Hellman-Ehrman Mansion: A Tahoe Summer Estate
Step back in time at Lake Tahoe's Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, a beautifully preserved estate offering a glimpse into the past.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Tahoe, the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion offers a captivating journey back in time to the early 1900s. This grand summer estate, also known as Pine Lodge, was built in 1903 for Isaias W. Hellman, a prominent San Francisco banker, and his family. Designed by architect Walter Danforth Bliss, the mansion showcases a rustic yet elegant style, constructed largely from local materials such as granite from Meeks Bay and lumber from Hobart Mills. The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion served as a summer retreat for the Hellman-Ehrman family for many years. Guests enjoyed various activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, tennis, and picnics. The estate included a main house, a caretaker's cottage, a children's house, maids' quarters, and boathouses. The family owned two boats, the Comet and the Cherokee. Inside the mansion, visitors can admire the redwood paneling in the dining room, the overstuffed furniture in the living room, and the modern amenities for its time, such as electric lights and indoor plumbing. In 1965, the State of California acquired the house and 1,975 acres of the estate. Today, the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion, explore the grounds, and learn about the history of the estate and the Hellman-Ehrman family. The mansion is open for tours from late May through September. The surrounding Sugar Pine Point State Park offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.
Local tips
- Tours are available from late May through September, but check the schedule as tour times vary.
- Purchase tour tickets at the Visitor Center upon arrival.
- Parking is available for a fee, and the lots can fill up quickly during peak season, so arrive early.
- Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds after your tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the estate and exploring the surrounding park.
A brief summary to Hellman-Ehrman Mansion
- Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, Tahoma, CA, 96142, US
- +1530-525-7982
Getting There
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Driving
From Tahoe City, drive south on Highway 89 for about 10 miles. The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion is located within Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park on the west side of the highway. Look for signs for the park entrance. Once inside the park, follow the road to the day-use area near the lake. Parking is available for $10 per vehicle. Parking can fill up quickly during peak season.
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Public Transport
From South Lake Tahoe, take the Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) bus towards Tahoma. The ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Get off at the Tahoma stop and walk about a mile to the mansion. Follow the road signs towards Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, where the mansion is located. Check the TART schedule for current fares and times.
