Discover a Secret Spot within Emerald Bay's Lower Eagle Falls
If a 140 ft. tiered waterfall in Lake Tahoe doesn't inspire your next hike, a guide to a hidden swimming spot just might!
Lower Eagle Falls is a magical spot within Emerald Bay State Park. Located just a few miles from the iconic Emerald Bay Overlook, this two-tiered waterfall cascades down 140 feet and is host to a super secret swimming hole, making it a perfect escape for hikers and adventurers alike.
A Glimpse Into the Adventure
Hike Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 2.75 miles round trip
Best Time to Visit: April to October, and especially during snowmelt
Parking: $10 for day or $3 per hour (arrive early to secure a spot!). Park in allowed areas and do not park on the Highway 89 roadway. Vehicles will be towed.
Tips for Your Visit:
Arrive early: Parking fills up fast
No dogs, no drones.
Bring water: The hike back up can be challenging, especially when it’s warm
Wear layers: be ready for wind and mist
Explore more: After your hike, check out the Rubicon Trail or rent a kayak for a closer look at Fannette Island, Lake Tahoe’s only island.
Leave no trace: It’s so important for everyone to maintain access to public places such as this spot; our only way to do so is to make sure our impact on the environment is none: no trash, no music, no graffiti, etc left behind.
Trail Overview:
Starting at the Emerald Bay Overlook with this AllTrails link, the trail quickly descends through a series of switchbacks. The initial mile down to Vikingsholm is shared by those aiming to explore the historical summer home, but it's also the gateway to Lower Eagle Falls.
Once you reach Vikingsholm, it’s a quick quarter-mile walk to the trailhead that leads to the falls. As you follow the narrow, winding path along Eagle Creek, you'll come across a footbridge with a split trail. Continue along the creek for another 0.2 miles, and soon, you'll find yourself at the base of the falls. I highly recommend visiting early in the day, as the trail can become crowded later.
What Makes This Spot Special?
Lower Eagle Falls is best visited during the late spring and early summer months when the snowmelt is in full force. Here are some of the various vistas:
From the Emerald Bay Overlook, you get a distant yet complete view of the falls.
Up close at the base, you can feel the power of the water and capture stunning photos.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even a chance to explore the less-trodden paths and see the falls from different angles.
This waterfall is also a great spot for families, as the trail is relatively short, and the scenic journey down adds to the adventure.
Unlock Access to a Secret Swimming Hole Near Lower Eagle Falls
Here’s where the real adventure begins. For those of you craving a hidden spot to cool off during the hike, I’m revealing the exact location of a secret swimming hole I discovered near the falls. Paid Subscribers, click below to unlock detailed instructions and insider tips on how to access this hidden gem responsibly.