The TrailHead

2.0 star property

Photo gallery for The TrailHead

A clear lake with rocky shores and a mountain in the background.
Snow and ski sports
King Bed w/ Spa | Bathroom
Family Suite
A cozy kitchen with wooden floors, a dog, shelves with various items, a clock, and a fish tank.

Reviews

6.8 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
The current price is AU$267
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July

Explore the area

View 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

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking

  • Mountain view
  • 28 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free Wi-Fi

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • Mountain view
  • 28 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free Wi-Fi

Honeymoon Suite

  • Mountain view
  • 37 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free Wi-Fi

King - Jetted Tub

  • Mountain view
  • 28 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free Wi-Fi

King Bed w/ Spa

  • Mountain view
  • 33 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free Wi-Fi

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About the area

South Lake Tahoe

At The TrailHead you'll be within a 20-minute stroll of Heavenly Gondola and Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe. Highlights at this hotel include free in-room WiFi. .This pet-friendly hotel offers free WiFi in public areas, a terrace and a picnic area. Other amenities include ski storage, express check-in and express check-out. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .Sights within a 20-minute walk of this South Lake Tahoe hotel include Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino and Bally's Lake Tahoe Spa.

What's nearby

  • Heavenly Gondola - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • The Shops at Heavenly Village - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Lakeside Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km

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
  • ‪Stateline Brewery & Restaurant - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬8 min walk

About this property

The TrailHead

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 a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board. 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 free toiletries and blackout curtains.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transport

  • Ski shuttle nearby
  • Free secured self parking on site
  • Free RV/bus/lorry parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking

Things to do

  • Ski storage
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Mini-fridge

Conveniences

  • Vending machine

Outdoors

  • In a nature reserve
  • In the mountains
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

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 lift

More

  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1949
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

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

Entertainment

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

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 and check-out are available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out
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.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

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-authorise 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 guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, debit cards and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise 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 all 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

What is the cancellation policy at The TrailHead?

The TrailHead offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at The TrailHead?

As of 5 July 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The TrailHead on 7 July 2026 start from AU$267, 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.

Is parking available at The TrailHead?

Yep, The TrailHead has a free self car park and free RV/bus/truck parking.

Are there any beaches close to The TrailHead?

Yep, The TrailHead is a short 19-minute walk from Lakeside Beach. Fun beach activities include jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can also find motor boats and boat tours.

Is there a spa on site at The TrailHead?

No, there is no spa at this property. Serenity Spa is a short 10-minute walk away.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at The TrailHead?

No, The TrailHead does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at The TrailHead?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 11 AM.

The TrailHead Reviews

Reviews

6.8
Rating 10 - Excellent. 168 out of 664 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 178 out of 664 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 123 out of 664 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 90 out of 664 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 105 out of 664 reviews

6.8/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.0/10

Amenities

6.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Miriam

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

10/10 Excellent

Anthony

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Amier

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

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

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

8/10 Good

Mahsa

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Austin

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

10/10 Excellent

Samuel

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

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

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

6/10 Okay

Mauro Cesar

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

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

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

2/10 Terrible

Amber

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was dirty, smelled and there was people smoking outside. Didn't feel comfortable having my kids at the hotel. We ended up getting a different hotel down the street.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

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

10/10 Excellent

Rahul

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

10/10 Excellent

Rodrigo

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

2/10 Terrible

Torben

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Unfortunately, the room was very unsatisfactory for the price. The carpet smelled of dog, the curtains had stains, the blinds were broken, the bed frame itself was broken on one corner, there were tons of flies, etc. I am pretty upset as the pictures show the room in a MUCH improved state and that is what I expected. It was embarrassing, I booked the "honeymoon suite" and it legitimately felt like a dingy room you take a hooker to. The oddly positioned couches did not help with this sense either. My wife, upon entering, said it looks like they shoot pornography videos here. Embarrassing for a special night, right? I am a working class local and I do not have exceeding expectations for a room in SLT but this was really sub par.
I mean… seriously?
Disgusting.
Casting couch.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason

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