Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

Ed Z'Berger Sugar Pine Point State Park was named in honor of a former assemblyman who invested time and energy into conservation and outdoor recreation in the Lake Tahoe area. Located on the quiet western side of the lake, with 2 miles of shoreline, the park is nestled among the forested mountains of the Sierra Nevada Range. General Creek runs through the center of the park, beginning in the Desolation Wilderness and emptying into Lake Tahoe. Because of its altitude, the park is mostly sub-alpine meadow and dense forest. 

The centerpiece of the park is the Ehrman Mansion and its grounds. Built in the 1920s as a summer getaway, it was originally named Pine Lodge. Tours of the mansion are available for humans, and pups can accompany their less-hairy pals on the grounds surrounding the buildings. There are lots to see and sniff, including squirrels and chipmunks foraging in the grass and among the trees. The sloping, shady lawn provides many pawrfect spots for picnics and general lolling about.

Doggo-approved paved trails wend their way along the lakefront and through a portion of the forest. The Lakefront Interpretive Trail is about a quarter mile long and flat, and leads from the North Boathouse to the South Boathouse as it follows the shoreline. The Rod Beaudry Trail is .5 miles of forest with interpretive markers that arises near the park office and Nature Center and travels to the parking lot on Highway 89. 

The .5-mile long Lakeshore Trail has some interesting ups and downs, begins at the westernmost parking lot and features restrooms. The multi-use West Shore Bike Trail begins in Truckee and travels about a mile through the park, and welcomes walkers. Please keep Fido's leash secure on this trail to avoid mishaps with cyclists.

Whether you and your fur-pup plan to use the park for a day hike (parking for day use is $5 off-season and $10 at peak) or opt for a stay at the dog-friendly campground, this is a great place for a quiet, laid-back retreat you'll both enjoy!