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You are here: Home / Blog / Lake Tahoe Pictures: Check out this Gorgeous Place!

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Lake Tahoe Pictures: Check out this Gorgeous Place!

Once in a while, I like to remember trips I have taken. After all, as the saying goes, remembering is reliving.

The other day I found myself going through pictures of Lake Tahoe.  I am still in awe because of the many gorgeous spots we were able to witness.  The turquoise waters, snow-covered mountains, verdant pines and puffy clouds left an indelible mark on my memory.

It has been a while since I have produced an article dedicated to pictures.  Of course, my posts tend to be photo heavy but there is something soothing about seeing pictures of a place, without other distractions, and dreaming of going or revisiting.

So, I want to take this opportunity to present you with Lake Tahoe pictures!

Table of Contents

  • Where is Lake Tahoe
  • Lake Tahoe Facts
  • Lake Tahoe Pictures – California
    • Rainbow Trail
    • Emerald Bay
    • D.L Bliss State Park
    • Sugar Pine Point State Park
    • Tahoe City
  • Lake Tahoe Pictures – Nevada
    • Skunk Harbor
    • Secret Cove Beach / Harbor
    • Sand Harbor
  • Photo Taking Recommendations
  • Lake Tahoe Resources
  • More Lake Escapes
    • Related posts:

Where is Lake Tahoe

Before starting our photo show, it would be a good idea to discuss certain details about Tahoe.  It is a popular place in California but, yes, I know, not everybody that reads this site is a resident of the state.

Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake located in the Sierra Nevada.  It is shared between the states of California (2/3) and Nevada (1/3).  Because of its elevation, it is considered an alpine lake.

The lake is located northwest of San Francisco and Sacramento.  Picturing the coast, the lake is aligned in terms of longitude with Mendocino.

The lake is located 200 miles from San Francisco (4 hours) and 500 miles from Los Angeles (7 to 8 hours).

Lake Tahoe Facts

This is no ordinary lake.  Here are some reasons why Lake Tahoe is special:

  • Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America
  • It is the second deepest lake in the United States
  • It has a length of 22 miles and a width of 12 miles
  • To circumnavigate the lake, you have to drive 72 miles
  • The lake never freezes
  • Fannette Island on Emerald Bay is the only island on the lake
  • Tahoe is known for its ski resorts, water activities, hiking, biking and gambling (remember part of the shore is in Nevada)
  • Mark Twain described the clarity of the lake on one of his books

Lake Tahoe Pictures – California

We will start by taking a look at pictures of the places I visited on the California side.

Rainbow Trail

We stopped by the Taylor Creek Visitor Center to walk the Rainbow Trail.  We were in town during the time Kokanee Salmon travel upstream to mate (we saw tons of them).

In addition, we had the opportunity to walk around the largest meadow/marsh in the area.

Rainbow Route, Lake Tahoe

Rainbow Trail, Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay

This is by far the most popular spot in Lake Tahoe.

If you take a look at a map of the lake you are going to notice “an arm” popping out the shore close to the town of South Lake Tahoe.  Well, that is gorgeous Emerald Bay!

For unbelievable views of this spot, stop by Inspiration Point.

Inspiration Point, Lake Tahoe

Inspiration Point, Lake Tahoe

Inspiration Point, Lake Tahoe

Mountain, Lake Tahoe

Fannette Island, Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Pictures

Inspiration Point, Emerald Bay, Pictures of Lake Tahoe

Inspiration Point, Emerald Bay, Pictures of Lake Tahoe

Inspiration Point, Emerald Bay, Pictures of Lake Tahoe

Inspiration Point, Emerald Bay, Pictures of Lake Tahoe

If you want to take a more in-depth look at the bay (and you should), plan to walk the Vikingsholm Trail.  This trail starts from the stone observation area above the bay and takes you to an authentic replica of a Viking Castle.  Magnificent views of the bay will follow you at all times.

Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Photography

Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Photography

Fannette Island, Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Pictures

Fannette Island, Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Pictures

Fannette Island, Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe Pictures

D.L Bliss State Park

This park is located on the western shore of the lake, north of Emerald Bay and offers camping sites, beaches and hiking trails (one of the most popular is the Rubicon Trail).

D.L. Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe

D.L. Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe

D.L. Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe

D.L. Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe

Sugar Pine Point State Park

Another park offering camping facilities, a nature center, a beach and several water activities. I was particularly pleased to check out the pier and the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion.

Sugar Pine Point State Park, Photos of Lake Tahoe

Sugar Pine Point State Park, Photos of Lake Tahoe

Sugar Pine Point State Park, Photos of Lake Tahoe

Sugar Pine Point State Park, Photos of Lake Tahoe

Tahoe City

In Tahoe City, I spotted several piers behind a small shopping center.  We parked the car and were able to take in turquoise water and cabins flanked by yellow trees.  If you want to find this place, go to the Tahoe Gal embarkation point.

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Pier, Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe Photos

Lake Tahoe Pictures – Nevada

Are you tired of Lake Tahoe pictures yet?  I imagine you want to continue exploring this place.  Here are photos of the places I visited on the Nevada side.

Skunk Harbor

This “hidden” beach can only be accessed by a 1.6-mile long trail.  It is considered an easy trail but you should be vigilant if you intend to do it with kids.

Now, the trailhead is easy to miss (there is no sign pointing to it).  On Highway 28, about two miles north of Highway 50, you are going to find parking space on a turnout along the road.  The right spot to start the hike is marked by a green gate.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe, Fun Things to do in Lake Tahoe, Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe, Nevada Side Lake Tahoe

Secret Cove Beach / Harbor

There is no sign pointing to the beach but you are going to see an actual parking lot (north of Skunk Harbor).  The gorgeous emerald colored water is going to be noticeable right away.  Take in the breathtaking views before attempting the hike down.

Drive Around Lake Tahoe, Secret Cove Lake Tahoe, Secret Cove Beach, Secret Harbor Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches,

Secret Cove Lake Tahoe, Secret Cove Beach, Secret Harbor Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Secret Cove Lake Tahoe, Secret Cove Beach, Secret Harbor Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Sand Harbor

If you want to check out gorgeous views without breaking a sweat, Sand Harbor is the place for you.  I completely adored this place.  There is so much to see and you have tons of facilities.  It is another spot to spend the entire day.

Sand Harbor Beach, Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Sand Harbor Beach, Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Sand Harbor Beach, Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Sand Harbor Beach, Best Beaches in Lake Tahoe, Tahoe Beaches

Photo Taking Recommendations

I have provided several ideas for those who want to go on a photo safari around Lake Tahoe.  Here are some suggestions to make the most of the trip.

  • The Tahoe area can get very congested during times of the year. Start your day early if you want to take pictures without people
  • Also, I will recommend going to Emerald Bay first thing in the morning. Parking is very limited in the area.  We had to leave the first time we drove by
  • Be careful when parking on the street. I saw people parking in dangerous spots (blind curves) or getting tickets after parking on restricted areas
  • Some of the best views of the lake are inside state parks. Therefore, bring some cash to pay the fees.  One ticket will grant you all day access to the parks in one state.  Because of that, it is a good idea to check the parks in California one day and the parks in Nevada the following day. You will pay a fee on the first park you visit on that day and keep proof of payment (on your windshield) when accessing other parks in the state.  Just remember a ticket bought in Nevada will not work to access a park in California and vice versa
  • Check out the parks operating hours. Some close during winter

Lake Tahoe Resources

Visit the following websites for information on where to eat and stay on your sightseeing trip:

  • My post about driving around Lake Tahoe showcases the best spots to check out on the Nevada side
  • Official Lake Tahoe Visitors Bureaus
  • Tahoe South
  • Go Tahoe North

More Lake Escapes

California is a land of lakes.  If you enjoy these bodies of water, check out these posts:

  • Mammoth Lakes Basin
  • June Lake Loop
  • Mono Lake
  • Bishop Creek
  • Guide to Big Bear Lake

In summary, Lake Tahoe is a magical place that deserves some time for exploration.  Hope these photos have left a positive impression on the place!

What do you think about these Lake Tahoe pictures?  California or Nevada?

If you enjoyed this post, remember to share!

Pin me, please!

Things to do in Lake Tahoe - #California #Nevada #USA – Travel ideas for summer or winter, for a honeymoon or with kids - I am still in awe because of the many gorgeous spots we were able to witness at Lake Tahoe.  The turquoise waters, snow-covered mountains, verdant pines, amazing trails and puffy clouds left an indelible mark on my memory. I want to take this opportunity to present you with Lake Tahoe pictures! #EmeraldBay #SouthLakeTahoe

Related posts:

View from Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary 5 Days5-Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary Golden Gate Bridge seen from Postcard Overlook, San Francisco Itinerary, CaliforniaSan Francisco Itinerary: 1, 2, or 3 Days in San Francisco Cannery Row Area in Monterey, CaliforniaLos Angeles to San Francisco Drive: Inland Road Trip Itinerary Point Cabrillo, Things to Do in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, CaliforniaThings to Do in Fort Bragg, California


54 Comments

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Comments

  1. Carol says

    March 5, 2018 at 8:14 am

    Gorgeous blues – the photos are beautiful. Wonderful post!

    Reply
  2. Felicia says

    March 5, 2018 at 4:09 pm

    It is a gorgeous place and your pics are beautiful.

    Reply
  3. image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says

    March 5, 2018 at 4:14 pm

    Oh WOW – these shots are stunning. Such a beautiful setting, and the colors are so vivid.
    Thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/03/orchids-endless-source-of-beauty.html

    Reply
  4. Divya says

    March 5, 2018 at 5:04 pm

    Gorgeous, gorgeous Tahoe. And such breathtakingly beautiful pictures of the lake and it’s surroundings. Your pictures make me want to plan a trip. Gosh, it’s been a while.
    Pinning this post. Thank you for some ideas for my next trip, Ruth. 🙂

    Reply
  5. Andrea says

    March 5, 2018 at 5:40 pm

    Your photos are great, i din’t mind they are so many. Thanks for taking me to this famous landmark. The blues are so vivid and very serene. I hope you can visit our El Nido, which is now also famous. Island hoping here provides much difference but beautiful too.

    Reply
  6. Fun60 says

    March 6, 2018 at 12:42 am

    The colours of the water are fabulous. Enjoyed the photos and thank you for the info at the beginning of the post.

    Reply
  7. Lady Fi says

    March 6, 2018 at 7:08 am

    Oh my – fabulously gorgeous!

    Reply
  8. Heather says

    March 7, 2018 at 6:54 am

    What gorgeous photos. The Nevada side looks particularly appealing. The water almost has the color of parts of the Caribbean.

    Reply
  9. Lisa says

    March 7, 2018 at 7:03 am

    I’ve read so much about Lake Tahoe recently and I’m really hoping I’ll be able to visit soon your pictures are super stunning! #WanderfulWednesday

    Reply
  10. tanya says

    March 7, 2018 at 8:14 am

    Waaaa it looks so beautiful, especially Skunk Bay. I think Europeans kind of forget about some of the beautiful nature America has to offer, but this is definitely a good reminder. I love lakes and trees, makes me feel happy and calm, so have loved looking at your photos.

    Reply
  11. Kristin says

    March 7, 2018 at 8:59 am

    Beautiful! I feel like all of these photos could be made into a gorgeous landscape painting. I have never been to Lake Tahoe, but I would love to do some wild camping and hiking here with my pup.

    Reply
  12. Esther says

    March 7, 2018 at 9:13 am

    I had to skip this last time, as I ran out of time. How WRONG I was. Love your photos!!
    #WanderfulWednesday

    Reply
  13. Kristen Tcherneshoff says

    March 7, 2018 at 9:19 am

    I’ve only seen photos of Lake Tahoe in the wintertime, so in my head it’s always been a skiing area, but MAN is it gorgeous outside of winter, too! Lovely photos — they are seriously creating some wanderlust 😀

    Reply
  14. Sarah says

    March 7, 2018 at 9:57 am

    Oh, I’ve always wanted to go here. What beautiful photos!! Just surreal.

    Reply
  15. Sushmita Malakar says

    March 7, 2018 at 10:18 am

    This is such a dreamy destination! I really wish I can visit California sometime soon 🙂

    Thanks for such an amazing post.

    Reply
  16. beatravelling says

    March 7, 2018 at 10:32 am

    So this is Lake Tahoe. I’ve heard about it. This is very nice!! #wanderfulwednesday

    Reply
  17. Allison says

    March 7, 2018 at 11:28 am

    Lake Tahoe is so beautiful! I can’t believe I haven’t been there yet. #WanderfulWednesday

    Reply
  18. Heidi says

    March 7, 2018 at 12:32 pm

    Lake Tahoe is on my list of places to get to in Callie, but wow, your photos really bring it to life. That gorgeous water and of course the mountain views. It seems we always head to the coast when in California but we’ve really got to get over to Tahoe. And you’re right, it’s nice seeing the story in photos at times especially when they are so soothing.

    Reply
  19. California Globetrotter says

    March 7, 2018 at 1:07 pm

    I always believe in getting up early to do anything while traveling, especially for pictures without people! It’s just so much more intimate to experience a place without the hustle and bustle! As usual, a tinge of homesickness as I read this! #WanderfulWednesday

    Reply
  20. jill says

    March 7, 2018 at 1:31 pm

    It’s so stunning and picturesque! I didn’t make it to the Nevada side but I truly enjoyed my day there exploring the California side. I would so love to go back! Love your photos, Ruth.

    Reply
  21. Stella Jane says

    March 7, 2018 at 2:42 pm

    What amazing photographs! I have heard of Lake Tahoe, but I didn’t realize that it had a Nevada side. The water is so unbelievably blue. I hope that there’s a way for me to get there one day without a car.

    Reply
  22. Teja says

    March 8, 2018 at 1:02 am

    American lakes are so, so beautiful. The water looks so clear even though the lake is so big!

    Reply
  23. Christine | The Journey of Christine says

    March 8, 2018 at 7:08 am

    Swoon! These pics are gorgeous! I have been been wanting to go to Lake Tahoe and these pictures are giving me total wanderlust!

    Reply
  24. Taryn says

    March 8, 2018 at 10:09 am

    Lake Tahoe is on my Bucket List of places to travel! I’m pinning this for later! 🙂

    Reply
  25. Margy says

    March 8, 2018 at 1:53 pm

    We went there camping when I was a kid. I am sure it has changed a lot. – Margy

    Reply
  26. Katherine says

    March 8, 2018 at 5:32 pm

    Your pictures are making me want to get to Tahoe! Every year I try to drag my boyfriend there but he always uses the “it’s too expensive” excuse. This year is my year! I’m showing him your post.

    Reply
  27. Angie (FeetDoTravel) says

    March 8, 2018 at 10:39 pm

    I always take a plethora of photographs wherever I go as I like to look back and remember visiting a place. It works doesn’t it 😀 I’m so happy you had a wonderful trip down memory lane and these photos are stunning! The blueness of the water and in others, it’s crystal clear. Love the reflective shots, what a magical place Lake Tahoe truly is. Pinned. #feetdotravel

    Reply
  28. Shona says

    March 8, 2018 at 11:22 pm

    Just wow! They are such stunning photos, Ruth. I’m currently day-dreaming about living in the house right on the edge of the lake and having my morning coffee at the end of the jetty out front. Wow again! 🙂

    Reply
  29. Jenn | By Land and Sea says

    March 9, 2018 at 4:44 am

    Lake Tahoe is a place I’ve really been wanting to go and it’s not too far from home, so it really is possible to get there easily. It looks absolutely beautiful!

    Reply
  30. Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says

    March 9, 2018 at 5:12 am

    Great pictures and information on Lake Tahoe. A must see place when visiting California. I have been there but just driving around the lake and not stopping. I must return and visit Skunk Harbor and Sand Harbor which look like great places along the lake for a fun day. Great locations you mentioned to take some wonderful photos here. Thanks for sharing ? #feetdotravel

    Reply
  31. Cheryl says

    March 9, 2018 at 1:25 pm

    Lake Taho is so beautiful! Your photos are some of the best I’ve seen of the area. I haven’t made it there yet, but it’s on my list! Hopefully one day my full-time travel dreams will come true so I have time to check off all the items on that endless list. Have a great weekend!

    Reply
  32. Anisa says

    March 9, 2018 at 2:47 pm

    Beautiful photos. I love Lake Tahoe. In my mind, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful places in the US. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.

    Reply
  33. Sapna says

    March 9, 2018 at 8:42 pm

    Gorgeous pictures. I fall in love with the place by going through your post. Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply
  34. Tanja/The Red Phone Box travels says

    March 10, 2018 at 1:34 am

    so beautiful! #theweeklypostcard

    Reply
  35. Jo says

    March 10, 2018 at 2:05 am

    So stunningly beautiful. I can see why Mark Twain commented on the clarity it really is amazing. Would love to visit Lake Tahoe this evening views are incredible and so are your pictures. #weekly postcard

    Reply
  36. Kate says

    March 10, 2018 at 6:23 am

    Wow! It’s hard to believe someplace this beautiful exists in the US. I cannot believe how clear that water is or that it never freezes! This looks like the perfect way to reconnect with nature and have a truly tranquil getaway.

    Reply
  37. Hannah says

    March 10, 2018 at 7:23 am

    Your photos are beautiful! I’ve never been to California but would love to someday, and will definitely try to visit Lake Tahoe!

    Reply
  38. Travel Lexx says

    March 10, 2018 at 10:02 am

    Amazing photos – we stayed on the shores of the lake and had a chance to explore a bit too. Emerald Bay is so beautiful and we really enjoyed walking to the viewpoints and seeing the lake in all its glory. Definitely somewhere I would like to return to one day! I didn’t know that the areas around it are super popular as skiing destinations!

    Reply
  39. Harmony, Momma To Go says

    March 10, 2018 at 10:58 am

    So living on the east coast, I always here people talk about “Tahoe” and going to “Tahoe for the weekend” But I never really knew what it was! These photos are gorgeous! I love the blue of the lake and sky. Reminds how grey our sky is here in NY – I guess due to pollution! Happy #WeekendWanderlust

    Reply
  40. Emese says

    March 10, 2018 at 12:12 pm

    Gorgeous pictures! Lake Tahoe is indeed one of the most beautiful places in the US. I love how clear the water is. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  41. Anda says

    March 10, 2018 at 2:26 pm

    What a great collection of Lake Tahoe photos! Good choice to photograph that orange kayak on the lake. It makes a beautiful contrast in the picture. I absolutely love this place, but I have never visited it in summer. It’s probably more crowded than in winter, since there are so many more things to do during the warm season. #TheWeeklyPostcard

    Reply
  42. Maggie says

    March 11, 2018 at 7:52 am

    Gorgeous pictures!!! I haven’t been to Lake Tahoe yet, but I’m definitely looking forward to one day seeing it in person! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  43. Nyla says

    March 11, 2018 at 3:47 pm

    These are such beautiful photos, very nice place. I would love to go there one day.
    #theweeklypostcard

    Reply
  44. Rhonda Albom says

    March 11, 2018 at 8:17 pm

    All those photos do bring back memories of when I lived in Stateline. Hubby and I hiked many of those trails plus a number of the ones at altitude (yes, I got winded but so did he). A couple of other fun facts – you can pick pine nuts at the right time of year and the bark of the Jeffrey pine tree (common in the area) smells like vanilla.

    Reply
  45. Vanessa Brune says

    March 12, 2018 at 2:13 am

    What an incredible place! Lake Tahoe is definitely on my US bucket list! I mean those views are just too beautiful to be true <3

    Reply
  46. Sandra says

    March 12, 2018 at 2:29 am

    Those pictures are absolutely stunning! I’ve always wanted to go to Lake Tahoe. It looks like such an amazing place to hike. I hope to get there someday.
    #TheWeeklyPostcard

    Reply
  47. Urska | sliva says

    March 14, 2018 at 12:01 am

    Oh, what a gorgeous place! Really like your photos. Tahoe Lake looks like a paradise to me – pure nature, lots of possibilities for outdoor activities, definitely on my bucket list.

    Reply
  48. Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

    March 14, 2018 at 7:21 pm

    What great photos, Ruth! Personally partial to the California side, but only because that’s where we always stayed when I was a kid. I had almost forgotten how absolutely beautiful the water is, and the surrounding mountains just complete the scene. Going to have to go back for a visit, since it’s been at least 20 years since I’ve been! (Yikes…time really does fly!) Thanks for linking up with us for #TheWeeklyPostcard and also #WeekendWanderlust!

    Reply
  49. Kalpanaa says

    March 16, 2018 at 8:25 pm

    Stunning photos. I was transported back to my visit to Lake Tahoe – over 20 years ago. We didn’t have a digital camera then so can’t enjoy the photos anymore. Have a great weekend.

    Reply
  50. Trippin' Turpins (Kelly) says

    March 16, 2018 at 10:53 pm

    Absolutely stunning photos!

    Reply
  51. Tadej says

    March 21, 2018 at 1:35 am

    The water is so clean and calm, love it. I think this is a place where campers are spending their quality time.

    Reply
  52. Mary says

    March 22, 2018 at 12:50 pm

    Stunning photography for an amazing place. It has a little bit of everything. Mountains, water, blue sky, beautiful.

    Reply
  53. sallie rainville says

    March 22, 2018 at 3:49 pm

    Beautiful tour! The Lake is so blue — we’ve been there but it has been a while … thank you for the memories. (Our trip was before I was into photography — so definitely appreciate your stunning pictures.)

    Reply
  54. CJ says

    April 19, 2024 at 10:31 am

    Wow! These Lake Tahoe pictures are absolutely stunning! Such a gorgeous place to explore and soak in the beauty of nature. 😍

    Reply

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