Home | Adventures | Land Adventures | Hiking | Guided Hiking Tours of Emerald Bay & D.L. Bliss State Park
Highlights
- Stretch your legs or test your limits in the inspiring natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
- Enjoy Tahoe’s forests, smelling the fresh scent of the pines.
- Reduce stress and recharge in Lake Tahoe's serene environment.
- Enjoy fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature.
Tour Description
Emerald Bay is the image most people have in mind when they picture Lake Tahoe. The deep turquoise water, the granite cliffs, Fanette Island rising out of the bay, and Vikingsholm — a Scandinavian-style castle built on the shoreline in 1929 — combine to make this one of the most visually stunning spots in California. It is also one of the most rewarding places to hike in the entire Tahoe basin, and Tahoe Adventure Company's guides will show you sides of it most visitors never see.The Rubicon Trail runs 4.5 miles along the western shore of Lake Tahoe, connecting D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay. It follows the water closely, passing through boulder fields and old-growth forest with views of the lake around nearly every turn. It is consistently listed among the best day hikes in California. Walking it with a guide who knows the geology, the history of the Washoe people who lived along this shore, and the story of how Lora Josephine Knight built her remarkable Scandinavian-style estate at the head of the bay in 1929 adds an entirely different dimension to the experience.
What to Expect
• Guided hike along the Rubicon Trail through Emerald Bay and D.L. Bliss State Parks
• Shoreline walking with continuous views of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay
• Views of Fanette Island — the only island in Lake Tahoe
• Optional visit to Vikingsholm, a National Historic Landmark open seasonally — typically late June through Labor Day (confirm current season with California State Parks when booking)
• Natural and human history of the Emerald Bay area from a certified local guide
• Flexible distance — half-day and full-day options; shorter out-and-back or full Rubicon Trail available
Note on Parking and Access
Emerald Bay State Park has limited parking and a day-use fee. During summer weekends the lot fills early. Your guide will walk you through the best approach for parking and arrival when you book — and arriving with a guided group means you can focus on the hike rather than logistics.
Combine With a Kayak Tour
Emerald Bay is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in the area as well. If your group wants to experience the bay from both above and on the water, ask about combining a hiking tour with a kayak tour — either on the same day or on separate days during a longer stay.
Reserve Your Emerald Bay Hiking Tour
Summer availability fills quickly, especially for private tours on weekends. We recommend booking in advance. Call (530) 913-9212 or send an email with your preferred dates and group size.
We have many other Guided Hiking Options including Judah Loop, Castle Peak, Martis Lookout, Martis Valley, Spooner Lake State Park, Van Sickle State Park, Granite Cheif + Shirley Canyon, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikes and more! TAC specialists suggest the best hiking trail based on ability level and lodging location. Call our office to discuss options!
Is the Rubicon Trail suitable for kids?
Yes, with the right expectations. The shoreline sections are manageable for older children and the trail is relatively flat. We can adjust pace and rest stops for family groups. Let us know ages and fitness levels when you book.
Can we visit Vikingsholm on the tour?
Yes, seasonally. Vikingsholm is typically open for guided tours late June through Labor Day, though the exact season varies — we confirm current hours when you book.
How long is the Rubicon Trail?
The full trail is approximately 4.5 miles one-way between D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay. We offer out-and-back options for shorter hikes or the full one-way trail for groups who want to cover the whole route.
Is this the same area where TAC offers kayaking?
Yes. Emerald Bay is one of our core kayaking locations as well. We can discuss combining a hike and a paddle if your group wants to experience the area from both land and water.
Blog
- Things To Do : August 2026 Edition
- Things To Do : July 2026 Edition
- Emerald Bay Parking: What Every Lake Tahoe Visitor Should Know
- Things To Do: June 2026 Edition
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- Tahoe Daily Tribune: Report: Pollution from sediment in Lake Tahoe reduced by 600k pounds in 2021
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