Discovering Hidden Beach: A Family-Friendly Adventure on Lake Tahoe’s North East Shore

This past weekend, our family (two dogs included) set out to explore a gem in Lake Tahoe: Hidden Beach. Located just one mile south of Incline Village, Nevada, Hidden Beach is a secluded spot that offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, tranquility, and outdoor fun. If you're looking for a place to escape the crowds, soak up the sun, and enjoy a day by the lake, we highly recommend checking it out.

Getting There
From Reno, NV, we took the 431 Mount Rose Highway to reach the Tahoe East Shore Trail. You can also take Highway 28 North if you’re coming from the South Lake Tahoe area. Be mindful that parking can be a bit tricky, especially during peak summer months. There are both paid and free parking options available. The easiest way to access Hidden Beach is by parking at the paid lot at Tahoe East Shore Trail, which involves about a one-mile walk along the scenic path. Free parking is available further up the road, but you’ll need to be prepared for a longer walk. Our tip? Get there early or arrive mid-day to snag a spot as the morning visitors start to leave.

Note: If you park in the paid lot, be sure to pay the fee. We’ve seen parking enforcement in action, and the fines aren't worth it!

Two Trails to Choose From
There are two ways to reach Hidden Beach. The first is a paved walking path from the parking lot, which is the easiest option. The second, more rigorous trail, starts behind Tunnel Creek Café. Follow the Monkey Rock trail signs, and once you’re on the trail, it’s about ¾ of a mile until you reach a sign for Hidden Beach. From there, it’s another ¼ mile down to the water. We took this trail, and our dogs loved being surrounded by nature.

Whichever path you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, as there are no fountains available. Also, keep an eye out for bikers, including those on electric bikes—they can appear quickly!

Arriving at Hidden Beach
Once we arrived at Hidden Beach, we were delighted to find it almost empty. We headed to the right side, where there’s a convenient log to sit on and take in the view. For the more adventurous, you can climb through the rocks to discover smaller, private beaches. Our dogs enjoyed splashing in the water, meeting other friendly pups, and lounging in the sun.

We loved that the beach had plenty of space to spread out, making it a peaceful escape from the busier areas of Lake Tahoe. There are public bathrooms, and the area is open from 7 am until one hour past sunset.

A Few Tips for Your Visit
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water for you and your furry friends.
- Leave No Trace: Please pack out everything you bring, including food wrappers and cigarette butts. We always strive to leave the beach better than we found it.
- Respect the rules: Campfires are never allowed on Tahoe beaches, and feeding wildlife is discouraged. Be mindful and respectful of nature.
- Parking: As mentioned, be sure to pay for parking if you’re using the paid lot to avoid fines.

Plan Your Next Adventure
We highly recommend Hidden Beach to anyone looking for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a Lake Tahoe local or visiting from Reno, it’s a must-see spot.

Looking for more outdoor gear for your next Tahoe trip? Check out our shop at Tactical Choice Plus! We offer a range of camping essentials, tactical gear, and outdoor accessories to make your next adventure safe, comfortable, and stylish. Plus, when you subscribe to our newsletter, you’ll receive 20% off your first order and free shipping on orders over $75.

Ready to gear up? Visit us today at TacticalChoicePlus.com and make your next Lake Tahoe adventure unforgettable!