Access the bottom of Emerald Bay via the Vikingsholm Trail, a 1.8-mile out-and-back hike that starts from the top of Emerald Bay State Park. It’s a beautiful trail year-round, with great views of the bay from both the top and the shoreline. Since the hike starts right at Emerald Bay, parking can get crowded, especially mid-day and on weekends, so going earlier in the day definitely helps.

Once you reach the bottom, there’s plenty to explore, including Lower Eagle Falls, the Emerald Bay Pier, and the historic Vikingsholm Castle. You can also pick up the Rubicon Trail, an amazing lakeshore trail that takes you all the way to D.L. Bliss State Park. It’s a great area to wander around, relax by the water, and take in the views before heading back up.