The Best Photography Spots in Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas
Are you eloping in Lake Tahoe? or looking for an epic backdrop for a photoshoot? Use this location guide to inspire your big day! Or click the link below to follow three easy steps to make it happen.
THE SECRET SPOT
This spot is my favorite. I came across it during a hike. It’s secluded and it has some of the best views of Tahoe I have ever seen. The best part? It’s a little kept secret. I don’t share the location to keep it private for couples with who I get to work with. It also helps keep Tahoe wild :) This is the perfect match for you if you want a mix of forest and Tahoe views from above. It’s a 10-minute walk and perfect for a couples shoot or an elopement of 2-10 people. Here’s a post from a couple who had their sunset photos taken at this location: The Secret Spot
EMERALD BAY OVERLOOK (Not at the State Park)
I stumbled across this spot during one of my scout days. The location pin is also shared after booking. If we’re not working together, fret not! Keep scrolling. I do share options publicly, and those are more well-known (and honestly super stunning as well). Anyway, it’s a short hike up to this spot (10 minutes or so). This is a great option for an engagement session or an intimate elopement.
Alpine Lakes Nearby
Enjoy the view with an easy approach. This is a good spot if you’re having a few guests join you, and you want an alpine lake backdrop near Lake Tahoe. No special permit is needed for this spot. We show up and make it happen! Below are some photos to inspire you. One couple’s elopement photos were even picked up By Junebug Weddings (the backdrop is that amazing)! It’s a short hike to these spots, so no sweating before your ceremony required ;)
LOGAN SHOAL’S VISTA POINT
This is perfect for a quick pit stop or an elopement with guests who can’t hike long distances. You park and walk to the ceremony location (reservations required). A special use permit will allow a group of 20 or less for your intimate wedding. This is a great spot if you’re looking for easy access for you and your guests. Keep in mind it is a public overlook. Here’s a blog post from a wedding that took place there: Logan Shoal’s Vista Point Elopement
Donner Lake
If you’re looking for the classic sierra scene, this is a must-see spot. You’ll be surrounded by forest, excellent granite features, and Donner Lake! You can pick your own adventure here. I personally had my five-year anniversary photoshoot here. Finish off with dessert at Little Truckee Ice Creamery! If it’s not too busy we can even snag a dock at the end or beginning of your photoshoot. Check out this Donner Lake Elopement for inspiration.
CAVE ROCK
If you’re looking for an overlook of Tahoe, without the hike, this might be the spot for you! It is a public area and can get busy, so I recommend a sunrise shoot for this spot. This is conveniently located in South Lake Tahoe. Browse this Vow Renewal for inspiration.
EMERALD BAY STATE PARK
There’s a reason why this spot is popular. It’s STUNNING. I’ve hiked all over Tahoe and the views and access you get at this spot is unique. It is the hub of a lot of Tahoe adventures, so you’ll see tourists, backpackers, climbers, etc. If you’re looking for an overlook of Tahoe, without the hike, this might be the spot for you! It is a public area and can get busy, so I recommend a sunrise shoot for this spot. This is conveniently located in South Lake Tahoe. A permit is required for this location. Email lssec@parks.ca.gov for more info. Here is a blog post to get you pumped for this spot: Emerald Bay Elopement
YOSEMITE
Ok. I’m cheating a bit here, but Yosemite is just a few hours away! Four to be exact and it’s a magical place. With countless of trails and accommodations, eloping here is a no-brainer. You can keep scrolling for more Tahoe spots. Check out this engagement session for more inspiration.
A special use permit is required. Make sure you apply at least 21 days in advance. I’d recommend 2-3 months before the big day. You can also schedule a ceremony at the Yosemite Community Church.
LAKESIDE + DOCK
Do you want an up-close view of Tahoe? Elope lakeside. There are tons of options for this. Reach out and we can chat about which one is the best for you :)
HOMEWOOD OVERLOOK
A quick and rewarding hike. This spot is public and we will bump into the occasional hiker but the photos will make it look like no one was around ;) Take a peek at this elopement for inspiration.
