Emerald Bay
On the West Shore, the Rubicon Trail begins on the beach of Bliss State Park. The trail runs along the shore of Lake Tahoe to Vikingsholm; the trail is open and extremely beautiful from May on when the sun is bright.


On the first three miles along the lake, keep your eyes peeled for Ospreys, which are seen frequently, and Bald Eagles that are seen occasionally. The Rubicon Trail enters Emerald Bay and continues for an additional 1.5 miles past the Boat Campground to Vikingsholm, one of America's best examples of Scandinavian architecture. The home was built in 1928-1929 of local materials. Even those of us who have seen it dozens of times still marvel at its construction and beauty.

While you are on this trail, take the short trail up to Eagle Falls and see the springtime deluge. The falls will be running wild, at least until late August, so keep your distance from them. The trail starts from the book store/information cabin about 100 yards south of Vikingsholm.

From Vikingsholm you have several other walking options:
--1) Turn around and return to Calawee Cove in Bliss State Park, for a 9-mile round trip.
--2) Continue on the Rubicon Trail as it goes another 1.5 miles to the campground on the south side of Emerald Bay. This less traveled section of the Rubicon Trail passes a few quiet beaches and provides a different view of the bay.
--3) If you left a car at the Vikingsholm parking lot on Highway 89 you can walk uphill (steeply) to the lot. This would complete a 5.5-mile walk from Bliss State Park.

Editor's Note: Tim Hauserman wrote the definitive guidebook to "The Tahoe Rim Trail."