Incline Village might not be the first place that pops into your head when you think about vegan travel in the USA. But trust me: this tiny, beautiful mountain town on the north-east shore of Lake Tahoe is more plant-based friendly than most people expect! Surrounded by pine forests, sparkling blue water, and some of the most stunning hiking trails in the Sierra Nevada, Incline Village is a dream destination for vegan travellers who love nature, clean food, and a slower pace of life.
Whether you are planning a summer adventure, a ski trip in winter, or just a quiet weekend escape, this guide covers everything you need to know. From the best vegan-friendly restaurants to incredible outdoor activities and the most comfortable Incline Village vacation rentals - let's get into it!
Incline Village sits on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, just under an hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport. It's smaller and quieter than South Lake Tahoe, but that is exactly why many travellers love it. There are no casinos dominating the vibe, no overcrowded boardwalks - just clear blue water, mountain air, and a community that genuinely values the outdoors.
As a vegan, you'll find that the town's focus on organic, local, and healthy food works in your favour. Many restaurants use seasonal produce, and chefs here are used to catering to dietary preferences. Add to that the fact that cooking in your own Incline vacation rental gives you full control over your meals, and you start to see why this destination works so well for plant-based travellers!
The town is beautiful year-round. Summers bring hiking, kayaking, and beach days on the lake. Winters bring snowshoeing, skiing at Diamond Peak, and cosy evenings in by the fire. Whatever season you visit, there is plenty to keep you busy!
Let's be honest: Incline Village is a small town. It's not Bangkok or Berlin when it comes to the number of fully vegan restaurants. But what it does have is a handful of genuinely good spots that take plant-based eating seriously, plus a few hidden gems that will pleasantly surprise you:
This is a must-visit! Mountain High Sandwich Co is a gourmet deli that puts a real focus on natural, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. Their vegan breakfast burrito is a traveller favourite: packed with plant-based chorizo, chickpeas, mushrooms, spinach, home fries, chipotle-tahini sauce, and avocado chimichurri. Honestly, it sounds like something you would order at a high-end brunch spot in a big city, but you can get it here, in a little mountain town sandwich shop!
They also do solid vegan BBQ options (think tofu sandwiches with plant-based sauces) and they are family-run, with friendly staff who are happy to tell you exactly what is in each dish. This is also a great spot to pick up snacks and food to take on your hikes for the day.
After a long day on the trails, sometimes you just want a big, satisfying burger and a cold drink. Inclined Burgers and Brews delivers exactly that: their Impossible Burger has been called the best plant-based burger in the Lake Tahoe area, and their fries are the real deal (crispy, generous, and totally vegan). The vibe is casual and local, with a solid selection of beers on tap. It is exactly the kind of place you want to collapse into after hiking Monkey Rock!
If you are looking for somewhere a bit more special (perhaps a birthday dinner or a romantic evening out) Le Bistro is Incline Village's most celebrated fine-dining option. This French fusion restaurant uses local, seasonal, and organic produce in all of its cooking. Vegan and gluten-free options are available on request, and the chefs are known for being accommodating. The wine list is outstanding, too! It's a hidden gem in the truest sense: tucked away in Incline Village but absolutely worth seeking out.
Indian food is always a vegan traveller's best friend, and Mehfil Indian Bistro does not disappoint. They have the largest vegetarian section on their menu of any restaurant in the area, with dishes like chana masala, dal makhani (ask for vegan version), aloo gobi, and vegetable biryani. Whether you are eating in or ordering take-out back to your vacation rental, this is a reliable and delicious option that will never let you down!
One of the best things about staying in Incline Village vacation rentals is that you have a full kitchen at your disposal. Grocery shopping here is perfectly straightforward: the local Raley's supermarket is well-stocked and carries plant-based milks, tofu, tempeh, vegan meats, and a solid range of fresh produce.
Why Incline Village Is Worth a Visit as a Vegan Traveller
Incline Village sits on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, just under an hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport. It's smaller and quieter than South Lake Tahoe, but that is exactly why many travellers love it. There are no casinos dominating the vibe, no overcrowded boardwalks - just clear blue water, mountain air, and a community that genuinely values the outdoors.
As a vegan, you'll find that the town's focus on organic, local, and healthy food works in your favour. Many restaurants use seasonal produce, and chefs here are used to catering to dietary preferences. Add to that the fact that cooking in your own Incline vacation rental gives you full control over your meals, and you start to see why this destination works so well for plant-based travellers!
The town is beautiful year-round. Summers bring hiking, kayaking, and beach days on the lake. Winters bring snowshoeing, skiing at Diamond Peak, and cosy evenings in by the fire. Whatever season you visit, there is plenty to keep you busy!
Where to Eat as a Vegan in Incline Village
Let's be honest: Incline Village is a small town. It's not Bangkok or Berlin when it comes to the number of fully vegan restaurants. But what it does have is a handful of genuinely good spots that take plant-based eating seriously, plus a few hidden gems that will pleasantly surprise you:
Mountain High Sandwich Co: Best for Breakfast and Lunch
This is a must-visit! Mountain High Sandwich Co is a gourmet deli that puts a real focus on natural, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. Their vegan breakfast burrito is a traveller favourite: packed with plant-based chorizo, chickpeas, mushrooms, spinach, home fries, chipotle-tahini sauce, and avocado chimichurri. Honestly, it sounds like something you would order at a high-end brunch spot in a big city, but you can get it here, in a little mountain town sandwich shop!
They also do solid vegan BBQ options (think tofu sandwiches with plant-based sauces) and they are family-run, with friendly staff who are happy to tell you exactly what is in each dish. This is also a great spot to pick up snacks and food to take on your hikes for the day.
Inclined Burgers and Brews: Best for a Post-Hike Meal
After a long day on the trails, sometimes you just want a big, satisfying burger and a cold drink. Inclined Burgers and Brews delivers exactly that: their Impossible Burger has been called the best plant-based burger in the Lake Tahoe area, and their fries are the real deal (crispy, generous, and totally vegan). The vibe is casual and local, with a solid selection of beers on tap. It is exactly the kind of place you want to collapse into after hiking Monkey Rock!
Le Bistro: Best for a Special Dinner
If you are looking for somewhere a bit more special (perhaps a birthday dinner or a romantic evening out) Le Bistro is Incline Village's most celebrated fine-dining option. This French fusion restaurant uses local, seasonal, and organic produce in all of its cooking. Vegan and gluten-free options are available on request, and the chefs are known for being accommodating. The wine list is outstanding, too! It's a hidden gem in the truest sense: tucked away in Incline Village but absolutely worth seeking out.
Mehfil Indian Bistro: Best for Vegan Variety
Indian food is always a vegan traveller's best friend, and Mehfil Indian Bistro does not disappoint. They have the largest vegetarian section on their menu of any restaurant in the area, with dishes like chana masala, dal makhani (ask for vegan version), aloo gobi, and vegetable biryani. Whether you are eating in or ordering take-out back to your vacation rental, this is a reliable and delicious option that will never let you down!
Grocery Shopping and Self-Catering Tips
One of the best things about staying in Incline Village vacation rentals is that you have a full kitchen at your disposal. Grocery shopping here is perfectly straightforward: the local Raley's supermarket is well-stocked and carries plant-based milks, tofu, tempeh, vegan meats, and a solid range of fresh produce.
If you want to stock up on more speciality vegan items, Reno is less than an hour away and has a much larger range of health food stores.
Pro tip: Pick up your groceries as soon as you arrive and batch-cook a couple of meals for the week. That way, you can focus your days on exploring and only eat out when you feel like it. This approach is also much easier on your budget, especially if you are travelling as a family.
Incline Village is quite simply one of the best places in the entire USA for people who love being outside. The outdoor activities here are the main event, and the good news is that almost everything you can do here is naturally vegan-friendly (apart from riding, hunting and fishing, but you know well enough to skip those).
The hiking around Incline Village is spectacular. Here are some of the top trails:
A 2.6-mile moderate out-and-back trail starting from Tunnel Creek Cafe. The trail leads to a granite rock formation that looks like a monkey, and the 180-degree views of North Lake Tahoe from the top are absolutely stunning! This is the most popular hike in town and easy to see why.
A wide, paved trail that runs from Incline Village all the way to Sand Harbor State Park. It's easy, beautiful, and suitable for all fitness levels: you can walk, jog, or cycle, and you get gorgeous lake views the entire way (also, just park at Tunnel Creek Cafe and walk as far as you like).
For the more ambitious hikers, this 165-mile trail circles the entire lake. You can easily access sections near Incline Village for incredible day hikes (the section from Tahoe Meadows to Twin Lakes, circa 7.1 miles, is particularly beautiful!).
A 10.7-mile round-trip hike to the second-tallest peak in the Tahoe Basin. You will encounter wildflowers, wildlife, and jaw-dropping views (this one about a 10-minute drive from Incline Village).
A shorter, gentler hike that is famous in winter for chickadees who will literally eat out of your hand: a truly magical and very vegan experience.
Lake Tahoe is one of the clearest, most beautiful lakes in the world. Getting on the water should be on every visitor's to-do list. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the granite-lined shore at your own pace. The clear kayak tours are particularly popular: paddling in a see-through kayak over the lake's crystal-clear water is an unforgettable experience.
Pro tip: Pick up your groceries as soon as you arrive and batch-cook a couple of meals for the week. That way, you can focus your days on exploring and only eat out when you feel like it. This approach is also much easier on your budget, especially if you are travelling as a family.
Things to Do in Incline Village (Perfect for Vegan Nature Lovers)
Incline Village is quite simply one of the best places in the entire USA for people who love being outside. The outdoor activities here are the main event, and the good news is that almost everything you can do here is naturally vegan-friendly (apart from riding, hunting and fishing, but you know well enough to skip those).
Hiking the Trails Around Incline Village
The hiking around Incline Village is spectacular. Here are some of the top trails:
Monkey Rock Trail
A 2.6-mile moderate out-and-back trail starting from Tunnel Creek Cafe. The trail leads to a granite rock formation that looks like a monkey, and the 180-degree views of North Lake Tahoe from the top are absolutely stunning! This is the most popular hike in town and easy to see why.
Tahoe East Shore Trail
A wide, paved trail that runs from Incline Village all the way to Sand Harbor State Park. It's easy, beautiful, and suitable for all fitness levels: you can walk, jog, or cycle, and you get gorgeous lake views the entire way (also, just park at Tunnel Creek Cafe and walk as far as you like).
Tahoe Rim Trail
For the more ambitious hikers, this 165-mile trail circles the entire lake. You can easily access sections near Incline Village for incredible day hikes (the section from Tahoe Meadows to Twin Lakes, circa 7.1 miles, is particularly beautiful!).
Mount Rose Trail
A 10.7-mile round-trip hike to the second-tallest peak in the Tahoe Basin. You will encounter wildflowers, wildlife, and jaw-dropping views (this one about a 10-minute drive from Incline Village).
Chickadee Ridge (Tahoe Meadows)
A shorter, gentler hike that is famous in winter for chickadees who will literally eat out of your hand: a truly magical and very vegan experience.
Getting on the Water
Lake Tahoe is one of the clearest, most beautiful lakes in the world. Getting on the water should be on every visitor's to-do list. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the granite-lined shore at your own pace. The clear kayak tours are particularly popular: paddling in a see-through kayak over the lake's crystal-clear water is an unforgettable experience.
Sand Harbor State Park, just five miles south of Incline Village, is the crown jewel of the area. Its turquoise water and iconic granite boulders make it one of the most photographed spots in the whole of Lake Tahoe. Note that from 2025, reservations are required to enter the park during peak season: make sure to book yours in advance!
If you are visiting in winter, Incline Village is just as wonderful. Diamond Peak Ski Resort is community-owned, uncrowded, and has breathtaking views of the lake from the slopes. Snowshoeing at Tahoe Meadows is magical: peaceful, snow-dusted pine trees in every direction! You can also book snowmobile tours or sleigh rides near the lake. Evenings back at your Incline Village vacation rental, curled up by the fire with a bowl of something warm and plant-based, are honestly hard to beat.
This is the part of the guide that I want every vegan traveller to pay attention to. When you are visiting a small mountain town like Incline Village, choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip - especially as a vegan!
Hotels here are limited in number and can be expensive. More importantly, hotel rooms do not have kitchens. For vegan travellers, that means you are entirely dependent on restaurants for every single meal, and while the food scene in Incline Village is better than you might expect, it is still a small town. Eating out three times a day gets expensive quickly, and the options for a quick vegan breakfast at 7am before you head out to the trails are limited.
Incline Village vacation rentals solve all of this: a well-chosen vacation rental gives you a full kitchen, more space to relax after a big day outdoors, and the freedom to eat whatever you want, whenever you want. You can make a giant batch of overnight oats in the evening so breakfast is ready when you wake up, prep trail snacks and can cook a proper plant-based dinner after hiking all day. For solo travellers, couples, families, and groups alike, vacation rentals simply make more sense.
Winter Activities
If you are visiting in winter, Incline Village is just as wonderful. Diamond Peak Ski Resort is community-owned, uncrowded, and has breathtaking views of the lake from the slopes. Snowshoeing at Tahoe Meadows is magical: peaceful, snow-dusted pine trees in every direction! You can also book snowmobile tours or sleigh rides near the lake. Evenings back at your Incline Village vacation rental, curled up by the fire with a bowl of something warm and plant-based, are honestly hard to beat.
Where to Stay in Incline Village: Why a Vacation Rental Is the Best Option for Vegans
This is the part of the guide that I want every vegan traveller to pay attention to. When you are visiting a small mountain town like Incline Village, choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip - especially as a vegan!
Hotels here are limited in number and can be expensive. More importantly, hotel rooms do not have kitchens. For vegan travellers, that means you are entirely dependent on restaurants for every single meal, and while the food scene in Incline Village is better than you might expect, it is still a small town. Eating out three times a day gets expensive quickly, and the options for a quick vegan breakfast at 7am before you head out to the trails are limited.
Incline Village vacation rentals solve all of this: a well-chosen vacation rental gives you a full kitchen, more space to relax after a big day outdoors, and the freedom to eat whatever you want, whenever you want. You can make a giant batch of overnight oats in the evening so breakfast is ready when you wake up, prep trail snacks and can cook a proper plant-based dinner after hiking all day. For solo travellers, couples, families, and groups alike, vacation rentals simply make more sense.
Incline Village has a wide variety of vacation rentals to choose from. You will find everything from cosy one-bedroom cabins tucked into the pines to large luxury homes with hot tubs, lake views, and multiple bedrooms for group trips. Many properties are just a short drive (or even a short walk) from the main trails and the beach. Some are pet-friendly, which is a huge bonus for vegan travellers who like to bring their dogs along!
When browsing Incline Village vacation rentals, here are the things worth prioritising:
Again: make sure to book your Incline Village vacation rental early, especially if you are visiting in summer or over the winter ski season. The best properties (especially those with lake views or direct trail access) tend to get snapped up months in advance.
Honestly, Incline Village is a great destination at any time of year, and each season has its own appeal:
The lake is warm enough to swim in, all the trails are fully accessible, Sand Harbor is stunning, and the outdoor dining scene at local restaurants is at its best. This is the most popular time to visit - so book your Incline Village vacation rental early!
The crowds disappear, the light turns golden, and the forests around the lake become absolutely beautiful as the leaves change. Temperatures drop but hiking is still very much possible. Accommodation prices also come down, making this a great time to grab a deal on a vacation rental.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort is uncrowded and has some of the best views of the lake of any ski resort in Tahoe. Snowshoeing at Tahoe Meadows is peaceful and beautiful. Cosy cabin rentals with fireplaces sell out fast in winter - so plan ahead!
Some years there is still snow on the ground well into May - but it is also one of the quietest times to visit, and wildflower hiking in the meadows can be spectacular!
Yes - absolutely! Incline Village will never be a vegan mecca in the same way that a big city might be, but that is kind of the point. This is a place for people who want to get outside, breathe fresh mountain air, swim in one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and slow down a little. The food scene is small but solid, the outdoor activities are world-class, and the Incline Village vacation rental options make it easy to eat exactly how you want to throughout your stay.
What to Look for in an Incline Village Vacation Rental as a Vegan
When browsing Incline Village vacation rentals, here are the things worth prioritising:
- Full kitchen with good cookware: Check the listing photos and reviews to make sure the kitchen is genuinely well-equipped (a blender for smoothies, good pots and pans, and plenty of fridge space make a real difference).
- Proximity to trails and the lake: The closer you are to the trailheads and the beach, the more time you will spend actually enjoying Incline Village rather than driving around.
- Outdoor space: A deck, garden, or patio is wonderful after a long day outside - many Incline Village vacation rentals have outdoor seating with views of the pines or even the lake.
- Fireplace or hot tub: Perfect for winter visits or chilly evenings after a long hike. Sitting in a hot tub under the Sierra Nevada stars is one of those travel experiences you will not forget.
- Pet-friendly policies: If you are travelling with animals, many Incline Village vacation rentals are pet-friendly, which is harder to find in standard hotels.
Again: make sure to book your Incline Village vacation rental early, especially if you are visiting in summer or over the winter ski season. The best properties (especially those with lake views or direct trail access) tend to get snapped up months in advance.
Practical Tips for Vegan Travel in Incline Village
- Pack snacks for the trails: While Mountain High Sandwich Co and Tunnel Creek Cafe are great for grabbing food before a hike, it's always smart to bring extra trail mix, energy bars, and fruit. Some of the hikes here are long and you will be working up a serious appetite!
- Download HappyCow before you arrive: HappyCow is the go-to app for finding vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants wherever you are in the world. In a smaller town like Incline Village, it will help you spot options you might miss otherwise.
- Ask at restaurants (people here are friendly): Even in restaurants that do not advertise vegan options, the staff in Incline Village are generally accommodating. Ask what can be modified, and most places will work with you. Le Bistro, for example, does not shout about its vegan options on the menu but will happily create something special if you ask.
- Book Sand Harbor in advance: From 2025, reservations are required for Sand Harbor State Park on busy days. Do not turn up and assume you can walk in - sort this out before you arrive!
- Layer up - the weather changes fast: Incline Village sits at over 6,000 feet elevation. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cold so always bring layers, especially for hiking!
Best Time to Visit Incline Village as a Vegan Traveller
Honestly, Incline Village is a great destination at any time of year, and each season has its own appeal:
Summer (June to September) is peak season
The lake is warm enough to swim in, all the trails are fully accessible, Sand Harbor is stunning, and the outdoor dining scene at local restaurants is at its best. This is the most popular time to visit - so book your Incline Village vacation rental early!
Autumn (October and November) is genuinely magical
The crowds disappear, the light turns golden, and the forests around the lake become absolutely beautiful as the leaves change. Temperatures drop but hiking is still very much possible. Accommodation prices also come down, making this a great time to grab a deal on a vacation rental.
Winter (December to March) is perfect for snow lovers
Diamond Peak Ski Resort is uncrowded and has some of the best views of the lake of any ski resort in Tahoe. Snowshoeing at Tahoe Meadows is peaceful and beautiful. Cosy cabin rentals with fireplaces sell out fast in winter - so plan ahead!
Spring (April and May) can be hit or miss
Some years there is still snow on the ground well into May - but it is also one of the quietest times to visit, and wildflower hiking in the meadows can be spectacular!
Final Thoughts: Is Incline Village Good for Vegan Travellers?
Yes - absolutely! Incline Village will never be a vegan mecca in the same way that a big city might be, but that is kind of the point. This is a place for people who want to get outside, breathe fresh mountain air, swim in one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and slow down a little. The food scene is small but solid, the outdoor activities are world-class, and the Incline Village vacation rental options make it easy to eat exactly how you want to throughout your stay.
If you are a vegan who loves nature (and let's be honest, most of us do) Incline Village belongs on your travel list. Book your Incline Village vacation rental, stock up the kitchen at Raley's when you arrive, pack your trail snacks, and let Lake Tahoe do the rest. You'll leave wondering why you did not come sooner!
