Martis Creek Cabin

While most people think of Tahoe as a winter or summer destination, the off seasons are just as beautiful and adventure rich. Martis Creek Shepherds Cabin is a perfect example of a location that comes alive in the early fall months in the Tahoe region. It is seen and accessed from a pullout just outside of King's Beach on Highway 267, but most pass by the spot and never know it exists. Barely a few hundred feet from the parking spot lies a small, defunct shepherd's cabin in a small pocket of aspens along Martis Creek.

It will be easy to forget that Highway 267 is so close when you're wandering around the site, as the aura of history can be felt in the weathered planks of wood that miraculously still stand. While the cabin is at the back of the small path, a meadow of tall grass and another small aspen grove lie on the left side. Just past the cabin lies Martis Creek, which can be crossed to a forest trail. There are no signs here, but the local unofficial name is the Martis Creek Shepherd's Cabin.

Aspen trees connect underground through a root system with their above-ground neighbors. While these groves may be small, they provide an extra punch of color that is worth the stop. If you are around King's Beach or Northstar, this area is worth a short stop.