Eagle Falls Trail begins from the striking overlook of Emerald Bay, a blue-green inlet on Lake Tahoe. Gaze at the serene cove, with Fannette Island a picturesque sight topped by ruins of a stone teahouse. Follow the path down to the lake’s edge. The trail is wide and smooth, but may be too steep for strollers or wheelchairs.
At lake level, tour Vikingsholm castle, a marvel of Scandinavian architecture. It’s almost directly below the trailhead, but the path meanders for 1.1 miles (1.8 kilometers) to reduce the steepness of the descent. Vikingsholm and the Emerald Bay Visitor Center are open from June through September. Continue south from here to hike up slightly to view Lower Eagle Falls.
You can also hike uphill along the Eagle Lake Trail on the opposite side of the highway. This 2 mile (3.2-kilometer) round-trip loop leads to Upper Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake along a rough trail, with stone steps and some amount of clambering. Pick up the required wilderness permit at the trailhead. Hike to the lake in warm weather to appreciate the stunning views of a glacial peak reflecting in the water and take a swim in the chilly water. When the trail is passable in winter and the ice on the lake is thick, locals hike up with gear to skate or play ice hockey.
Note that both waterfalls vary dramatically through the year. Expect to see limited flow in summer and fall and fairly vigorous cascades in spring, especially after winters with heavy snowfall. As you’re hiking, watch for soaring birds of prey. The lake, creek and waterfalls are named for the bald eagles and golden eagles that once lived here.
Drive about 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of South Lake Tahoe or 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of Tahoma to reach the trailhead for Eagle Falls Trail. Pay a fee to park in the lot right off the highway. Use the restrooms before following the trail. Climb onto the rocks bordering the lot for additional excellent views. The trailhead may close between November and May depending on snow levels.
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