Spooner Lake is a smaller, higher alpine lake within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, offering flat-water kayaking, exceptional trout fishing, and trails connecting to the famous Flume Trail. The surrounding meadows burst with wildflowers in spring and the aspen groves turn golden in October.
Spooner Lake sits within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet in the Carson Range, accessed from the junction of US-50 and NV-28 roughly 40 miles southwest of Reno. Unlike the Lake Tahoe beachfronts further north and south, Spooner is a compact high-alpine lake roughly half a mile in diameter, surrounded by open meadows, aspen groves, and conifer forest rather than a developed shoreline. The day-use area at the lake's eastern edge provides the primary access point and serves as the trailhead staging area for the park's extensive trail network.
The shoreline is predominantly grassy meadow margin and fine gravel rather than sand, with shallow, clear water that warms modestly faster than Lake Tahoe proper. Swimming is technically permitted but the absence of a defined sandy beach and the limited depth make it a secondary activity compared to kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The lake's primary draw is its role as trailhead for the Flume Trail, one of the most celebrated hiking and mountain biking routes in the Sierra Nevada, which climbs from Spooner toward dramatic ridgeline views above the Lake Tahoe basin.
Trophy fishing is a significant draw at Spooner Lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, and shore fishing from the gravel perimeter is productive in spring and fall when trout are most active near the surface. A valid Nevada fishing license is required for anglers aged 12 and older.
The surrounding meadows attract mule deer, osprey, and occasional bald eagles, making wildlife watching a reliable part of any visit. In October, the aspen groves surrounding the lake display brilliant gold foliage that draws photographers from across the region. Non-motorized watercraft can be launched from the shore, though no rentals are available on site. The day-use fee is covered by the Nevada State Parks Annual Passport.
Amenities
- boat launch
- picnic areas
- restrooms
- fishing (permit required)
- trails
Good to know
- Best for
- fishing, wildlife-watchers, photographers, families, couples
Highlights
- Trailhead for the legendary Flume Trail, one of the premier mountain bike and hiking routes in the Sierra Nevada
- Trophy rainbow and brown trout fishing in a stocked high-alpine lake at 7,000 feet
- Spectacular October aspen foliage surrounding the lake and meadows
- Wildlife-rich setting with mule deer, osprey, and occasional bald eagles in the meadows
- Peaceful high-elevation atmosphere far quieter than the main Lake Tahoe beaches
Tips for visiting
- Purchase a Nevada fishing license before arriving — enforcement is regular and licenses are not sold at the trailhead
- Plan for the Flume Trail hike to take 4–6 hours; the lake perimeter itself can be walked in under an hour
- The day-use vehicle fee is waived for holders of the Nevada State Parks Annual Passport
- Early mornings in July and August offer the best trout fishing before midday wind picks up on the lake surface
- Bring warm layers even in summer — temperatures at 7,000 feet can drop sharply in the afternoon
- Kayaks and canoes must be brought from home; no rentals are available at Spooner Lake
When to visit
Late May through early October is the primary visitor season, with the road open through the snow-free months. October offers spectacular aspen foliage with far fewer visitors than the summer peak; peak fishing season runs spring and fall.
Accessibility
The day-use area parking lot connects to the lake perimeter via a relatively level gravel path. The trail around the lake is unpaved with uneven sections that may be challenging for standard wheelchairs. The Flume Trail involves significant elevation gain and is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility. Restrooms in the day-use area include an accessible facility.
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming allowed at Spooner Lake?
Swimming is permitted at Spooner Lake, though the shoreline lacks a defined sand beach. The water is clear and the shallow margins warm to tolerable temperatures in summer, but most visitors focus on paddling and fishing rather than swimming.
Do anglers need a fishing license at Spooner Lake?
Yes. A valid Nevada fishing license is required for all anglers aged 12 and older. Licenses can be purchased online through the Nevada Department of Wildlife or at sporting goods retailers in the Reno area.
What is the Flume Trail and how does it start from Spooner Lake?
The Flume Trail follows the route of a 19th-century logging flume along a dramatic ridgeline with sweeping views above Lake Tahoe. It begins at the Spooner Lake trailhead with a significant climb from the day-use area and is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers.
Is there a fee to enter Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park at Spooner Lake?
A day-use vehicle fee applies. The Nevada State Parks Annual Passport covers entry at Spooner Lake and all other Nevada state parks for the full calendar year.
Are kayak or canoe rentals available at Spooner Lake?
Kayak and canoe rentals are not available at Spooner Lake. Visitors who wish to paddle must bring their own non-motorized watercraft, which can be launched directly from the gravel shoreline.