This has to be one of Tahoe’s truest jewels! Thunderbird Lodge rests on a hill overlooking Tahoe’s East Shore from a lighthouse view that is one of a kind.  The property was built between 1936 and 1939 as a summer house for very wealthy and interesting man. This hunting lodge style architecture was planned with incredible detail and thought and with every modern convenience. The history, notoriety, and beauty of this property make it a unique experience for any guests arriving for a private party hosted here.  There is stillness, calm, and solitude without being too far from the active life Tahoe also offers! Choose to include the historic aspect through docent lead tours before or during the party or just let your quests wonder the intimate property that sits on a total of 6 acres.  The trails between the few stone buildings lead you to the next which may include a secret tunnel or two.  These trails are referred to as the “serpentine Dragon’s Tail,” and as you wind through, it is clear why.  One of the most interesting aspects about Thunderbird Lodge is that is it the docking space for the famous, historic wooden boat named after the lodge.  The Thunderbird may be rented for outings on the lake – what a great feature to add to your event!

One of my favorite spots on property is the Wishing Well Terrace; a quaint patio with a true wishing well to toss a penny into.  This space is surrounded by large boulders and overlooks the beauty of the lake.  Adjacent to this sweet space is a perfect grassy lawn that is ideal for medium sized events.  You will need to bring in all of your own rentals which makes it the perfect place to build exactly what you want when your main criteria are to capture the beauty of Lake Tahoe and have a very elegant event. The lawn and boarders are immaculate and maintain the mountain feel with the surrounding boulders, tree canopies, and stone features.

Thunderbird Lodge offers two indoor event options too. One is the Lighthouse which seats up to 90 guests with a breathtaking view of the lake through a full wall of glass windows.  You have the sense you are in a glass boat on the lake as you stand in the Lighthouse room. This building is a historic lighthouse and the building was constructed around it. The second indoor venue is the Main Lodge.  It is best suited for groups of 80 people or less and reminds you of a family lodge.  The exterior is all stone with artistically created ironwork by an Italian craftsman.  Inside the space is blond wood flooring, overhead wood railings, chandeliers with antique lamp shades, and two fireplaces (without outstanding wrought iron screens).  This room is comfortable and warm and would be a wonderful place to host your next event.

The masonry, special ironwork touches, the undisturbed granite boulders, and other nooks and crannies of this property beckon you to explore, imagine, and return. Thunderbird is truly a special place.

~ Vixen Catrina