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Sand Harbor Nature Trail

Washoe County, Nevada

4.5/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

0.54 miles

Elevation Gain

33 ft

Description

Added by Sonja Saxe

Located on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor Nature Trail is the perfect location to capture the lake's famous, fiery sunsets. The rocks that line the shoreline create a unique foreground for photographs and are perfectly reflected in the calm water.

While Sand Harbor Park is a popular summer destination, the sunsets from this spot are breathtaking year round and you will have less company in the winter. The park is located right off of Highway 28 and has an admission fee of $7. There is a parking lot that fills up quickly in the summer, so arrive early during the warmer seasons in order to get a spot on time.

Once parked head towards the shoreline, take in the beautiful views, and scope out the best vantage point for your sunset shots. The rocks along the shoreline make for an interesting foreground and are very fun to play around with. As the sun sets the light seems to change almost every second and puts on quite a show. Be prepared to stay well after the sun dips below the horizon because this is when the sky glows pink!

After darkness has set in and you're satisfied with your photos you can head back to your lodging and call it a night. However, I would recommend driving down to South Lake Tahoe to stop by the Lucky Beaver for one of the best burgers in town!

One final tip: If you are heading to Sand Harbor during July or August make sure to check the Shakespeare Festival schedule ahead of time because there is a theater located in the park and the shows can fill it up!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Bathrooms
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic
ADA Accessible

Sand Harbor Nature Trail Reviews

Located on the northeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor is the perfect location to capture the lake's famous, fiery sunsets. The rocks that line the shoreline create a unique foreground for photographs and the calm water perfectly reflects them.

Lake Tahoe is absolutely beautiful. However, in the winter many of the pull offs and hikes are closed because of snow. Sand Harbor was one of the few stops still open, although it still required a $7/car fee. This would be very worth it in the summer when there is more to do. I will return!

Honestly you have to do this more than once. This place is a gold mine for photographers and adventure seekers alike. Bring good shoes with traction if you plan on exploring the rocks, which is a never ending maze of narrow spaces and steep boulders. So much fun. So many good photos, you'll be back.

Magical place and magical photos! Beautiful adventure!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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