe with a stay here. Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino and Bally's Lake Tahoe Spa are also within 2 miles (3 km).

What's nearby

  • Heavenly Gondola - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • The Shops at Heavenly Village - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Lakeside Beach - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles

Getting around

  • Reno Tahoe Intl. Airport (RNO) - 68 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Base Camp Pizza Co. - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Blue Dog Gourmet Pizza - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Stateline Brewery & Restaurant - ‬13 min walk

About this property

The TrailHead

Hotel near Heavenly Gondola in South Lake Tahoe
As a guest of The TrailHead, you'll find a terrace, a vending machine, and ski storage. Public spaces have free WiFi. The TrailHead also features a picnic area, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this South Lake Tahoe hotel.

  • 36 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1949
  • Ski equipment storage
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Terrace
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • Television in lobby
  • Smoking in designated areas
The TrailHead offers 36 accommodations with hair dryers and irons/ironing boards. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Beds feature premium bedding. 32-inch flat-screen televisions come with premium satellite channels.

This South Lake Tahoe hotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Additionally, rooms include complimentary toiletries and blackout drapes/curtains.

Similar properties

Kayaking
Quality Inn South Lake Tahoe
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  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
3.9 out of 5, Good, 2,057 reviews
$118 nightly
The price is $136
Aug 18 - Aug 19
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Ski shuttle nearby
  • Free secured self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/truck parking on site

Things to do

  • Ski storage
  • TV in common areas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Low-height counter and sink
  • No elevator

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable/satellite channels

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out fee: USD 15.00
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Sunday - Thursday (8:30 AM - 4:00 PM) and Friday - Saturday (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM)
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and lockbox information; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 4:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk, lockbox

Pets

  • Pets: USD 30 per pet, per night
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 pets
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
  • You can request a pet-friendly room by reaching out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 100 per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Pet fee: USD 30 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Late check-out fee: USD 15.00

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, debit cards, and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • Pets are welcome in certain rooms only; other restrictions apply (please see the Fees section for related charges). To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Vagabond Inn Lake Tahoe
Vagabond Inn Motel Lake Tahoe
TrailHead Motel South Lake Tahoe
TrailHead South Lake Tahoe
Vagabond Inn South Lake Tahoe Hotel South Lake Tahoe
The TrailHead Hotel
The TrailHead South Lake Tahoe
The TrailHead Hotel South Lake Tahoe

Frequently asked questions

How close is The TrailHead to the airport?

The TrailHead is 6.2 mi (14-min drive) away from the Lake Tahoe, CA (TVL) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at The TrailHead?

As of Jul 31, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The TrailHead on Aug 23, 2026 start from $94, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does The TrailHead have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at The TrailHead.

How close is The TrailHead to the beach?

This hotel is 0.7 mi (2-min drive) from Lakeside Beach and 5 mi (10-min drive) from Zephyr Cove Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does The TrailHead offer free breakfast?

The TrailHead does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The TrailHead?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe (15-min walk) and Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino (17-min walk) are nearby.

What time is check-in at The TrailHead?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight.

Is there free parking at The TrailHead?

This hotel offers free self parking.

Does The TrailHead have a pool?

The TrailHead does not have a pool.

Does The TrailHead have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is The TrailHead to downtown South Lake Tahoe?

The TrailHead is 1.7 mi away from South Lake Tahoe.

The TrailHead Reviews

Reviews

6.8
Rating 10 - Excellent. 172 out of 678 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 182 out of 678 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 124 out of 678 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 91 out of 678 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 109 out of 678 reviews

6.8/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.0/10

Amenities

6.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

john

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
great stay, had to figure out how to get my keys, finally saw the hotel sent checkin instructions in the app to retrieve my key
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Martin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff went above and beyond to occomadate for our needs place was very nice
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

ANDREW

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I've stayed in most of South Lake's "cheap" hotels over the years for 1-nighters between ski days, and this one was probably the best for the price. Spacious with a good bed and good shower. No frills, but thoughtful decorative touches made Trailhead feel fresh, mountain-y and welcoming.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jesica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The staff were so friendly and helpful and the price was unbeatable!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

ALMA

Liked: Cleanliness
The room was very clean, I felt super comfortable! The staff was amazing and super welcoming! I loved it!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Miriam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Everything was perfect
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anthony

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It’ was perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amier

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Amazing, loved the spa!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Helpful staff, great location, good parking and the room is comfortable and has everything I need.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Angelica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
A great deal for a short stay in Tahoe. My wife and I hooked the room with the private jetted tub. It was a decent, clean on our arrival. It's a basic room for a standard price. It is a five star stay for the staff! My wife forgot her inhaler and they were kind enough to call us after we checked out so we could grab it. What service! We will be staying here again next time we are in town.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Nilanjan

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was very good experience staying there for two nights with family.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Austin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Was fantastic, staff was super caring .
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Mahsa

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Samuel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Was really great
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice place in a great location Raymond was a good host Very helpful no hassles at all
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

6/10 Okay

michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Room was clean but the mattress was deplorable. Like sleeping in a taco shell, no support. Staff was incredibly friendly and polite. Without them our trip would have been miserable.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Mauro Cesar

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Small showers, good bed.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

marco

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy check in helpful staff and the room was clean
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Pamela

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
This place sent a message my credit card was invalid I have receipt. Then accused me of hitting a car in parking lot and said police came. Left a note on car saying come to office about the accident. The guy who owned car would not listen. Then came out 1 hour later as we were packing and talking to police on phone and said oh sorry we checked cameras it was not you. Don't stay here RUN. HORRIBLE CRAP TO WAKE UP TO.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The stay was pleasant.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Cody Haven

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Got text checking us in, told there’s lockbox with key, front desk open the next day at 8am. Doubt they change the codes to lockboxes so anyone can open and get key to room. And no front desk on a sat? There was a lot of trash around the complex. Back yard, pool. Lots of smokers and wear and tear in the room. Location was good.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rodrigo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Easy check in.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rahul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Overall good.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey

Liked: Staff & service
Spa was a nice touch and Julie is the nicest, most generous lady I have experienced in a long time!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

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