Weekend Escape to Lake Tahoe: Hikes, Views & Emerald Waters
In July, we took a motorcycle ride from Phoenix to Lake Tahoe. Since we were crossing the desert in the summer we left in the evening and stayed over in Victorville, California. In the morning we continued up California Hwy 395 making stops along the way. As we winded our way up to the lake the temperatures dropped.
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South Lake Tahoe
Interestingly Lake Tahoe is split between the states of California and Nevada. Downtown Tahoe, no matter which side you wander into, has that perfect mix of mountain town charm and lakeside leisure. You’ll find laid-back cafés serving hot cocoa and breakfast burritos, mom-and-pop shops filled with locally made art and outdoor gear.
We stayed in this area so we could easily walk around to restaurants and shops.
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Explore Downtown Lake Tahoe
Downtown Lake Tahoe, nestled along the pristine shores of the lake in California and Nevada, is a charming mountain town offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, it’s a haven for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking enthusiasts. The area features quaint shops, cozy cafes, and bustling restaurants serving local cuisine.
We started our first morning with a drive around Lake Tahoe. Emerald Bay was our first stop
Emerald Bay Road
Highway 89, or Emerald Bay Road from South Lake Tahoe will wind you around the lake through pine trees, with mountain and lake views.
Inspiration Point
Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay State Park should be at the top of your list. Tucked away on the southwestern shore of Lake Tahoe, this park is a place that despite the crowds of people manages to feel peaceful.
From the parking lot it is a steep downhill one-mile hike to the Bay.
The park is home to the iconic Emerald Bay, the lower Eagle Falls and Vikingsholm.
Vikingsholm Castle
My favorite part of the visit was exploring Vikingsholm Castle. It was something we decided to do last minute. This Scandinavian-style mansion nestled between towering pine trees and with a beautiful view of the bay.
Visit a Viking castle in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range? Yes, please. Vikingsholm was such a completely unexpected place to visit. It is part of California’s Emerald Bay State Park. Scandinavian architecture on Emerald Bay, this home can be toured during the summer months.
The park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and picnicking, making it a serene retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility amid Lake Tahoe’s majestic landscapes.
Built in the 1920s, this historic mansion features intricate details such as sod roofs and hand-carved woodwork, reflecting the owner’s love for Nordic design.
You can tour the mansion’s interior, which showcases original furnishings and artifacts, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century lakefront living. Surrounded by lush forests and panoramic lake views, Vikingsholm stands as a testament to Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty and architectural splendor.
Lower Eagle Falls
Eagle Falls, located near Emerald Bay on the southwestern shore of Lake Tahoe, is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades through granite boulders amidst a backdrop of towering pine trees and rugged cliffs.
The falls offer a picturesque setting for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with trails leading to stunning viewpoints overlooking Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe.
Sand Harbor
If you’re looking for that perfect beach day with crystal-clear water and soft sand, head to Sand Harbor on the Nevada side of the lake. This was my favorite beach in Lake Tahoe.
The vibe here is a little more laid-back. Massive boulders dot the shoreline, making it a favorite spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, or just climbing around and soaking up the views.
We visited in July and the beaches were filled, however the water was too cold for this Arizona girl. Lake Tahoe water is an average of 67°F degrees in the summer.
