Van Sickle Bi-State Park
A bi-state park on the CA-NV border offering stunning Lake Tahoe views, accessible hiking trails, and a unique state-crossing experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Van Sickle Bi-State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bi-state park on the CA-NV border offering stunning Lake Tahoe views, accessible hiking trails, and a unique state-crossing experience.
"Breathtaking views and enjoyable hikes make this a must-visit for families and nature lovers."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome! A great perk for pet owners looking for outdoor adventures.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free at the trailhead, making it an accessible option for visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Tahoe Overlook
Various points along the trails
Breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling blue lake and surrounding mountains. A must-see for any visitor!

Van Sickle Waterfall
Short hike from the trailhead
A charming, accessible waterfall perfect for a refreshing stop or a photo opportunity.

California-Nevada Border Crossing
Designated marker on the trail
Stand in two states at once! A unique and fun photo op for families and friends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Trail Navigation Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome! A great perk for pet owners looking for outdoor adventures.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free at the trailhead, making it an accessible option for visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uphill and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are recommended.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a smart backup.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome! A great perk for pet owners looking for outdoor adventures.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free at the trailhead, making it an accessible option for visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uphill and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are recommended.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a smart backup.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. Some visitors noted a small shop for essentials.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Van Sickle Bi-State Park for its breathtaking Lake Tahoe views and accessible hiking trails, making it a great spot for families and dog owners. While the natural beauty and convenience are highly rated, some reviewers mention that trail markings could be improved and facilities can sometimes be less than pristine.
"Beautiful beach, super friendly bus driver for the shuttle, shout out to Chris. Good prices on the kayaks, bad you can see the bottom for so far out! SO clear!!! Beautiful mountain scapes, and I think saw some people hiking trails. Oh, and there is a small shop where we bought more sunscreen and snacks. Oh, and there are functional bathrooms with running water. Great place!"
Peter S
"Great trail.took like 45minutes from Target parking lot to get to water fall. Great view point along the way. Pretty much all up hill. Still ice near fall. ✌️✌️Dog friendly."
Raymond Tuyn
"Easy hike uphill about .5 mile to scenic overlook. Parking available. Kids enjoyed!"
Lauren Griffin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is conveniently located behind Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe, right near the Stateline casinos.
Parking is available at the trailhead and is free. It's easily accessible from both California and Nevada sides.While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, the park's proximity to Heavenly Village means you can often walk from hotels or use local shuttles that service the area.
Yes, Van Sickle Bi-State Park is accessible year-round. However, during winter months, trails may be covered in snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
There is free parking available at the main trailhead.
Some visitors suggest parking at Target and walking to the park if the main lot is full, though this adds to the hike.Yes, it's considered one of the easiest Tahoe Basin Parks to access. The trailhead is located just behind the Stateline casinos and under the main gondola line.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Van Sickle Bi-State Park is a public recreation area and does not charge an entrance fee. Parking is also free.
The park is generally open year-round. Gates, parking areas, restrooms, and drinking fountains are typically open from May 1st for the season.
It's always a good idea to check the official Nevada State Parks website for any specific seasonal closures or updates.No advance booking or tickets are required to enter Van Sickle Bi-State Park, as it is a free public park.
The park is open to the public. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it's a family-friendly environment.
The park offers functional restrooms with running water and drinking fountains.
Picnic spots are also available.🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The park offers a variety of trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. Popular options include the hike to the waterfall and trails leading to scenic overlooks of Lake Tahoe.
The Van Sickle Loop is also a great option that crosses between California and Nevada.The waterfall is about a 30-minute hike from the beginning of the trail.
Some visitors report it takes around 45 minutes from the Target parking lot.Yes, many visitors find the park to be family-friendly. The terrain is described as perfect for the whole family, with some easier uphill sections suitable for kids.
Yes, the park offers trails suitable for biking and mountain biking, including singletrack options.
You can expect stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lake Tahoe overlooks offer incredible panoramic shots.
The waterfall is also a picturesque spot. Don't miss the unique photo opportunity at the California-Nevada border marker!Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for capturing the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the park.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with Nevada State Parks or the U.S. Forest Service for current drone policies before flying.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various birds and small mammals in the park's natural habitat.
The park preserves the memory of Henry Van Sickle, and while specific historic buildings aren't heavily featured in social media, the natural landscape is the primary photographic draw.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bi-State Nature
This natural area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring well-maintained trails for hiking and biking. The park preserves the memory of Henry Van Sickle, a significant figure in the region's history. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk or a more challenging trek, Van Sickle offers options for all fitness levels.
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
Some trails can be steep in sections, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Visitors have noted that trail markings can sometimes be confusing, so having an offline map or navigation app is a good idea. The park offers trails that loop through both California and Nevada, providing varied scenery and the unique experience of crossing state lines. The Rim Trail to Van Sickle Bistate Park Waterfall is another noted route.
Family and Pet-Friendly Adventures
For families with children, the trails are generally considered suitable and enjoyable. The relatively easy terrain and the allure of reaching a waterfall or a scenic overlook keep younger hikers engaged. The opportunity to disconnect from electronics and bond as a family is also a frequently mentioned benefit. The park's accessibility and free entry further enhance its appeal for family outings.
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