Skunk Harbor
Carson City, Nevada
| Address: | NV-28, Carson City, NV 89703, USA |
| GPS: |
39°7'42.8"N 119°55'52.1"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Nevada |
| Trails/Routes: | 1.5 mi |
Lakes Trails Rocks Pet Friendly Restrooms Rivers Waterfalls Streams Glaciers Paintball Permitted Skateboarding
Hike
Skunk Harbor is a secluded, beautiful little cove on the quiet eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, tucked into the forest between Carson City and Incline Village, Nevada. Reached only on foot, this hidden gem rewards hikers with a small sandy beach, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a piece of Tahoe history — all far from the crowds of the lake's busier shores.
The hike begins from a gated forest-service road off State Route 28 (the Tahoe East Shore highway) and descends a couple of scenic miles through the trees to the water, with a few nice viewpoints along the way; some connecting mountain-bike trails can shorten the distance but make for a steeper climb. At the bottom sits the quiet harbor and its sandy beach, alongside a historic 1920s stone house — a lakeside summer retreat — that gives the cove its distinctive character and a marker explaining its past. Dogs are welcome on the trail.
Because the trail drops down to the lake, remember that the return trip is all uphill — budget energy and water for the climb out. The water is famously clear but cold, so swimming is refreshing but brisk. There are no services at the beach, so bring everything you need, and pack out all trash to keep this pristine spot beautiful.
Summer and early fall are the best seasons, when the beach is inviting and the road access is open. Arrive early on warm weekends, as parking along SR-28 is limited. For a quieter, more scenic taste of Lake Tahoe, Skunk Harbor is well worth the walk.
More Information
Lake Tahoe Beaches - Skunk Harbor
Secluded hike-to or boat-to beach on lake Tahoe
https://www.aboutlaketahoe.com/beaches/skunk_harbor.htmSkunk Harbor & Prey Meadows - Hidden East Shore Hike
Explore Skunk Harbor & Prey Meadows Lake Tahoe—easy forest walk, wildflowers in spring, secluded beach and stunning lake views.
https://laketahoetravel.com/listing/prey-meadowskunk-harbor/Skunk Harbor • Lake Tahoe Guide
Lake Tahoe's Skunk Harbor is a favorite destination for sunbathers and swimmers. It's a smaller yet beautiful beach area popular with boaters too.
https://www.tahoeactivities.com/skunk-harbor/Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Carson City, Nevada
- Head south on S Carson St toward W 2nd StPass by AutoZone (on the right in 1.9 mi)(3.0 mi)
- Turn right onto US-50 W (9.7 mi)
- Turn right onto NV-28 S (2.4 mi)
Park on highway turn off area, the trail starts right off the highway.
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