East Shore Lake Tahoe
A paved, scenic trail along Lake Tahoe's eastern shore, offering breathtaking views and access to beautiful beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
East Shore Lake Tahoe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A paved, scenic trail along Lake Tahoe's eastern shore, offering breathtaking views and access to beautiful beaches.
"One of the most scenic walks in Lake Tahoe! Crystal-clear water, gorgeous lake views, and an easy paved path."
E-bike for Easy Exploration
Rent an e-bike to effortlessly cruise the paved trail and enjoy the views.
Pack Snacks & Water
Food options are scarce along the trail; bring your own provisions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East Shore Trail
Incline Village to Sand Harbor Beach
A paved, scenic 3-mile (one-way) path offering breathtaking lake views and access to coves.
Sand Harbor State Park
Northern end of East Shore Trail
Iconic sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and exploring.
Hidden Coves & Beaches
Along the East Shore Trail
Discover secluded spots for a peaceful moment with the lake's turquoise waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on the East Shore Trail
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
E-bike for Easy Exploration
Rent an e-bike to effortlessly cruise the paved trail and enjoy the views. +1
Pack Snacks & Water
Food options are scarce along the trail; bring your own provisions.
Watch for Bikers
Be aware of fast-moving cyclists, especially on downhill sections. +1
Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the East Shore Trail, making it great for furry friends. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
E-bike for Easy Exploration
Rent an e-bike to effortlessly cruise the paved trail and enjoy the views. +1
Pack Snacks & Water
Food options are scarce along the trail; bring your own provisions.
Watch for Bikers
Be aware of fast-moving cyclists, especially on downhill sections. +1
Dog-Friendly Path
Leashed dogs are welcome on the East Shore Trail, making it great for furry friends. +1
Respect the Elevation
The trail is at 6,500 feet; take it easy if you're not acclimated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the East Shore Trail's stunning beauty and accessibility, calling it one of Lake Tahoe's most scenic walks. The paved path is great for biking and walking, with direct access to Sand Harbor. However, parking is a significant challenge, and some bikers can be inconsiderate.
"We started from the Sandy shores state park side and walked north. We stopped at some of the side excursions/paths along the way. Even though the path, and Lake Tahoe is busy, everyone can find their own bit of serenity. The bikers can be a bit of a pain, especially on downhill slopes when they're going fast. Just listen for their wheels on the pavement. Enjoy-"
Mike S
"The area and water is very nice and clean, but not enough parking lot, have to park beside the cliff or road. Make sure to bring food with u. It's hard to find a restaurant or food stall here."
Peter diep
"Good walk at 6500 feet elevation. Saw way too much dog poop on the sides of path. Most bikers were cool and gave notice they were coming up on you but there were a few jerks going way too fast coming really close to colliding or hitting you despite posted signs."
Mike Wallich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main trailhead is near Tunnel Creek Café in Incline Village, NV. Parking is limited and paid. Some visitors use the trail to access Sand Harbor State Park, potentially avoiding parking issues there. +1
Yes, there's paid parking at the trailhead near Tunnel Creek Café, but it fills up quickly. Some suggest parking at Sand Harbor State Park and walking north on the trail. +1
Absolutely! You can start your walk or bike ride from Sand Harbor State Park and head north on the East Shore Trail. +1
Information on public transport directly to the trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange a ride-share.
The drive from South Lake Tahoe to the East Shore Trail can take around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. E-biking the trail is a popular activity once you arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The East Shore Trail itself is free to access. However, there is a parking fee at the trailhead and an entrance fee for Sand Harbor State Park.
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. Sand Harbor State Park has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
Yes, Sand Harbor State Park has an entrance fee, typically per vehicle. It's advisable to check the official Nevada State Parks website for current fees.
Parking at the trailhead is on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved. Arrive early to secure a spot.
While there isn't a specific pass for the East Shore Trail parking, Nevada State Parks may offer passes that cover entry to Sand Harbor. Check their official site for details.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The East Shore Trail is approximately 3 miles one-way (6 miles round trip) and is considered easy, with a paved surface suitable for most fitness levels. +1
Yes, the East Shore Trail is perfect for both walking and biking. E-bikes are a popular choice for covering the distance and enjoying the scenery. +1
Restroom facilities are available at Sand Harbor State Park and potentially at the trailhead. It's wise to use them when you see them.
The paved, relatively flat path makes it very family-friendly. Kids can enjoy the scenery and the access to beaches.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear turquoise waters, the surrounding mountains, and beautiful shoreline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options are very limited directly on the trail. It's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Incline Village, located near the trailhead, offers various dining options. There's also a mobile ice cream vendor sometimes found near the trail.
Yes, picnicking is a great idea! There are many scenic spots along the trail and at Sand Harbor State Park where you can enjoy your packed meal.
There is a café, Tunnel Creek Café, located near the main trailhead, which can be a good spot for a coffee or light snack before or after your activity.
Pack easy-to-eat snacks like trail mix, sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water. Consider items that don't require much preparation.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a photo opportunity! Look for unique rock formations, the vibrant blue water, and the lone trees along the shoreline. Sunset is particularly magical. 
Early morning and late afternoon/sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks like Sand Harbor. Always check the specific park regulations before flying.
Capture the contrast of the rocky shoreline against the clear water, or the silhouette of trees against a colorful sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Cyclists & E-Bike Enthusiasts
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the East Shore Trail by Bike
Many travelers find that the trail's accessibility and beauty make it a highlight of their Tahoe trip. It provides direct access to Sand Harbor State Park, which can be a significant advantage given the park's notorious parking challenges.
Key Takeaways for Cyclists:
* E-bike rentals are widely available and highly recommended.
* The trail is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible.
* Direct access to Sand Harbor is a major perk.
* Be courteous to pedestrians and other bikers.
The Allure of Sand Harbor State Park
Accessing Sand Harbor via the East Shore Trail can be a smart strategy to avoid the park's often-full parking lots.
Sand Harbor Highlights:
* Stunning beaches and clear water.
* Great for swimming and sunbathing.
* Unique rock formations to explore.
* Can be accessed via the East Shore Trail.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography on the East Shore
+1 The vibrant turquoise waters, the rugged rocky shorelines, and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains provide endless inspiration. Many photographers recommend visiting during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – to capture the most dramatic light and colors. Sunset, in particular, can paint the sky with spectacular hues, creating unforgettable moments. +1When composing your shots, look for the lone trees that dot the coastline, the intricate patterns of the waves against the rocks, and the expansive panoramas of the lake.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the landscape, while a polarizing filter can enhance the saturation of the water and sky. While the East Shore Trail itself is a fantastic subject, consider exploring the various hidden coves and beaches for more intimate and unique photographic opportunities. Photography Tips:
* Visit during golden hour for the best light.
* Utilize a wide-angle lens for expansive views.
* Look for unique shoreline details and lone trees.
* Sunset offers spectacular colors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit