Emerald Bay State Park
A National Natural Landmark, Emerald Bay State Park boasts glacier-carved granite and stunning turquoise waters, offering iconic Lake Tahoe views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Emerald Bay State Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A National Natural Landmark, Emerald Bay State Park boasts glacier-carved granite and stunning turquoise waters, offering iconic Lake Tahoe views.
"It's a magical place and despite the hike and parking situation, well worth the time and effort."
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Parking fills up FAST! Get there early to snag a spot or face a long walk. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Hiking Shoes
The hike down is easy, but the climb back up can be tough. Good footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Bay Vista Point
Highway 89
Iconic turquoise waters and rugged cliffs create a postcard-perfect panorama. A must-see for any Lake Tahoe visitor.
Vikingsholm Castle
Shore of Emerald Bay
A stunning Scandinavian-style mansion offering a glimpse into history. Tours are available by reservation.
Lower Eagle Falls
Near Highway 89
A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short, scenic hike. Perfect for a refreshing nature break.
Rubicon Trail
Connects Emerald Bay & DL Bliss State Parks
Offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe along a scenic, well-maintained path. Ideal for a longer hike.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Hike Smart: Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Parking fills up FAST! Get there early to snag a spot or face a long walk. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Hiking Shoes
The hike down is easy, but the climb back up can be tough. Good footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayak or Paddleboard
Rentals available for exploring the bay's clear waters. Check wind conditions! :kayak:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on hikes. Pack snacks as options inside the park are limited. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Parking fills up FAST! Get there early to snag a spot or face a long walk. :car:
👟 Wear Comfy Hiking Shoes
The hike down is easy, but the climb back up can be tough. Good footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayak or Paddleboard
Rentals available for exploring the bay's clear waters. Check wind conditions! :kayak:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on hikes. Pack snacks as options inside the park are limited. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Views
Emerald Bay is incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning shots!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Store food in bear boxes provided. Be aware of wildlife and follow ranger advice. :bear:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty of Emerald Bay, calling it a 'magical place' with 'amazing views' and 'gorgeous water.' The stunning turquoise hues and picturesque setting are undeniable highlights. However, the overwhelming consensus points to significant challenges with parking, often requiring long walks, and a strenuous hike back up from the bay.
"Came here for the first time last week and it was breathtakingly beautiful. A couple things to note... Parking in the actual parking lot is impossible. It felt like the Griffith Observatory. We ended up parking about a mile away and make the walk a long the road, which was kinda dicey. The hike down to the bay is easy enough and beautiful. The hike up is a bit tough. I saw the reviews on here saying that and they were right. It's definitely a challenge, especially after we had spent 2 hours kayaking. I'm not saying this to deter anyone, as the actual experience of this place was worth it. Once you hike down there's some on viking house to look at, though it's got scaffolding around it and a fence around it. There's a smallish beach to play on, and then there's the water craft rentals, which we did two 2 person kayaks. I'll say it's a magical place and despite the hike and parking situation, well worth the time and effort"
Matthew Russell
"There are so many great spots in Lake Tahoe, but this one is a must! I took the trail down to Vikingsholm. The way down was easy, but coming back up was definitely a bit of a challenge since I’m not a big fan of hiking. However, even as a beginner, I found the trail totally doable. Parking is limited for sure. We got there at 9am, and we took the last one (lucky me!)."
Hyunsook Eunice Youn
"You MUST stop at this beautiful lake during the daytime! The lake was amazing and we loved the waterfalls and trails they had in order to see the lake! The water was like glass, so completely clear, a good amount of parking spots. They did have a good viewing area as well with more parking and space for views. Overall, if you are looking for amazing water and views, go here. A must visit!"
Nikolai Mannsfeld
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emerald Bay State Park is located on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe, accessible via Highway 89. If driving, be prepared for limited parking. Consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services. +1
Parking is extremely limited, especially during peak season. The main lot often fills by 9 AM. Arriving very early is highly recommended.
If the main lot is full, you may need to park further away (up to a mile) and walk along Highway 89. This walk can be 'dicey' due to traffic.
While direct public transport to the park entrance is limited, some local bus services operate in the Lake Tahoe area. Check with local transit authorities for routes and schedules.
Parking for large vehicles like RVs can be particularly challenging due to the limited space. It's advisable to check with the park directly for specific guidance on RV parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a day-use fee for Emerald Bay State Park. Fees can vary, so it's best to check the official California State Parks website for current pricing.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like visitor centers or restrooms may have seasonal hours. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
While general park entry doesn't usually require reservations, tours of Vikingsholm Castle do. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially during busy periods.
Emerald Bay State Park itself does not offer camping. However, there are nearby campgrounds in Lake Tahoe, such as those at DL Bliss State Park (check for current status) or other state and national forest areas.
As a California State Park, an annual California State Parks Pass may cover the day-use fee. It's advisable to confirm coverage with the park or the pass provider.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the trail to Vikingsholm Castle, the path to Lower Eagle Falls, and sections of the Rubicon Trail. The hike down to the bay is scenic but the return can be strenuous.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Emerald Bay, but the water is very cold year-round. It's best to swim in the shallows and be aware of boat traffic.
Activities include hiking, photography, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours. You can rent watercraft or bring your own.
Vikingsholm Castle is open for tours, but reservations are often required, especially during peak season. Check the official Vikingsholm website for tour schedules and booking information.
Yes, there are restrooms and picnic areas within Emerald Bay State Park. Some reviews mention clean bathrooms and showers if camping nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The main Vista Point offers iconic views. Hiking down to the bay provides different angles, and the Rubicon Trail offers stunning lake vistas. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and vibrant colors. Sunrise offers a magical start to the day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in California State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check park regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay and surrounding mountains. A telephoto lens can be useful for details like Vikingsholm Castle.
While specific photography tours might not be widely advertised, local guides or photography groups may offer excursions. It's worth searching for local tour operators.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 Be prepared for elevation changes and varying trail conditions. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking alpine scenery and unique flora. 📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the bay and a telephoto lens for details like Vikingsholm Castle. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Access
For those who manage to park, the hike down to the bay itself is generally considered easy and offers beautiful scenery.
Exploring Vikingsholm Castle and its Surroundings
Built in the 1920s, it was constructed using local materials like timber and granite, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Visitors can explore the castle's interior through guided tours, which offer insights into its unique architecture and history. It's important to note that reservations are often required for these tours, especially during busy periods, so booking in advance is highly recommended. The castle is situated on the shore of Emerald Bay, making it a picturesque destination. The walk down to Vikingsholm from the parking area is approximately one mile, and while the descent is manageable, the return journey uphill can be challenging for some.
Activities on the Water
Swimming is also an option, though the water in Lake Tahoe remains quite cold throughout the year.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit