By Tim Hauserman
One of the awesome things about Lake Tahoe is that even though I’ve lived here a million years, I can still find amazing places that I’ve never been to before. Such was the case this week, when I made my first short hike up to the Stateline Look Out. It sits above the North Shore casinos on the California/Nevada border and the view is absolutely stupendous. I was kicking myself for not getting there sooner.
Where to begin:
Take the first left on the Incline Village side of the North Shore casinos at Reservoir Road. In a short distance, turn right on Lakeview (where you will see a sign that says Lookout). Take a left at the first “Y”, then at the next “Y” your trail begins behind the gate on the left. It’s a residential area with just a few parking spaces near the trailhead, so try to go on a weekday. You could also park at the The Biltmore and walk up the road, which would add a pleasant mile to the hike.
The route heads uphill moderately steeply on an old paved road. In about a half mile the grade moderates where a paved narrow trail heads off to your left. Several interpretative panels provide interesting information about the lake, but the views from this trail are so stunning you might not want to take your eyes away from the lake.
The ridgetop location provides two distinct views of Lake Tahoe within a short distance. First, you get a panoramic view to the east of the lake, Incline Village and the casinos, and then just a bit further, you are looking west at the shoreline of Kings Beach and Tahoe Vista. As the path traverses around the ridgetop you pass several benches before a quick climb brings you to the rock walled patio area where the actual fire lookout once stood. After you’ve had your fill, follow the path back to the road and retrace your steps back to the car.
In just an hour or less this short hike gives you a chance to stretch out your legs and discover one of the best views of the lake you will find anywhere.
Thanks to my friend Nina for most of these photos. Check out her images at Photos by Nina-Photography. ninaphototahoe.com
THINK OF ME, LYNN RICHARDSON, FOR ALL OF YOUR LAKE TAHOE AND TRUCKEE REAL ESTATE NEEDS!
YOUR FRIEND IN HIGH PLACES 
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