The Lake Tahoe Water Trail ~ A Seven Day Adventure Tour Like No Other

Lake Tahoe Nevada – Looking for your next great adventure challenge? You have climbed the highest peaks, traveled great distances, survived the onslaught of mosquitos at your favorite wilderness escape. But have you paddled the full circle of Lake Tahoe. Are you ready for a 72 mile paddle journey? Lucky for all of us the Lake Tahoe water trail breaks this epic adventure into 7 special sections ready for all comers wanting to escape the busy streets and trails of the region and enjoy the magic of lake Tahoe water. The Lake Tahoe Water Trail is 72 miles, circumnavigating the shoreline.

LOOK FOR THE TRAILHEAD MARKER!

There are 20 marked “trailheads” around the lake, indicated by this trailhead marker and signage. You may launch and land your kayak or standup paddle board at these locations.

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Tahoe City Day Trips – 8.5 mile paddle

The Tahoe City area of North Shore offers good paddling for a range of ability levels and access to natural and cultural resources from area beaches. Tour the historic Gatekeeper’s Museum at Lake Tahoe’s outlet at the Truckee River...more & Maps

North Shore Day Trips – 9,8 mile paddle

The North Shore of Lake Tahoe offers good paddling for all ability levels. Multiple public launch and landing sites exist with on-site amenities. Land in Kings Beach and enjoy the shopping and restaurants along the highway or in Tahoe Vista for lunch or a visit to an art gallery.  ... More & Maps

Sand Harbor Day Trips 15.9 mile paddle

From Sand Harbor, paddlers access the remote and rocky shoreline of Lake Tahoe. Most of Tahoe’s East Shore in this area is publicly owned and small inlets offer just enough beach to land for a quiet picnic lunch. Your favorite iconic photograph of a kayak or paddleboard floating in the crystal clear water above a rocky lakebed was probably taken in this area. The only launch site shown on this map is at Sand Harbor and the parking lot fills up fast during the summer; plan to launch before 10 am so you can spend the day….. More and Maps

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Lake tahoe Cave Rock
Lake tahoe Cave Rock

Cave Rock Day Trips 10.8 mile paddle

The Cave Rock area of Lake Tahoe’s East Shore offers good paddling for all ability levels and the chance to paddle close to a rugged shoreline. Pine trees perched in a field of jumbled boulders and small inlets ringed with willows create an iconic picture of paddling on Lake Tahoe….. More and Maps

South Shore Day Trips 13.7 mile paddle

South Lake Tahoe offers good paddling for all ability levels along endless miles of sandy beaches. Stay at the historic resorts at Zephyr Cove or Camp Richardson, visit the Tallac Historic site, hike or bike a nearby trail, enjoy bird watching in wetland sanctuaries, picnic on the beach, or stop at a lakeside bistro; all accessed easily from the water….. More and Maps

Emerald bay Lake tahoe
Emerald bay Lake tahoe

Emerald Bay Day Trips 9.9 mile paddle

Emerald Bay is one of the most photographed spots on earth and is the jewel of Lake Tahoe. Paddle close to towering mountains, Eagle Creek with its waterfalls, and the historic Vikingsholm castle. Emerald Bay is an excellent place to bird watch. Be on the lookout for bald eagles and osprey soaring above….. More and Maps

West Shore Day Trips – 10.4 mile paddle

The West Shore of Lake Tahoe offers good paddling for a range of ability levels and a diversity of natural and cultural resource paddling opportunities. Land your boat at Kaspian Beach and take a short hike to the top of Eagle Rock. Or paddle along Sugar Pine Point State Park to watch the birds or tour the historic Ehrman Mansion. …. More and Maps

Lake Tahoe is big. Really big. So are the conditions.

Lake Tahoe Water is always cold, even on the hottest days of summer. Be prepared for changing winds, waves, and other rapid changes in weather.