Van Sickle Bi-State Park - a wooden sign in the middle of a forest
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Van Sickle Bi-State Park

4.8
·485 reviews·South Lake Tahoe, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
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Van Sickle Bi-State Park - a wooden sign in the middle of a forest

Van Sickle Bi-State Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.8
(485 reviews)

"Breathtaking views and enjoyable hikes make this a must-visit for families and nature lovers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Tahoe Overlook

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!

TikTokInstagram
Van Sickle Waterfall

Van Sickle Waterfall

Short hike from the trailhead

A charming, accessible waterfall perfect for a refreshing stop or a photo opportunity.

TikTok+2
California-Nevada Border Crossing

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.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views

While Van Sickle Bi-State Park is beautiful year-round, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant hiking weather. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for capturing stunning Lake Tahoe vistas. TikTok

Trail Navigation Tips

Some visitors find trail markings can be confusing, especially on less-traveled paths. Downloading an offline map or using a reliable hiking app can be helpful. TikTokReddit The park spans both California and Nevada, so be aware of your location as you hike. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather, good for cooling off
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (with snow)
Why
Magical snowy landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

beautiful South Lake Tahoe hike at Van Sickle State Park breathtaking views to a waterfall and ended up base camp Pizza #southlaketahoe #waterfalls #nature
@stephhikestahoe
5 likes • 152 views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Leashed dogs are welcome! A great perk for pet owners looking for outdoor adventures. TikTokReddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is free at the trailhead, making it an accessible option for visitors. TikTok

😮‍💨😍 breathtaking! #southlaketahoe #laketahoehikingtrails #vansicklebistatepark #laketahoe
@itsokfaye
76 likes • 1.7K views
At Van Sickle Bi-State Park you can find this interesting place where you can step on two states together. California and Nevada
sanzidas_creative_world
4 likes • 71 views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be uphill and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are recommended. TikTokReddit

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a smart backup. TikTokReddit

A little fresh air is good for the soul. Have you been to Van Sickle Bi-State Park yet? Located just behind @heavenlyvillage these trails offer short and long hikes that are well marked and not too challenging but opens up to some of the most spectacular views. . . . #tahoereels #airbnb #southtahoevacationhome #laketahoe #southlaketahoe #tahoemagic #optoutside #tahoeadventures #instatravel #explo...
southtahoevacationhome
10 likes • 303 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Leashed dogs are welcome! A great perk for pet owners looking for outdoor adventures. TikTokReddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is free at the trailhead, making it an accessible option for visitors. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be uphill and rocky in parts; good hiking shoes are recommended. TikTokReddit

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Trail markings can be inconsistent; an offline map is a smart backup. TikTokReddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. Some visitors noted a small shop for essentials. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(485 reviews)

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

Stunning lake views
Accessible trails
Dog-friendly

What People Dislike

Trail marking clarity
Facility cleanliness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is conveniently located behind Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe, right near the Stateline casinos. Instagram+1 Parking is available at the trailhead and is free. TikTok It's easily accessible from both California and Nevada sides. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

There is free parking available at the main trailhead. TikTok Some visitors suggest parking at Target and walking to the park if the main lot is full, though this adds to the hike. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Van Sickle Bi-State Park is a public recreation area and does not charge an entrance fee. Parking is also free. TikTok

The park is generally open year-round. Gates, parking areas, restrooms, and drinking fountains are typically open from May 1st for the season. Instagram It's always a good idea to check the official Nevada State Parks website for any specific seasonal closures or updates. Instagram

No advance booking or tickets are required to enter Van Sickle Bi-State Park, as it is a free public park. TikTok

The park is open to the public. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it's a family-friendly environment. TikTok

The park offers functional restrooms with running water and drinking fountains. Reddit Picnic spots are also available. Instagram

🎫 🥾 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. TikTokInstagram+2 The Van Sickle Loop is also a great option that crosses between California and Nevada. TikTok

The waterfall is about a 30-minute hike from the beginning of the trail. TikTok Some visitors report it takes around 45 minutes from the Target parking lot. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit+2

Yes, the park offers trails suitable for biking and mountain biking, including singletrack options. TikTokInstagram

You can expect stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. TikTokInstagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

The Lake Tahoe overlooks offer incredible panoramic shots. TikTokInstagram The waterfall is also a picturesque spot. TikTok+1 Don't miss the unique photo opportunity at the California-Nevada border marker! Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for capturing the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the park. TikTok

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. Instagram

While not guaranteed, you might spot various birds and small mammals in the park's natural habitat. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Van Sickle Bi-State Park is a great choice for families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure. The trails are generally not too challenging, with some sections being uphill but manageable for children. TikTokReddit+2 The highlight of reaching the waterfall or the scenic overlooks provides a fun goal for kids. TikTok+1 Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider downloading an offline map as trail markings can sometimes be unclear. TikTokReddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Bring your furry friends along! Van Sickle Bi-State Park is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to explore the trails with you. TikTokReddit It's a wonderful opportunity for your pets to enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe alongside you. Ensure your dog is on a leash at all times and be prepared to clean up after them. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Van Sickle offers a rewarding experience with stunning views of Lake Tahoe. TikTokInstagram+1 The park provides a variety of trails, from short walks to longer loops that traverse both California and Nevada. TikTokInstagram Be prepared for some uphill sections and consider downloading an offline map for navigation. TikTokReddit The chance to see a waterfall and enjoy the bi-state novelty adds to the appeal. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Bi-State Nature

Van Sickle Bi-State Park is unique in that it straddles the border between California and Nevada, offering visitors the chance to experience two states in one outing. TikTokInstagram The park spans 725 acres and provides a diverse range of terrain, from forested areas to open vistas overlooking Lake Tahoe. Instagram This bi-state designation means you can literally walk from one state to another on the trails, a fun novelty for many visitors. Instagram

This natural area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring well-maintained trails for hiking and biking. TikTokInstagram The park preserves the memory of Henry Van Sickle, a significant figure in the region's history. TikTok Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk or a more challenging trek, Van Sickle offers options for all fitness levels. TikTokInstagram

Hiking Trails and Difficulty

The hiking trails at Van Sickle Bi-State Park are a major draw, with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Many visitors highlight the accessibility of the trails, noting they are not overly challenging but still offer rewarding views. TikTokInstagram+1 The hike to the waterfall is a popular choice, described as a relatively short and manageable trek. TikTok+2

Some trails can be steep in sections, so comfortable footwear is recommended. TikTokReddit Visitors have noted that trail markings can sometimes be confusing, so having an offline map or navigation app is a good idea. TikTokReddit The park offers trails that loop through both California and Nevada, providing varied scenery and the unique experience of crossing state lines. TikTok+1 The Rim Trail to Van Sickle Bistate Park Waterfall is another noted route. Instagram

Family and Pet-Friendly Adventures

Van Sickle Bi-State Park is a fantastic destination for families and pet owners. The park is explicitly described as dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join in on the hiking fun. TikTokReddit This makes it an ideal spot for those who don't want to leave their furry companions behind. TikTok

For families with children, the trails are generally considered suitable and enjoyable. TikTokReddit+2 The relatively easy terrain and the allure of reaching a waterfall or a scenic overlook keep younger hikers engaged. TikTok+1 The opportunity to disconnect from electronics and bond as a family is also a frequently mentioned benefit. Reddit The park's accessibility and free entry further enhance its appeal for family outings. TikTok

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