Fallen Leaf Chapel - Lake Tahoe

Today we’re visiting Fallen Leaf Chapel, a spot that has been lovingly referred to as “the cutest little building in all of Tahoe.” And while not technically located at the lake, this has to be one of the most romantic wedding venues in all of the Lake Tahoe area.

History

St. Francis of the Mountains Chapel was dreamed up by local pioneer William Wightman Price who founded the local Camp Agassiz here, as well as the Fallen Leaf Lake Lodge. Price and his wife Bertha desired to build a chapel so there would be a dedicated place for church services…and 100 years ago in 1921 William Price and Walter Hansen began laying the stone foundation for this chapel. In 1922 the building was framed in pine by Carpenter Volk, and tragically Mr. Price’s health failed and he passed away on Nov 9th 1922, so he never saw the chapel completed. But on July 1, 1923 Reverend David Evans conducted the first service here and the chapel was dedicated to the memory of William Price.

Location

This structure is often referred to as Fallen Leaf Chapel because of its location at the southeast side of Fallen Leaf Lake. You can reach this magical spot hidden away in the woods by following the very remote Fallen Leaf Road for 3.5 miles (some parts of this road are rough and only one lane, so drive slowly and respectfully). The chapel is located on the left side of the road just before the Fallen Leaf Fire Department…if you pass the fire station then you’ve gone too far. Located less than a 1/4 mile from Fallen Leaf Lake, this area is popular for beach activities, biking and hiking…in fact there is a wonderful hiking trail to Angora Lakes next to the chapel entrance.

Visiting

Fallen Leaf Chapel is open for services from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but the grounds remain open throughout the year. A gentle little trail to the left of the building leads across a small footbridge to a beautiful outdoor memorial garden filled with plaques and lovely shrubbery. Aspen trees surround this area, making Fall colors especially vibrant here. However, the road closes in the Winter due to heavy snows, so I’d recommend planning your visit before the end of October. Only about 50 residents live in this area during the Winter, but in the Summer time the Fallen Leaf Lake area grows to over 2,000 residents.

Know Before You Go

• The beautiful Glen Alpine Falls can be reached by continuing just 5 minutes down the road and makes for an equally worthy stop if you’re in the area. For more info on the falls, see my recent “Lower Glen Alpine Falls” blog post on it here.

• The chapel was originally founded as nondenominational, but in 1978 the Prince family deeded the chapel to the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California, though all are welcome here.

• Parts of this drive are very narrow with sudden corners, so please drive carefully (unfortunately I’ve seen my fair share of cars zipping down the road unaware of the sudden changes which is extremely dangerous).

• Be aware of the weather when it gets cold…snow and sleet can move in quickly making it dangerous to drive.

• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip.

Lake Tahoe Points of Interest

• Cave Rock
• Emerald Bay & Inspiration Viewpoint
• Vikingsholm
• Emerald Bay State Park
• Glen Alpine Falls
• DL Bliss State Park
• Tallac Historic Site
• Sand Harbor Beach
• Bonsai Rock & Whale Rock
• Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake

In Summary & Behind the Blog Video

For a virtual tour of the area, watch my Behind the Blog video below…and today I will leave you with the lovely poem that decorates the front of the chapel. Until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.

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