Spooner Lake Nevada
A serene reservoir in Nevada offering easy hiking, stunning fall colors, and access to challenging mountain biking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Spooner Lake Nevada
Best Time
Peak fall foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir in Nevada offering easy hiking, stunning fall colors, and access to challenging mountain biking trails.
"Escape the Lake Tahoe crowds and discover the hidden gem of Spooner Lake!"
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
Even on flat trails, snow can linger, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a parking fee, especially during peak seasons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Autumn Aspen Groves
Spooner Lake Trail
Witness a breathtaking display of golden Aspen trees, especially vibrant in mid-October. A must-see for fall enthusiasts!
Spooner Lake Loop Trail
Around Spooner Lake
An easy, flat 2-3 mile hike perfect for families and casual walkers, offering beautiful lake views and shade.
Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake Trail
From Spooner Lake
A longer, more challenging 10.5-mile hike for experienced trekkers, rewarding with stunning Sierra Nevada scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
+2Parking and Trail Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
Even on flat trails, snow can linger, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a parking fee, especially during peak seasons.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Hikes
Leashed dogs are welcome on trails, making it great for furry friends! +2
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Spooner Lake is stocked with trout, offering a good spot for anglers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
Even on flat trails, snow can linger, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a parking fee, especially during peak seasons.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Hikes
Leashed dogs are welcome on trails, making it great for furry friends! +2
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Spooner Lake is stocked with trout, offering a good spot for anglers.
📸 Capture Fall Colors
Mid-October is prime time for vibrant Aspen leaves. Don't miss it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Spooner Lake for its beautiful scenery, especially the vibrant fall foliage and tranquil atmosphere. The easy loop trail is a hit with families and casual walkers, offering a peaceful escape. Some find the parking fee a bit high for the limited open trails, but overall, it's considered a lovely spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
"$15 for parking when only one 2 mile trail is open seems a bit expensive! The lake is pretty and, more importantly, quiet (apart from some traffic noise)! Fairly flat trail with plenty of shade."
Louise D
"Beautiful place , great for a pick nic day. Bring all the necessary stuff and have fun!"
Na B
"Beautiful hike around the lake. Still has snow. Suggest hiking boots."
Rachel Spencer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spooner Lake is located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, about 20 minutes from Stateline. You can access it via Highway 50.
Public transport options to Spooner Lake are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park.
From Stateline, take US-50 E towards Carson City. Turn right onto NV-28 N, and Spooner Lake State Park will be on your left.
Yes, Spooner Lake is located within the Lake Tahoe State Park on the Nevada side.
While biking is popular in the area, direct public transport to Spooner Lake is scarce. Many visitors drive or bike from nearby areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a parking fee for Spooner Lake State Park. The cost can vary, with some visitors noting it was $15.
The park generally has daylight hours for access, but it's best to check the official Nevada State Parks website for the most current hours, especially during different seasons.
Advance booking is typically not required for general park entry or parking, but it's always a good idea to check for any special event or seasonal restrictions.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to check the Nevada State Parks website for any potential passes or discounts.
The parking fee typically grants access to the park grounds, trails, and amenities like restrooms.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Spooner Lake offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and picnicking. It's also a great spot for enjoying nature and scenic views.
Yes, the main loop around Spooner Lake is an easy, flat 2-3 mile trail suitable for families, kids, and those less experienced with hiking.
While Spooner Lake is beautiful, swimming is not its primary activity. It's more known for fishing and scenic enjoyment.
Yes, clean restrooms are available at Spooner Lake, which is convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! Spooner Lake is renowned for its stunning scenery, especially the fall foliage and mountain vistas, making it a photographer's paradise.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Outdoor Activities
Spooner Lake is stocked with Tiger trout and Cutbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Yes, Spooner Lake is a popular destination for mountain biking, with trails like the Flume Trail nearby offering challenging rides.
Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails around Spooner Lake, offering a unique way to explore the area.
The Spooner Lake Trail and the trail to Marlette Lake are highly recommended for experiencing the spectacular fall foliage, especially the Aspen trees.
Yes, Spooner Lake is a great spot for picnics, with beautiful surroundings to enjoy your meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Mountain Bikers
📸 Photographers
+2 The lake itself, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, offers picturesque scenes year-round. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best golden hour light for dramatic shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Spooner Lake's Trails
For more adventurous hikers and bikers, the Spooner Lake to Marlette Lake Trail is a more challenging option. This approximately 10.5-mile round trip hike takes you deeper into the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering more rugged terrain and expansive vistas. It's a rewarding trek for those seeking a longer outdoor excursion.
Additionally, the area is a hub for mountain biking, with access to renowned trails like the Flume Trail. Horseback riding is also permitted on designated routes, providing diverse ways to explore the natural beauty of Spooner Lake.
The Magic of Fall Foliage at Spooner Lake
+2Several trails offer prime viewing spots for these autumn colors. The main Spooner Lake loop provides accessible views, while the trail leading towards Marlette Lake offers a more immersive experience amidst the changing leaves.
+1This seasonal display makes Spooner Lake a photographer's dream and a perfect destination for those seeking to capture the essence of autumn in the Sierra Nevada. Remember to check weather conditions, as early snow can sometimes affect the viewing window.
Fishing and Wildlife at Spooner Lake
While the primary focus is often on the lake and trails, visitors can also appreciate the natural environment. Keep an eye out for local wildlife that inhabits the surrounding forests and meadows. The serene atmosphere of Spooner Lake provides a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit