1. Emerald Bay State Park is located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe in California. It encompasses over 2,000 acres and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The centerpiece of the park is Emerald Bay, a picturesque inlet with crystal clear turquoise waters surrounded by towering granite cliffs.
One of the most famous attractions in Emerald Bay State Park is Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-style castle built in 1929 by Lora Josephine Knight. This historic mansion is a marvel of architecture and design and is open for guided tours during the summer months.
The park also offers several hiking trails, including the popular Emerald Bay Trail. This trail leads visitors down to the shoreline and offers breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding forest. There is also a short trail that leads to Lower Eagle Falls, a beautiful waterfall cascading down into the bay.
Emerald Bay is also home to the underwater Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail, which features several submerged historic boats and barges. Diving and snorkeling are popular activities in the bay, allowing visitors to explore these underwater attractions.
2. Emerald Bay State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The park does not have a phone number, but you can contact the nearby D.L. Bliss State Park at (530) 525-7277 for more information.
3. There is no entry fee to visit Emerald Bay State Park. However, there is a fee for parking, which is $10 per vehicle. There are limited parking spaces available, especially during peak season, so it is recommended to arrive early. The park is accessible by car and there is a parking lot near the Vikingsholm mansion. There is also a shuttle service available during the summer months. Boat tours to Emerald Bay are also available from various locations around Lake Tahoe.
