Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe
Active
10m - 12m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Weight limits apply: Maximum per-passenger weight is 250lbs. Maximum weight of all passengers combined must not exceed 500lbs.
Passenger weights must be accurately provided at time of booking. Groups reaching a combined weight of 500 lbs will be subject to a weight check upon arrival for their flight. Any individual weighing 300 lbs or more will not be permitted to fly per the limitations of the aircraft. Any cancellation of a planned flight due to weights exceeding the maximum allowable aircraft weight (individual or combined) will be charged at full price.
Showcasing beautiful Fallen Leaf lake, Cascade Lake, Taylor Creek, and Pope Beach, this tour heads to breathtaking Emerald Bay. Surrounded by granite cathedrals and fed by Eagle falls, the lake's only true bay is named for its emerald green waters.
Available options
Emerald Bay Tour
Duration: 10 minutes: Stated times are approximate and usually run longer than the stated time.
What's included
Noise reducing headsets
Live commentary on board
Helicopter tour of Emerald Bay
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Head to the Lake Tahoe Airport where parking is free in the upper lot. Enter the terminal building to find our office on the left inside the main lobby. After meeting your pilot, take part in a short safety briefing prior to heading out to the ramp to board your aircraft.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
141 reviews
5★
131
4★
2
3★
1
2★
2
1★
5
Tripadvisor
4.9
68 reviews
5★
65
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Maximum weight per person is 250 pounds (113kg)
Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required. Please call tour operator prior to flight to arrange this. A full refund will be given if disability cannot be accommodated.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Maximum combined passenger weight is 500lbs per flight and strictly enforced
Meeting point
Inside the main lobby of the Lake Tahoe Airport
Important notes
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.
About Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake straddling the border between California and Nevada. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain scenery, and year-round outdoor activities, it's a premier destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.
Top Attractions
Emerald Bay State Park
A stunning natural area known for its clear waters, granite cliffs, and the historic Vikingsholm mansion. The park offers hiking, picnicking, and scenic views.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (parking fee in summer)
Heavenly Mountain Resort
One of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities like mountain biking and gondola rides.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)
Tahoe City
A charming lakeside town with a historic downtown, shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities. It's a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy the lake.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, costs vary for activities
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
A premier ski resort offering exceptional skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities. It's known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.
Adventure
Full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)
D.L. Bliss State Park
A beautiful state park with sandy beaches, clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. It's a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (parking fee in summer)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tahoe Trout
A local delicacy, often grilled or pan-seared and served with lemon and herbs. The trout is known for its delicate flavor and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Dinner
Gluten-free, low-carb options available
Gourmet Pizza
Lake Tahoe is famous for its gourmet pizzas, often featuring local ingredients like wild mushrooms, fresh trout, and artisanal cheeses.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Craft Beer
The region is home to several craft breweries, offering a variety of local beers. Many restaurants and bars feature these brews on tap.
Drink
Gluten-free options available at some breweries
Sierra Nevada Wine
While not as famous as Napa or Sonoma, the Sierra Nevada region produces excellent wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Drink
Vegan and organic options available
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spas and wellness retreats
Scenic gondola rides
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to March)
Summer offers ideal weather for water activities, hiking, and sightseeing, while winter brings excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. Both seasons are popular for different reasons.
15-30°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter)
59-86°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lake Tahoe is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards and take precautions to stay safe.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when driving in winter conditions.
- • Carry a map and compass for hiking, as cell service can be spotty.
- • Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
Getting there
By air
- Reno-Tahoe International Airport • 50 miles (80 km) from South Lake Tahoe
- Sacramento International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe
By bus
South Lake Tahoe Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transportation, with routes connecting major towns and attractions. Services are frequent in summer and winter, but less so in shoulder seasons.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
South Lake Tahoe
Tahoe City
Incline Village
Truckee
Day trips
Virginia City
30 miles (48 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day
A historic mining town with a rich past, offering a glimpse into the Old West. Visit museums, shops, and saloons that hark back to the 19th century.
Yosemite National Park
120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Full day or overnight
One of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. A must-visit for nature lovers.
Reno, Nevada
40 miles (64 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day
A vibrant city known for its casinos, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Explore museums, art galleries, and enjoy the nightlife.
Festivals
Tahoe City Winter Sports Park Festival • January
Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run • June
Tahoe Shakespeare Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Emerald Bay State Park for stunning views and hiking trails.
- Take a gondola ride at Heavenly Mountain Resort for breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
- Explore Tahoe City's historic downtown and waterfront activities.
- Try local specialties like Tahoe Trout and gourmet pizzas.
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
