Overlooking the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm is a 38-room mansion and architectural gem nestled in El Dorado County, California. Built in 1929 and modeled after historic Scandinavian buildings, it serves as a living history museum open for public tours. With its dragon-carved rooftops, wildflower-covered sod roofs, and rich pioneer heritage, Vikingsholm is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian Revival architecture in the United States.

Recommended For

Architecture Aficionados: Explore detailed Scandinavian designs and American Craftsman features in a lakeside setting.

History Lovers: Learn about California’s early 20th-century elite and the story of pioneering women like Lora Josephine Knight.

Nature & Culture Explorers: Combine a scenic hike with cultural enrichment and historic ambiance.

What to Expect

  • Location: Emerald Bay State Park, El Dorado County, California
  • Setting: Nestled on the shore of Emerald Bay, surrounded by pines and granite cliffs
  • Experience: 30-minute guided tours of a historic mansion with preserved furnishings and handmade details
  • Access: 1-mile downhill trail hike or via private boat

History & Legacy

  • Early Ownership: Originally developed in the 1880s by Paul Kirby and later owned by William Henry Armstrong
  • Builder: Purchased by Lora Josephine Knight in 1928 for $250,000 as a summer estate
  • Architect: Designed by her nephew Lennart Palme; inspired by Swedish castles and Norwegian churches
  • Construction: Built in 1928–29 by 200 craftsmen using local materials and traditional methods—no nails or spikes
  • Later Ownership: Donated to California State Parks by Harvey West in 1953

Architectural Features

  • Style: A blend of American Craftsman and Scandinavian Revival architecture
  • Materials: Local granite, hand-hewn timber, and hand-forged metalwork
  • Decor: Carved dragon roof ridges, wildflower-covered sod roofs, and original Nordic furnishings
  • Interior: Nordic fireplaces, painted ceilings, wall art, and the famed hallway clock “Selma”

Public Tours & Access

  • Season: Daily tours available from late May to late September
  • Duration: Tours last approximately 30 minutes
  • Tickets: Purchase at the park’s Visitor Center—proceeds support restoration and education
  • Accessibility: Access via steep trail or private boat; limited access for those with mobility concerns—contact the park in advance

Events & Programming

  • Special Events: The Sierra State Parks Foundation hosts seasonal galas and cultural events at the mansion
  • Educational Use: Operates as a living history museum under the California State Parks and Sierra State Parks Foundation

Recognition & Preservation

  • National Register of Historic Places: Listed in 1996
  • Harvey West Unit: Part of Emerald Bay State Park and recognized as a National Natural Landmark

Visitor Tips

  • Plan for the Hike: The trail is steep and about 1 mile each way—wear comfortable shoes
  • Boat Access: Consider arriving by private boat for easier access
  • Best Views: Emerald Bay and the mansion are visible from both North and South Shores during the off-season

Contact & Map

Vikingsholm – Emerald Bay State Park
CA-89, Tahoma, CA 96142
Phone: 530-525-9530
vikingsholm.com

Map:


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