The Lake Tahoe Water Trail (LTWT) is a paddling route through paradise! The LTWT provides an absolutely unique opportunity for visitors to experience Lake Tahoe...from the water. With over 72 miles of shoreline to explore, paddling the LTWT is an experience that can be done in one grand circumnavigation over several days, or in day trip segments to suit any paddler's schedule. Gliding through its world-famous crystalline waters, paddlers experience the rich treasures of Lake Tahoe, like calm mirror-flat mornings, 360 degree vistas of snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, historic sites such as the Thunderbird Lodge, Vikingsholm and Ehrman Mansion, and access to beautiful sandy beaches.

Interested in a diverse experience? The lake is ringed with fantastic eateries, historic sites and museums, shopping districts and art galleries, and nature trails. Plan a multi-day overnight trip between lodging facilities or campgrounds, or head out for a shorter day paddle from over 40 public launch sites. Highway quality access allows visitors to plan customized itineraries to suit their abilities and tastes. Paddling the LTWT affords visitors the opportunity to leave their cars, and traffic, behind and see the lake at a slower and more enriching pace.

Note: The Lodge to Lodge Network provides a way for travelers to plan a multi-day trip and stay at lodges and motels along the Lake Tahoe Water Trail.

The LTWT can be accessed from public beaches and boat ramps around the lake. Public boat launches and beaches are all highlighted on the Lake Tahoe Water Trail printed map, available at locations around the lake or by mail at www.adventuremaps.net or 1-800-849-6589.

Some recommended locations for easy access and parking:

NORTH SHORE: Tahoe Vista Boat Launch Facility, Tahoe Vista - Public launch facility, restrooms, parking, kayak rentals; Patton Landing Public Beach and Cartop Launch, Carnelian Bay - Public launch facility, restrooms, parking, kayak rentals, picnic facilities; Lake Forest Boat Ramp, Tahoe City - Public launch facility, parking, restrooms

EAST SHORE: Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, Sand Harbor - Public launch facility, restrooms, parking, kayak rentals, picnic facilities; Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, Cave Rock - Public launch facility, restrooms, parking, picnic facilities

SOUTH SHORE: Zephyr Cover Resort - Public launch facility, restrooms, restaurant, food and supplies, campground and lodging, kayak rentals; El Dorado Beach and Boat Launch, South Lake Tahoe - Public launch facility, restrooms, parking, kayak rentals, picnic facilities; USFS Baldwin Beach, South Lake Tahoe - Public beach, restrooms, parking, kayak rentals, picnic facilities. Best kayak and canoe access to Emerald Bay.

WEST SHORE: DL Bliss State Park - Public beach, campground, restrooms, parking, trails, picnic facilities; Kaspian Picnic Area - public public beach, restrooms, picnic facilities, public pier, campground across the street.

Most of the publicly owned and operated launch facilities around Lake Tahoe are ADA accessible as are the private businesses catering to visitors.

Lake Tahoe requires a special level of care and stewardship to ensure its natural wonders and character are preserved for future generations. In addition to practicing principles of "Leave No Trace," all boaters on Lake Tahoe must pay vigilant attention to preventing the introduction of aquatic invasive species. Stringent regulations are in place requiring boaters to have vessels inspected for Quagga Mussels and other aquatic invasive species that can permanently destroy the lake.

Please adhere to these requirements. it only takes one person to spoil it all..don't be the one. For more information please visit www.TahoeKeepers.org.

Pets and paddling don't generally mix, although we have seen a few seaworthy canines perched on the decks of kayaks or sitting comfortably in an open hatch. For pet owners that won't travel without their furry companions, it is possible to plan an adventure on the Lake Tahoe Water Trail or arrange for pet care.