We were there a bit before the summer season started (first week of June) so information about when things were open, parking availability, and tour times were a bit scattered. When you go, it's best to call ahead to get the right information, because Google has been wrong before (and even the people in the booth by the parking lot had incorrect info) and the past schedule for activities doesn't necessarily dictate the current one. Once the season starts, I'm sure it'll be back to a typical schedule. We didn't have any trouble getting parking at 3pm on a Wednesday. Get the "until dusk" parking for $10 and leave enough time to get tickets at the visitor center. The walk down is fine enough for able-bodied people, but take your time on the walk up. We're out-of-shape normies, but that doesn't mean we don't deserve to appreciate nature! It took us about 15 min going down and 35 min coming up (but it was a struggle ngl). I didn't see anyone post any photos of the trail going up, so I was sure to include some here. I wouldn't approve this for my elderly grandparents, but I would ok it for my asthmatic father. No shame in taking a breather going up--leave taking scenic photos for the return trip to have an excuse to stop! Bring water and be sure to cover up/use SPF because there isn't consistent tree cover (and I burned...
Read moreDuring my visit to Vikingsholm in Lake Tahoe with my daughter, we had an amazing time exploring the area. The weather was cloudy, but it added a nice and crisp atmosphere to our hike. We started by hanging out on the beach, enjoying the serene surroundings and the sound of the waves. The hike to the waterfall was truly breathtaking, with the cascading water creating a mesmerizing sight.
As we made our way back, we took a wrong turn and got a bit lost. However, we didn't mind at all because we were engrossed in a wonderful conversation, appreciating the beauty of nature around us. Luckily, we quickly found our way back on track.
One thing I noticed about the trail is that it is wide and easily accessible, making it suitable for elderly people and those with disabilities. This inclusivity is commendable and allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of Vikingsholm. Additionally, having a bathroom at the bottom of the trail was quite convenient.
Overall, our experience at Vikingsholm was unforgettable. From the beach to the waterfall and the enjoyable hike, it provided us with a perfect opportunity to bond and appreciate the wonders of...
Read moreThere are several beautiful spots and trails in the Tahoe area. We discovered this one-mile descent from the Vikingsholm parking lot on 89S all the way down (500 ft) to the Emerald Bay and to the Vikingsholm mansion. When you reach the bottom, especially on days when there is not as much traffic, you feel like going into a meditative state. The water is calm, the mountains around you are timeless with their stories, and the trees stand tall and proud. A couple of ducks might walk over to check you out, but that's it. No noise, no people, just the beauty of nature that you can take in for hours. I know there are many other things to do in Tahoe, but if you are in the South Lake Tahoe region, take a few hours off to do this. I walked this trail multiple times, and feel the same energy when I reach the bay every time. Of course, the mansion is a great thing to see as well, but it is the trek down, the serene beauty, and the solitude that make it worthwhile. The climb back is strenuous, especially if you are not in a good physical condition, so make sure you take your time going back up. For the reasonably fit people, it is not a...
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