Jaw-dropping scenery, sprawling beaches, and easy lake access… what more could you want for a great place to start your paddling day off on Lake Tahoe? Meeks Bay Resort offers you that and more! Named after John Meeks, it’s situated between arguably two of the most beautiful state parks in California. This week’s Lake Tahoe Water Trail Trailhead spotlight is about Meeks Bay.

Paddling Meeks Bay

With an assortment of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and of course paddling along with lakeside campgrounds and cabins to stay at, you can literally spend your entire vacation within Meeks Bay. Be sure to set aside time to explore the waters via a kayak or SUP. The waters provide a mix of blues and greens within the protected bay. But, as you venture further away, it quickly drops off to some of the lake’s deepest levels at over 1,645 ft. deep!

Two Out-And-Back Day Trip Paddles

Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

For those that want to experience a quick paddle, look no further than the less than 1 mile cruise to Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park. From here, you’ll get an up close & personal look at perfect specimens of the tallest pine trees in the world: Sugar Pines. As John Muir once called them, these “kings of the conifers” can grow up to 200 feet tall & have the longest cones of ANY evergreen. And don’t forget to take a tour of the Ehrman Mansion. Built in 1902, it’s a shining example of what Lake Tahoe summer estates were like in that era & is not to be missed.

D.L. Bliss State Park

Approximately three miles south is what many visitors feel is one of the most beautiful California State Parks, not just in the Golden State but possibly in the country. Within its confines, you’ll find fantastic hiking opportunities as well as Rubicon Point. From the scenic overlook, you’ll experience a brilliant panorama of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, Lake Tahoe & the distant Nevada shore. And don’t forget to check out the iconic Rubicon Point Lighthouse. It’s the highest elevation lighthouse in the United States.

For a full write-up, head over to our day trips section and download the .pdf for West Shore Day Trips. Or better yet, pick up a copy of our waterproof Lake Tahoe Water Trail Map & Access Guide.

Be a Tahoe Keeper

Before you launch – you must be a Tahoe Keeper and clean, drain and dry all of your gear to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Watch this video on How to Protect Lake Tahoe and Your Paddle Gear and follow the steps.  Better yet – Rent a paddle board or kayak or take a guided eco-paddle tour from a Tahoe paddle shop.

Heads UP! Be sure to wear a life jacket!