Heavenly Gondola is a short stroll from The TrailHead, and other popular attractions like Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe are within a mile (2 km). The 36 rooms at this hotel include microwaves, flat-screen TVs, and premium bedding.
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
Blue Dog Gourmet Pizza - 11 min walk
Starbucks - 8 min walk
Chipotle Mexican Grill - 12 min walk
About this property
The TrailHead
The TrailHead features free WiFi in public areas, express check-in, and express check-out. Free parking is available if you drive. Additional amenities include a terrace, a picnic area, and a vending machine.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Microwaves and ironing boards are other standard amenities.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
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
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 satellite premium channels
Food and drink
Microwave
Mini-fridge
More
Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
Heating (climate-controlled)
Individually decorated
Individually furnished
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
This property welcomes pets for USD 30 per pet, per night
Dogs only
2 total pets
Pets may not be left unsupervised
Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Service animals exempt from fees
Property payment types
Important information
Fees
You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:
Deposit: USD 100 per stay
These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.
Optional extras
These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.
Pet fee: USD 30 per pet, per night
Service animals are exempt from fees
Late check-out fee: USD 15.00
This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.
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
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free RV, bus, and truck parking.
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
There are no elevators.
No cribs or infant beds are available.
No rollaway or extra beds are available.
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
Are free cancellation options available at The TrailHead?
The TrailHead offers free cancellation on some room rates. To learn more, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.
How much does it cost to stay at The TrailHead?
As of Nov 1, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The TrailHead on Nov 2, 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.
What's there to do close to The TrailHead?
This hotel is located in South Lake Tahoe, a short 11-minute walk from Heavenly Gondola and also 12 minutes on foot from The Shops at Heavenly Village. You'll also find Casino at Harrah's Lake Tahoe and Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Casino less than a mile away.
Will I be able to park at The TrailHead?
Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Free RV/bus/truck parking is also available for guests.
Does The TrailHead include a casino?
No, The TrailHead doesn't have a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at The TrailHead?
No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.
What amenities will couples enjoy at The TrailHead?
Couples staying at this hotel will value amenities like premium bedding, a private indoor hot tub in some guestrooms, as well as a terrace.
Are there hot tubs at The TrailHead?
No, but some guestrooms at this hotel feature jetted bathtubs.
Does The TrailHead have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?
No, The TrailHead doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.
Will The TrailHead allow pets to stay for free?
Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at The TrailHead for a fee of USD 30 per pet, per night.
Are there connecting rooms at The TrailHead?
No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.
How far is the airport from The TrailHead?
The closest major airport to The TrailHead is Lake Tahoe, CA (TVL), which is 6.2 mi away (14 minutes by car). Another top airport is Truckee, CA (TKF-Truckee Tahoe), which is around 27.5 mi away.
Can I book a room with a balcony at The TrailHead?
No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at The TrailHead.
The TrailHead Reviews
Reviews
6.8
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
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
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
Great location walking distance to dinning. The outside of property is a bit ruff looking. No problems so, for the price not bad.
Debbie
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review
6/10 Okay
Zachary
Aug 2, 2026
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.
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.
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.
ANDREW
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
ALMA
Feb 15, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
The room was very clean, I felt super comfortable! The staff was amazing and super welcoming! I loved it!
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
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.
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.