Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay lies on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe on Highway 89, 22 miles (35 km) south of Tahoe City and 12 miles (19 km) north of South Lake Tahoe. The bay includes Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, which has a stone teahouse. It can be reached only by watercraft. The bay was named a National Natural Landmark in 1969, and in 1994 an underwater state park with a maritime heritage trail was added. The best-known view is from Inspiration Point, an overlook with paved paths about 600 ft (180 m) above the bay.

The steep trail to Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-style mansion, is about 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip with a climb of roughly 400 ft (120 m); the return is uphill. The Rubicon Trail links the bay with D. L. Bliss State Park over 7.4 miles (12 km). In midsummer the parking lot is usually full by about 10 a.m., and vehicles may be no longer than 18 ft (5.5 m). In winter, chains are sometimes required on Highway 89, and dogs are not allowed on trails or beaches.