Van Sickle Bi-State Park is the South Shore's backyard trail park and its best free surprise. It is a rare park managed jointly by two states, California and Nevada, and it begins a few minutes' walk from Heavenly Village and the Stateline casinos. Within a few hundred yards of the entrance, the hotels disappear behind pine forest, and the trails climb gently through granite outcrops and meadows to lookouts over the South Shore and the lake. The trails are easy to moderate. Short loops near the entrance work for families and anyone looking for a quick walk before dinner, and the Rim Trail Connector climbs steadily for several miles to meet the Tahoe Rim Trail, which serious hikers can follow along the ridge toward Kingsbury Grade or into the high country. There is no entry fee. In season (May 1 through October 31), vehicles can drive into the park and park near the trailheads. The park closes to vehicles for the winter on November 2, but pedestrians are welcome year-round from sunrise to sunset, and in snowy months the lower trails make a quiet snowshoe close to town. Construction work has begun in the park, so check the Nevada State Parks page for trail and area closures before you go. Stage One fire restrictions apply, gathering firewood is prohibited, drones are not allowed, and dogs must be on a leash of six feet or less. The appeal is how close it is: guests at Stateline hotels can be on a forest trail with a lake view within minutes, without a car. It suits families, couples, anyone staying at Stateline or Heavenly Village, and hikers who want a free warm-up for the Tahoe Rim Trail.
The park takes its name from the Van Sickle family, whose land along the state line became the park, and its bi-state status means the California Tahoe Conservancy and Nevada State Parks share management. That cooperation shows in the trail system, which crosses the state line without much fanfare. The lower trails wind among granite boulders and pines, and the views open up as you climb, looking back over the South Shore and the lake.
How to do it well
If you are staying at Stateline or Heavenly Village, walk in from Heavenly Village Way rather than driving. Take the short lower loops for a family outing, or follow the Rim Trail Connector for a longer climb with better views. Start early on summer days, since there is little shade higher up, and carry water. From November, enter on foot and bring traction devices if snow has fallen. Check the Nevada State Parks page for construction-area maps and any trail changes.
Practicals and fit
Entrance off Heavenly Village Way, Stateline/South Lake Tahoe. Free entry; vehicles allowed May 1 through October 31, pedestrians year-round, sunrise to sunset. Plan an hour for a short loop or a half day for the Rim Trail connection. Best for families, couples, Stateline guests and hikers.
What to expect
The experience
A free trail park on the California-Nevada line behind Heavenly Village, with easy loops through pines and granite, lake lookouts, and a connector trail to the Tahoe Rim Trail.
Best time
Summer and fall mornings; late afternoon for warm light over the lake. Pedestrian access year-round.
How long
One hour for a short loop; three to four hours to reach the Rim Trail and return.
Tips
Walk in from Heavenly Village. Vehicles are allowed only May 1 through October 31. Check for construction closures. Dogs on six-foot leashes; no drones.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A free forest walk with lake views, minutes from the Stateline casinos.
- Families
- Easy lower loops close to town, with boulders for kids to explore.
- Couples
- A golden-hour walk to a lake lookout before dinner in Heavenly Village.
- Pair with
- The Heavenly Gondola next door, or an evening in Heavenly Village.
- Time needed
- One to four hours.
Good questions
Is Van Sickle Bi-State Park free?+
Yes. There is no entry fee, and the park is jointly managed by California and Nevada.
Can I drive into the park?+
From May 1 through October 31. The park closes to vehicles for winter on November 2, but pedestrians are welcome year-round from sunrise to sunset.
How do I get there from Heavenly Village?+
It is a short walk. The entrance is off Heavenly Village Way, just behind the village and the Stateline casinos.
Does it connect to the Tahoe Rim Trail?+
Yes. The Rim Trail Connector climbs several miles from the park to meet the Tahoe Rim Trail on the ridge above.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes, on a leash of six feet or less.
