Because of Tahoe’s 300+ days of sunshine, kayaking can be a year-round activity. But, as spring and summer arrive and the days get longer, there’s nothing like a warm sunny day out on the water. Whether you have your own double seater for you and your favorite kayaking buddy or rent a kayak for a day on the lake, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous turquoise water and a unique viewpoint to take in the scenery. Did you know there are kayaking trails all along the shores of Lake Tahoe including 20 “trailheads” to launch your boat? Read on to find out where to kayak in North Lake Tahoe and how to get outfitted for a day on the lake.
West Shore Kayak Trails
Kayaking West Shore Tahoe, Photo by Stephanie Sparling[/caption]
The West Shore of Lake Tahoe is home to three kayak launch sites. Once you’re ready for your day on the lake, launch from Kaspian Campground, Meeks Bay or D.L. Bliss State Park. The Kaspian launch site is the perfect starting point for a two-sport day. After an afternoon of kayaking, secure your boat and take the 1-mile roundtrip hike to Eagle Rock for sweeping views of Lake Tahoe.
Another option is to launch from Meeks Bay and head north on your paddle. If you’re ready for a break as you paddle pass Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, you can land your boat on the beautiful sandy beach for a picnic or to explore the Erman Mansion and the interpretive trails.
If you launch from D.L. Bliss State Park in the morning (the parking lot is often full by mid-morning), you can paddle in the morning sun and then return to enjoy time swimming or hiking or even spend the night in their campground.
Looking for more kayak trails in North Lake Tahoe? Explore the Lake Tahoe Water Trail website for more trip ideas. They offer maps for every part of the lake including day trips from Tahoe City, the North Shore’s six launch sites from Carnelian Bay to Kings Beach, and 15.9 miles of turquoise “trails” launching from Sand Harbor.
Kayak Rentals on the West Shore
Eagle Rock, Photo by Elliot Gilfix[/caption]
With rentals available throughout the Tahoe area, you’ll have an easy time getting out on the water with all the gear you need for a fun-filled day.
South of Tahoma, Meeks Bay Resort offers single and double kayak rentals. If you’re headed out to explore the West Shore’s kayak trails and need the gear to do it, this is an ideal location to rent a boat to explore the lake. From a quick 1-mile paddle to Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park to a longer 3-mile journey to D.L. Bliss State Park, Meeks Bay is the perfect basecamp.
Looking for something extra unique? Clearly Tahoe offers clear kayak rentals for a DIY adventure where you’ll be taking in the views around you as well as under your feet. Or, sign up for one of their guided tours, including their amazing nighttime LED kayak experience!
