VIKINGSHOLM TOUR
Discover the crown jewel of Lake Tahoe
Sierra State Parks Foundation guide staff offer public tours during the summer months. Experienced and knowledgeable guides conduct 30-minute tours of this amazing landmark. Proceeds fund the restoration and education efforts for Vikingsholm.
**Vikingsholm Tours and Emerald Bay are closed for the year. Operations resume in May 25, 2024.**
An era of gracious living
Vikingsholm Castle, noted for its outstanding architecture and scenic location, represents an era of gracious living and early environmental protection. Days at Vikingsholm were not filled with one thrilling event following another. Instead, each day blended into the next in the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight constructed Vikingsholm in the Scandinavian style because Emerald Bay reminded her of the fjords she visited on trips to that region. Mrs. Knight enjoyed entertaining and had a number of guests visiting during the summer months. Contrary to many stories, Mrs. Knight rarely used the Tea House on Fannette Island, which she also owned. Proceeds from the tours benefit the restoration and interpretation of this unique State and National Historic Landmark.
Anonymous visitor
“We had a great time and were very impressed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of the tour guide. It is nice to see things so well run. Thank you.”
Tour Information
Tour dates
Offered 7 days a week, May 25 - September 30, 2024
Tour hours
11 am – 4 pm
Tickets
$18 for adults
$15 students 6-17 years and with valid college ID/active duty military/seniors
Children 5 and under are free.
Purchase tickets at the Visitor Center just past Vikingsholm. The Visitor Center is open daily during the tour season from 10 am – 4:30 pm.
How to get there
Access to Vikingsholm is via a STEEP one-mile trail from the parking lot located off of Highway 89 or a less steep 1.5 mile trail that leaves from the Eagle Point Campground campfire center. Please make sure you are physically able to make the climb back up the hill. If you need ADA assistance, see below under ADA Accessibility. Dogs are not allowed in the Vikingsholm area, including the trails leading into Emerald Bay.
Vikingsholm by boat
Skip the hike and traffic hassles! The Sierra State Parks Foundation is partnering with Action Water Sports and Cruise Tahoe to offer tour packages to the historic Vikingsholm Castle by water. Cruise the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Emerald Bay. Then, tour the magnificent Vikingsholm Castle, a must-do on your Lake Tahoe adventure list.
ADA Accessibility
Available June-September
Call California State Parks at (530) 525-3384 or email Emerald.BayADA@parks.ca.gov to inquire about eligibility and availability.
Special events
We host several fundraising events during the summer months where guests have the exclusive experience of driving into Emerald Bay. Visit our event page for more details. In addition, we offer a private experience, Vikingsholm Tour & Tastings, where four may drive down, privately tour the castle, and enjoy a twilight tastings reception for a donation of $1200. Two week notice required. Email info@sierrastateparks.org for inquiry and availability.
