Emerald Point Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
159 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Emerald Point Trail is a stunning nature walk along the shoreline cliffs of Emerald Bay. Wander through red firs, quaking aspens, and mixed pines—enjoying sights of the High Sierra and the famous Lake Tahoe along the way.

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Route Description for Emerald Point Trail

The Emerald Point Trail is one of our favorite nature walks near South Lake Tahoe. Venture along the shoreline of Emerald Bay, enjoying the sights of boaters, kayakers, swimmers, and paddle boarders enjoying the alpine waters in the summer months! Open year-round, you can admire a different perspective of the lake with a pair of microspikes or snowshoes! Note that this route is a popular destination, so if you seek a sequestered experience, we suggest heading out in the early morning or off-season. Note the Emerald Bay State Park charges a fee to park; refer to the website for additional information.

Setting out from the Vikingsholm Trailhead, the Emerald Point Hike follows the Vikingsholm Trail down a switchback before merging onto the rightmost Rubicon-Emerald Bay Trail. This route will guide you south down to the Vikingsholm where you will be redirected north along the Rubicon Trail. This section of the hike will likely be busier, so don’t be surprised If you must share the trail! Meander northeast along this path, near the shoreline, weaving between open terrain and tree shade.

Eventually, you will pass the Boat Camp before reaching the point—which is where we turned around. If you still have some gas in the tank, you can explore the Rubicon Trail further! When you are ready to head back, simply retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Emerald Point Trail Trailhead

The Emerald Point Trail departs from the Vikingsholm Trailhead and Parking Lot off Emerald Bay Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Extreme

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Emerald Point Trail Elevation Graph

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Emerald Point Trail Reviews

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