Lake Tahoe, CALIFORNIA - Cave Rock - Lake Boat:  Cave Rock is a prominent 250-foot volcanic landmark on the southeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, though it is located in Nevada rather than California.

Geological and Cultural History

• Cave Rock: Formed about 5 million years ago as part of a volcanic vent. Its signature caves were hollowed out by higher lake wave actions 70,000 to 120,000 years ago.

• Sacred Significance: Considered a powerful spiritual site by the Washoe Tribe, who believe only specialized medicine people should visit the upper formations. Rock climbing was permanently banned in 2008 to protect its cultural heritage.

• Transportation Milestones: Early travelers bypassed the massive rock using a Gold Rush wagon trail and an 1860s wooden trestle bridge. The first highway tunnel for U.S. Route 50 was blasted through in 1931, followed by a second tunnel in 1957.

Lake Boating History

• Early Watercraft: The region's earliest vessels included Washoe Indian dugouts.

• Steamship Era: Commercial steamships began operating in 1864, peaking between 1890 and 1895.

• S.S. Tahoe: Launched in 1896, this famous 169-foot vessel carried up to 200 passengers and was known as the "Queen of the Lake" before being scuttled in 1940.

• Modern Recreation: Today, the state park facility at Cave Rock features a popular double-ramp boat launch for exploring the lake.

This Divided Back Era (1907-15) postcard is in good condition.  No. 8652.