Emerald Bay State Park
Some visitors, parking usually available
Best: Weekday mornings
Home to Lake Tahoe's most photographed vista, Emerald Bay is a spectacular glacial bay with turquoise waters and the only island in Lake Tahoe - Fannette Island with its historic tea house ruins. Vikingsholm mansion, one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in North America, sits at the bay's edge. The steep mile-long trail down to the bay offers stunning views, while the Rubicon Trail provides scenic shoreline hiking. Eagle Falls cascades nearby, and the clarity of Tahoe's waters creates unforgettable swimming and kayaking.
* State park fees vary by park, season, and residency. Confirm current rates on the official website.
Accepted Passes
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Donner Memorial State Park
Lake Tahoe area park with Donner Party history, alpine lake, and year-round recreation.
Why go: Similar alpine terrain, swimming, hiking experience
Around 27 miles away
