Location Profile: Lake Tahoe 

Text and photos by Heather Cline 

Lake Tahoe attracts over 2.7 million visitors annually and is consistently rated one of the top locations to visit in California. This is not surprising considering the picturesque lake, scenic beaches, and variety of hiking trails. There are also plenty of resorts, restaurants, and casinos that attract tourists, but this article is focused on the scenery and photography locations. 

Here are 10 places you can capture a great photo in Tahoe:

1. Sand Harbor

Best time of year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunrise, Sunset

Good to know: State Park, Fee entry 

2. Bonsai Rock

Best time of year: Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunset

Good to know: No real trail, steep descent

3. Chimney Beach

Best time of year: Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunset

Good to know: Clothing optional beach

4. Cave Rock

Best time of year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunset

Good to know: State Park, Fee entry

5. Zephyr Cove

Best time of year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunrise, Sunset

Good to know: State Park, Fee entry

6. Kiva Beach

Best time of year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunrise, Sunset

Good to know: Trail to beach, partially in sand

7. Taylor Creek

Best time of year: Fall

Best time of day: All day

Good to know: Check conditions before you go to make sure salmon are running

8. Emerald Bay

Best time of year: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Best time of day: Sunrise

Good to know: Can get crowded during daytime in summer months

9. Eagle Falls

Best time of year: Spring, Early summer

Best time of day: Sunrise

Good to know: This requires some creek hopping on wet rocks, be cautious

10. Lake Forest Beach

Best time of year: Summer

Best time of day: Sunrise, Sunset

Good to know: Lupine doesn't bloom every year and high water levels will submerge this area

I hope you enjoyed this post. To see more of my Tahoe images, check out the gallery here.