Desolation Hotel, named for the Desolation Wilderness near which it resides, opened in August 2022 in South Lake Tahoe. Immersed in the scenic alpine beauty of the Sierra Nevada range and inspired by preservationist John Muir, this dog-friendly hotel commits to supporting the local Tahoe community, leading in sustainable hospitality and helping guests enjoy the natural experiences the region offers.

© Brad Scott Visuals / Desolation Hotel

The 21 luxuriously appointed suites, each with al-fresco soaking tubs on private balconies, in-room fireplaces and kitchenettes featuring Bertazzoni gas ranges, lie within walking distance to South Lake Tahoe’s best experiences, including a private beach along Lake Tahoe; skiing, hiking and mountain-biking trails; family sledding areas; local shops; and more.

The property features a Peloton-outfitted fitness center, saltwater pool, Jacuzzi and a Port Orford Cedar sauna, as well as dining destinations like Velma’s, serving seasonal cocktails and small bites poolside, and Maggie’s restaurant and bar, offering almost 360-degree views of the nearby mountains and towering pine trees from its third-story location.

© Brad Scott Visuals / Desolation Hotel

“We live, work, and play in this community, from our founders to many of the team members who helped build the hotel. We are incredibly passionate about delivering an authentic, locally conscientious, and unforgettable South Lake Tahoe experience for our guests,” said Chet Pipkin, founder, Desolation Hotel.

Led by local firm Monarch Architecture and design firm STUDIOETTE, Desolation Hotel’s exterior and interiors prioritize sustainability and the property’s rich natural environment. The color palette of muted forest greens, deep lake-hued blues and rich ambers evokes the region’s wooded forests, lakes and iconic sunsets. Local Tahoe and regional California artists crafted original works for the hotel, some of which rotate seasonally and include signature pieces of custom stained glass by artist Debbie Bean; a dimensional wood-wall sculpture from design studio Tundish; and in-room photography by acclaimed adventure photographer Ted Hesser.

© Brad Scott Visuals / Desolation Hotel

Led by Executive Chef Skyler Chauss, Maggie’s takes its name from the Maggie’s Peaks hike, a challenging trail loved by locals and visitors. Dishes may include spinach tagliatelle topped with prosciutto-wrapped diver scallops or a bison tomahawk steak sourced from Humboldt County.  All produce originates from local farms picked fresh that morning. The bar program features a collection of rare Scotch whiskies and emphasizes local producers like Tahoe Blue Vodka.

Lake Tahoe © Brad Scott Visuals / Desolation Hotel

Velma’s, named after the Velma Lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, features a rotating selection of seasonal light bites, Maggie’s most popular cocktails and an expansive non-alcoholic mocktail selection. A favorite is Velma’s Thai basil & rye whiskey Bloody Mary, paired with a house-cured bacon flight.

Rates start at $349 per night, depending on suite size and date.