The Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe is a mesmerizing and enchanting phenomenon that has captivated the attention of locals and visitors alike. This magical occurrence takes place on the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe, one of the most breathtaking bodies of water in the world. The Magic Carpet refers to the stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains on the surface of the lake. When the conditions are just right, the mountains seem to create an illusion of a floating rug or carpet on the water, giving it a surreal and magical appearance. The phenomenon occurs during the calm and still moments on the lake, usually in the early morning or late evening. It is a testament to the beauty and serenity of Lake Tahoe, as well as the power of nature to create awe-inspiring scenes.
Bill was no stranger to the business. He had built 13 miniature golf courses with uncles and brothers in the California cities of Alameda, Lake Berryessa, Bakersfield (an indoor course), Pinole and Konocti Harbor, then in Key West, Biloxi and Galveston. Family members ran all of those except for the ones in Konoti and Bakersfield.
In 1972, Bill and Mary Koplin built Magic Carpet Golf on land they purchased from Marjorie Springmeyer adjacent to what was once the South Lake Tahoe amusement park. He had built 13 miniature golf courses with uncles and brothers in the California cities of Alameda, Lake Berryessa, Bakersfield an indoor course , Pinole and Konocti Harbor, then in Key West, Biloxi and Galveston.
It is a testament to the beauty and serenity of Lake Tahoe, as well as the power of nature to create awe-inspiring scenes. Witnessing the Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The combination of the majestic mountains, crystal-clear waters, and the illusion of a floating carpet creates a sense of wonder and tranquility.
Family business in same South Lake Tahoe location for 43 years
What would you do if you had a family miniature golf business you wanted to pass onto your four children? Build three more, of course!
In 1972, Bill and Mary Koplin built Magic Carpet Golf on land they purchased from Marjorie Springmeyer adjacent to what was once the South Lake Tahoe amusement park. Marjorie had overheard Bill and his real estate agent talking in a local restaurant about Bill's plans for building the course. "I have a piece of property I can sell you," Marjorie told them.
At the time there was a gas station on the corner of Lodi and Highway 50, so the minigolf course was built on the land in-between the amusement park and the station. Years later the Koplins bought the land where the gas station was and expanded their parking area and home above the course.
Bill was no stranger to the business. He had built 13 miniature golf courses with uncles and brothers in the California cities of Alameda, Lake Berryessa, Bakersfield (an indoor course), Pinole and Konocti Harbor, then in Key West, Biloxi and Galveston. Family members ran all of those except for the ones in Konoti and Bakersfield.
In 1948 he built a popular course along the Russian River where he raised his family, one that daughter Karen has very fond memories of.
"Those were great times," said Karen. "All the kids hung out there."
In 1970, Bill and Mary bought property at Carnelian Bay and build the first Lake Tahoe area Magic Carpet Golf. This course was for his son Bill, Jr. who still operates the course.
Then came 1972 and South Lake Tahoe. Daughter Peggy was given this course to run.
In 1974 they added a Reno location for daughter Jeanne, who, you guessed it, still runs the place.
Daughter Karen operated the Russian River property until 1992 when she switched locations with Peggy and moved to South Lake Tahoe. Cal Trans bought the Russian River course in 1994 due to a freeway planned for the property.
Karen and her husband Gino Franceschi live most of the year above the Magic Carpet Golf on the corner of Lodi and 50, then head off the hill from time to time to their other home in Forestville, CA.
Their children, all now adults, have grown up at Magic Carpet. Though none of them live in South Lake Tahoe year round, they all come to town for the summer along with their own children to help run the family business.
Karen and Gino have four children, Tony, Nicki, Karey and Gina. They are also grandparents to ten. At any time you'll be sure to find one of them working the front counter at Magic Carpet. They also hire local teens to help out in the summer since the course is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The family truly does enjoy family time, no matter how many are in town.
Son Tony is a high school baseball coach and brings the team to South Lake Tahoe to play during the summer. The team camped out at the golf course over the 4th of July weekend.
"It's not a bad place to be," said Karen. She still plays the Magic Carpet course a couple of times a week as well as hitting the "real" golf courses. When asked what her best score has been at Magic Carpet, she said a 27 on the 18 hole course. You have to be awfully good to get a hold in one on each hole Karen said, adding that she hasn't seen that done before on her course.
Her grandson Nicholas who is a senior in high school wants to make "real" golf a career and currently works at a course.
Karen enjoys the generations of families she's seen go through Magic Carpet. "We're now seeing third and fourth generations here," she said. "They look forward to the tradition when they're in Lake Tahoe."
This year the family business has been the seen of many family reunions as well, many with 20-30 people playing together.
"I'm a people person," said Karen. "I enjoy watching people have fun." Her dad Bill was also a people person and very family oriented.
By trade he was a welder and trained a wartime generation of female welders made famous by the cultural icon Rosie the Riveter.
Magic Carpet is open Spring through Fall, and with weather permitting, winter too. Last year they were open some days in December and February.
All locals get a discount, so make sure to mention you're from South Lake Tahoe the next time you play either one of the two 19-hole courses, or the 28-hole course. They are located at 2455 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
This year the family business has been the seen of many family reunions as well, many with 20-30 people playing together.
It is a sight that evokes a feeling of being transported into a mythical realm. Many visitors flock to Lake Tahoe specifically to witness this extraordinary sight. They come armed with cameras and tripods, ready to capture the perfect shot of the Magic Carpet. The image of the mountains reflected on the calm surface of the lake is something that stays with you long after you leave the enchanting shores of Lake Tahoe. In addition to the Magic Carpet, Lake Tahoe offers a plethora of other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From adventurous water sports to relaxing cruises on the lake, there is no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural wonder. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone in search of a peaceful retreat, Lake Tahoe and its magical carpet offer something for everyone. It is a destination that holds the power to captivate, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing its beauty firsthand. The Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe is a reminder of the wonders of the natural world and a testament to the power and magic of our planet. It serves as a reminder to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and marvel at the extraordinary sights that nature has to offer..
Reviews for "Experience the magic of Lake Tahoe with a captivating carpet tour"
1. John - 2 stars - The Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe was a big letdown for me. The ride was slow and sluggish, and the view wasn't anything special either. I was expecting a thrilling experience, but this was far from it. The staff were also not very friendly and seemed disinterested in providing a good experience for the guests. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this attraction to anyone looking for excitement or beautiful views.
2. Emily - 1 star - My experience on the Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe was extremely disappointing. The ride itself was very short and uneventful. The views were alright, but nothing extraordinary. Additionally, the customer service was lacking. The staff appeared disorganized and didn't seem to have any enthusiasm for their job. I definitely regretted spending my money on this attraction and would not go again.
3. Mike - 2 stars - The Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe was a major letdown. The ride was extremely slow and boring, and the views were not as impressive as I had expected. The whole experience felt overpriced for what it offered. The staff were not very helpful or knowledgeable either. I would recommend looking for other activities in the area that are more exciting and worth your time and money.
4. Sarah - 1 star - Unfortunately, my experience on the Magic Carpet of Lake Tahoe was far from magical. The ride was dull and lacked any excitement. The views were average at best, and the whole experience was overpriced for what it offered. The staff were not friendly or helpful either. I would advise anyone visiting Lake Tahoe to skip this attraction and find something more worthwhile to do during their visit.