A fun thing to do is to make a loop out of both. There are two main trails to choose from that end in the same place near the bridge over the dam between Fallen Leaf Lake and Taylor Creek. Snowshoeing at Cathedral Meadow requires a sno-park permit that can be purchased online. On the return, you’ll see Heavenly Mountain Resort California side ski runs to your left. Tallac across the bay and marsh areas are awe inspiring and photo opportunities abound. To extend the experience continue north until you reach Baldwin Bay. The Valhalla Estate is a magnificent timber structure that features a large hall that the Heller family built in 1923. While the historic buildings aren’t open it’s easy to imagine the grandeur and opulence of life at Lake Tahoe for the Bay Area elite Pope, Heller and Baldwin families that built the mansions at the end of the 19th century. Parking may be available at the Beacon Restaurant, but if not, walk down Jameson Beach Rd to the shoreline (the Beacon Restaurant is there) and head to your left or go along the bike path to Valhalla Rd, turn right and start in. Gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe become evident after about 20 minutes of climbing up the entry trail.Ĭamp Richardson through the Tallac Heritage Site is a gentle, cruiser snowshoe experience mostly along the shore of Lake Tahoe. You’ll find massive, granite boulders left over from the last glacial period on this trail along with loads of Tamarack pines. It’s a good idea to rent poles along with the snowshoes on this trail as even the easier trails have some up and down terrain. It’s a gateway to the Tahoe Rim Trail so there’s plenty of opportunity to go big miles and exert major energy if desired. There’s a gentle climb to the trailhead and once you’re there, you’ll find a map to help you decide how long you want to stay out and how much effort you want to expend. If the road isn’t blanketed in snow, there’s a distinctive California/Nevada Stateline stripe along the way that’s a fun spot for photo ops. While the gates are closed during winter, foot traffic is welcome. The entry is off Lake Parkway at Heavenly Way between Heavenly Village and the Village Center.

Van Sickle Bi-State Park is an especially handy spot to snowshoe for those staying in the Stateline area because one needn’t get in their car.

Fallen leaf lake beach