Historic Vikingsholm Castle Tour

Historic Vikingsholm Castle Tour

Vikingsholm is offering public tours during the summer months. Experienced and knowledgeable guides conduct 30-minute tours. Proceeds fund the restoration and education efforts for Vikingsholm.

Explore Lake Tahoe’s Vikingsholm Castle

Vikingsholm Castle noted for its outstanding architecture and scenic location represents an era of gracious living. 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 Teahouse on Fanette Island, which she also owned. Vikingsholm is a California and National Historic Landmark.

“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 DATES: Offered 7 days a week, June 11 – SEPTEMBER 30, 2022

TOUR HOURS: Tours begin every 30 minutes from 10:30 am – 4 pm

TICKETS:
$15 for adults
$12 students 7-17 years and with valid college ID/active duty/seniors
FREE: Children under 7 years

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 1/2 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, then see section ADA Accessibilty.

Note: Dogs are not allowed in the Vikingsholm area, including the trails leading into Emerald Bay. The water fountain is also currently closed due to COVID guidelines. Please plan accordingly.

VIKINGSHOLM BY BOAT!: June 11 – SEPT 30

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. Skip the hike down and go by boat!

ADA ACCESSIBILITY:
Call California State Parks at 530 525 9543 or email Emerald.BayADA@parks.ca.gov to inquire about eligibility and availability.

SPECIAL EVENTS:
The Sierra State Parks Foundation hosts several fundraising events during the summer months where guests can drive into Emerald Bay. Visit our event page for more details. In addition, The Foundation offers 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. Email info@sierrastateparks.org for inquiry and availability.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY:
Call California State Parks at 530-525-3384 or email Emerald.BayADA@parks.ca.gov to inquire about eligibility and availability.

VIKINGSHOLM SCHOOL GROUP TOURS:
School group tours can be arranged by calling the Sierra State Parks Foundation office at 530-583-9911.

HELP US PRESERVE VIKINGSHOLM