The TrailHead

Property class: 2

Photo gallery for The TrailHead

A wooden table with a lamp, a wooden chair, and a bathtub.
A dog partially buried in snow with a metal structure in the background.
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.
A compact kitchen with a wooden countertop, a sink, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. There are framed pictures on the wall and a window with blinds.
A covered porch with two chairs and a view of trees and a vehicle in the background.

Reviews

6.8 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
The current price is AU$104
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov

Explore the area

View map
3892 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150
  • Place, Heavenly Gondola
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino
    ‪15 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

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking

  • Mountain view
  • 28 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Honeymoon Suite

  • Mountain view
  • 37 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

King - Jetted Tub

  • Mountain view
  • 28 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

King Bed w/ Spa

  • Mountain view
  • 33 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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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
  • ‪Blue Dog Gourmet Pizza - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬12 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

  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

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 10 Nov 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The TrailHead on 11 Nov 2026 start from AU$104, 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. 191 out of 715 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 187 out of 715 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 130 out of 715 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 95 out of 715 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 112 out of 715 reviews

6.8/10

Cleanliness

7.4/10

Staff & service

6.0/10

Amenities

6.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was a nice place to stay for 2 nights, being busy both days and basically just sleeping there. Walking distance to the Edgewood Golf Course, which is why I was in town
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location and staff helpful. Walking distance to stateline. Reasonable rates
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very enjoyable location, I like The old school taste to the property keeps it conventional & for a great price.staff was very helpful with my booking. Close to all restaurants walking distance. Beautiful scenery. I would say give this place a try. Thanks trailhead for the clean room an appreciate the helpful staff for my after hours arrival
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location walking distance to dinning. The outside of property is a bit ruff looking. No problems so, for the price not bad.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
The room is in need of an update. The carpet was visibly decades old. The air conditioner cycled every few minutes and was loud. The location is great, easy to walk most places. Its fine for a night, wouldn't stay longer.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Large clean room. Good showers. I had no interaction with staff, so nothing bad or good to say about that. It’s an older lodge, so don’t expect newer accommodations. Is in a great location to walk & shop or eat.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

4/10 Poor

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Building could use a remodel Smelled of smoke even in a non smoking room Had a bunch of baby mosquitoes dead and alive in the bathroom area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

8/10 Good

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

2/10 Terrible

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Could not sleep due to air conditioner sounding like a diesel truck all night
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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

8/10 Good

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

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The jacuzzi had some issues. We had to wait to fill it because the got water ran out. Also, the air from the jets smelled bad.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

8/10 Good

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were clean just had a weird smell but nothing to bad the ac was working so room was nice and cold working tv and microwave with a mini fridge it was nice and cozy the only thing is that the stairs are a bit old and need work staff was great they communicated perfectly no issues
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Consider no internet. No antenna and when it does connect, it is so slow it doesn’t even load a page. No coffee maker in the room. Ok clean but the old look will throw you off. Staff were nice.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

6/10 Okay

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Took half hour to check in. They didn’t recognize my two night reservation. I had to go get my confirmation to prove it. Charged me $116 for one night; cancelled that. Then charged the $188 for two nights. Lots of confusion. And aggravation after a tough day of travel. Room 121 had no chair so I brought one in from outside. Pool was inoperable looks like for ten years. Giant crater pot hole at beginning of driveway and 50. Dangerous on motorcycle. Place has seen better days. Looks like the place has residents. All kinds of skinny people walking around really slowly.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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