Glenbrook is a private, tucked-away community on Lake Tahoe
In the gated community of Glenbrook, residents get around on golf carts, boat to restaurants and spend time at private beaches on Lake Tahoe's eastern shoreline. Founded in 1860 as the lake’s first settlement, the community traded the thriving lumber industry of its early years for a serene setting bolstered by surrounding wildlife. "It's private and discreet," says longtime resident Susan Clemons, a Realtor with Chase International Real Estate. "You have to know where it is to find it." Though the lake serves as Glenbrook's focal point, its luxurious homes have made it an attractive destination for both seasonal and full-time residents.
From water recreation to golfing, hiking and snow tubing
The community’s shoreline offers half a mile of beach access for swimming and relaxing on the sand. Clemons notes that most residents keep their boats buoyed out on the water. “The community pier offers valet services from May through October as a part of our homeowners association fees,” she says. “It's operated by retired first responders who take great care of us and make sure we get to our boat and back home safely.” Glenbrook Club, of which most residents are members, features tennis courts and the state's oldest golf course, which stretches across nine holes. Wildflowers teem along wooded hiking trails directly northeast in the spring, and Spooner Summit Snow Play Area fills with sledders during the winter.
Architectural styles blend with the area's natural setting
A blanket of Jeffrey pine trees covers the bulk of Glenbrook, and most homes settle toward the west, close to the water. “The roads are narrow, but most people walk, bike or drive golf carts to get around,” Clemons says. The native flora frames properties built from the mid-20th century through the mid-2020s. Lots range from a quarter-acre to over 10 acres. Architectural styles vary, but many come in Craftsman and cabin styles or are custom-built. Large picture windows are common, allowing for a flood of light and natural views. The community's median sale price is $3 million.
Waterfront restaurants and shopping in Carson City
Gar Woods Grill & Pier is one of several lakeside restaurants that offer boat docking for those looking to grab a bite after a day on the water. The upscale eatery pairs California-style dishes with panoramic views out on its patio. Glenbrook Club also offers members sit-down dining closer to home. Chain spots like Chick-fil-A are available in Carson City, 16 miles east, where residents do most of their big-box shopping. “Pretty much anything we would need is in Carson City,” Clemons says. “They have a Trader Joe’s, Walmart Supercenter and many other stores. The Costco there is where everyone gets their gas because Carson City County taxes are some of the lowest.”
Students attend schools in the state's top-rated district
Douglas County School District serves the community. Niche gives the district a B-plus and ranks it the No. 1 best school district in the state. Zephyr Cove Elementary School enrolls prekindergarten through fifth-grade students and scores an A-minus. George Whittell High School teaches sixth through 12th grade and has a B-plus. The high school issues each student a Chromebook laptop to facilitate learning in and out of the classroom.
The community gathers for the Fourth of July Barbecue
The homeowners association hosts several events, like Movie Night at Ball Park and the anticipated July 4th Barbecue. The latter takes place on the holiday, getting the community together for a baseball game and golf cart parade before grilling out. The celebration closes with a grand fireworks show over the lake following sunset.
Convenient routes to Carson City and northern Lake Tahoe
U.S. Highway 50, also called Lincoln Highway, connects the area to Carson City as well as South Lake Tahoe, which is a 15-mile drive. State Route 28 is also accessible from the community and connects residents to the lake’s northern side.
Glenbrook's wildfire risk and prevention measures
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency data, Glenbrook is in a relatively moderate wildfire risk zone. The homeowners association’s website provides resources for wildfire prevention. Tahoe Fire & Fuels Team also conducts prescribed burns in and around the community when necessary.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
