PRESERVING THE PAST
The Tallac Historic Site consists of three estates built between 1894 and 1923. Once private summer homes, the properties were bought by the USDA Forest Service between 1965-1972. The goal was to increase public access to Lake Tahoe. However, the estates themselves become the focal point, as historians championed their preservation. After a decade of restoration, the estates were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
Today, each estate offers something different and exciting for visitors to do and see. The Pope and Baldwin Estates are co-manged by the Great Basin Institute and USDA Forest Service, while the Heller Estate is operated by Valhalla Tahoe. Start your journey at the Tallac Museum for information, maps and program schedules!
CONTACT
Tallac Museum
+1 530-541-5227
Addresss
1 Heritage WaySouth Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
tallac@gbininstitute.org
HOURS OF OPERATION
CLOSED FOR WINTER
THE ESTATES WILL REOPEN MAY 2025
The Tallac Historic Site buildings and all visitor amenities are now closed for the season. Trails, gardens and grounds remain accessible for year-round recreation. Visitors can may access the site on foot.
Stay in the loop!
INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Step into history with a guided tour of the grounds and buildings at the Pope and Baldwin Estates. Tours are led by seasoned volunteers who don period-appropriate attire, bringing history to life. All tour and program fees directly support the continued preservation of the estates. Tours and programs are offered seasonally, May through October.

Tour the former private residence for some of San Francisco’s affluent. Noted as one of the oldest standing structures in the Tahoe Basin, the Pope has a rich past. Built in 1894, the Pope House is a whopping 130 years old!

Have you ever wondered what is was like to work and live at Lake Tahoe during the 1920’s? The Grand Estates Tour takes vistiors thorugh of life as a servant, as well as guest. This tour wonders through the Pope House, Pacheco & Honeymoon Cabins, and other structues that time permits.