Rubicon Point Light

Rubicon Point Light is a wooden structure that rises from a rocky outcrop along Lake Tahoe's shoreline and serves as a navigation aid. The structure stands well above the water and offers expansive views across the lake and surrounding mountain terrain.

This navigation point was established in 1916 by the US Coast Guard in response to safety requests from the local community. The light helped guide commercial and private boaters safely across this popular mountain lake.

The lighthouse marks an important navigation point for boaters and takes its name from the nearby cove and surrounding rocky terrain. Visitors can experience how people once relied on this light to safely navigate the lake waters.

Visitors reach the light through a hiking trail that begins near a beach area and climbs via cut-stone steps to reach the structure. The route offers good exploration opportunities but requires some physical exertion and care on the stairs.

The light's operation relied on acetylene gas delivered by steamship and then transported overland by pack animals to this remote location. This labor-intensive supply method highlights how isolated the site was and the commitment needed to maintain this navigation aid.

Location: El Dorado County

Inception: 1916

Architectural style: rustic architecture

Made from material: wood

GPS coordinates: 38.99589,-120.09465

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04