Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe’s most visited and photographed destinations. But in peak season, it’s also one of the hardest to reach. In summer 2024, CHP issued more than 1,200 parking citations and towed over 300 vehicles along Highway 89. With limited legal parking, full enforcement, and barriers blocking unsafe areas, reaching Emerald Bay is not a walk in the park.

But this summer, there’s a better way. Introducing the Emerald Bay Shuttle: the stress-free, eco-friendly way to visit one of California’s most impressive natural wonders.

Getting to Emerald Bay Just Got Easier

This summer, the Tahoe Fund and Keep Tahoe Blue are proud to fund and launch the Emerald Bay Shuttle alongside a project team of transportation planning and implementation experts, local government officials, agencies, and organizations. The new transportation pilot program started on July 15 and runs through October 15, connecting South Lake Tahoe (pickups at Camp Richardson and the South Tahoe Y) and the West Shore (Sugar Pine Point pickup) to Emerald Bay.

The shuttle stops are easily accessible from public transportation. Free buses and microtransit services offered by the Tahoe Transportation District (TTD), South Shore Transportation Management Association (SSTMA), and Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) offer a way to extend your trip using lake-friendly transportation. Take advantage to save yourself stress, reduce pollution, and protect the Lake while enjoying one of the most photographed locations in the Sierra.

Shuttle Service Info:

• Operates daily through October 15
• Pickup locations: Camp Richardson, Sugar Pine Point, and South Tahoe Y Transit Center (Fri-Sun only)
• Easily accessible by bike along the West Shore and South Lake on designated bike paths. The shuttles are equipped with bike racks.
• Drops you at the doorstep of Emerald Bay without the stress of parking.
• Roundtrip cost is $10 for adults, and $5 for kids (13 and younger).

Want to plan your ride now? Visit emeraldbayshuttle.org.

Why It Matters: Less Traffic, Bluer Lake Tahoe

Every car trip to Emerald Bay contributes to the pollution threatening Lake Tahoe’s clarity. Here’s how:

• Erosion of pavement and shoulders from cars loosens fine particles that flow downhill and into the Lake, reducing water clarity.
• Oil from vehicle engines and drivetrains accumulates on roads and seeps into the environment.
• Idling traffic clogs narrow roads and sends emissions into the Tahoe’s air and watershed.
• Did you know? Scientific research is beginning to show that tire wear may generate microplastic debris that flows into streams and rivers and ends up in the Lake.

The Emerald Bay Shuttle is a change that has a significant impact: fewer cars on the road, fewer pollutants in the air and water, and a better experience for everyone.

Don’t Take Our Word for It: Hear from Real Visitors

When one of Keep Tahoe Blue’s interns rode the Emerald Bay Shuttle earlier this summer, the experience was simple, smooth, and efficient. A clear contrast to the traffic and full lots that have defined summers past. And they weren’t the only ones who noticed.

Linda, visiting from Mountain View, shared how her group’s first attempt to reach Emerald Bay ended in frustration:

“We tried coming here yesterday and there was no parking available. So, I did a ‘ChatGPT,’ and it mentioned this shuttle. And we thought, ‘Oh my God, that’s like perfect!’ So, we made reservations and here we are.”

Susan, from Orange County, had a similar experience navigating peak holiday crowds:

“The first few days here trying to find parking has been madness. And so this shuttle — it was God sent.”

These are just a few of the stories we’ve heard from riders who used the shuttle to bypass congestion, avoid the risk of having a vehicle towed, and enjoy their time at Emerald Bay. For many, it turned what could have been a missed opportunity into the highlight of their trip.

How You Make a Difference

This is a pilot program. That means every rider counts and makes a difference in the preservation of Lake Tahoe and helps expand the program in the future. If you want to make a difference, here’s how:

• Ride the shuttle – over and over. Book your roundtrip tickets today.
• Consider alternative transportation solutions when visiting Lake Tahoe.

Help us spread the word by riding the Emerald Bay Shuttle, and tell a friend to do the same. By making the Emerald Bay Shuttle pilot program a success, we can bring innovative, clean transportation options to more areas around the Tahoe Basin. It’s one small effort for you, and one big win for the Lake.