Extraordinary Lake Tahoe Log Home Built From Entire Cedar Tree Trunks Hits the Market for $4.5 Million

A striking log home that was constructed using the entirety of several enormous red cedar tree trunks has been put on the market for $4.45 million, just a few miles from the northern shores of Lake Tahoe.

Located in Truckee, CA, the multibuilding compound at 12804 Quail Lane was built in 2017 and has never been on the market before. The same family has owned it for the past nine years.

At first glance, the enormous primary residence at the center of the 5.36-acre estate stands apart from other log homes of its size, thanks in large part to the dramatic—and very beautiful—tree trunks that create an awe-inspiring entryway to the abode.

“The intact tree trunk details are definitely a highlight,” says broker and team lead Christy Morrison of Home & Slate. “They give the house a real storybook feel and break up the layout in a fun way.”

The exceptional property has been attracting attention since its construction, when the second season of HGTV Canada’s "Timber Kings" featured it in an episode in 2015.

Built by Pioneer Log Homes of British Columbia, the dwelling is constructed from hand-hewn logs sourced from coastal Canada, which lend it an otherworldly, larger-than-life character.

Indeed, the Western red cedar trunks used to build this home are around two to three times the size of the timber pieces that most Western log homes are traditionally built with.

The massive cedar logs are certainly among the property’s most unforgettable features, forming thick columns, sweeping beams, and natural interior walls that look sculptural.

That level of craftsmanship is no accident, according to listing agent Sarah Cain, who says the homeowners were incredibly hands-on during the construction process, working to ensure that the finished product would truly be one-of-a-kind.

“The sellers are the original owners and were very involved from start to finish—visiting on site during the construction phase,” Cain says. The home remains “a one-of-a-kind in Truckee.”

While the home’s enormous logs definitely steal the show, the layout is also notable. Rather than a single residence, the estate unfolds across three separate structures: the main house, a permitted apartment above the three-car garage, and a private studio above a large workshop building. That arrangement allows maximum flexibility and privacy.

The main house embraces the signature Lake Tahoe style of keeping outdoor living top of mind, even when indoors.

“Buyers will love the indoor-outdoor flow, especially with the multiple decks and large windows that bring in natural light and views,” Morrison says. “The main level has great entertaining space.”

The property also stands apart for its self-sufficiency. The compound operates off-grid, powered by advanced solar systems that provide electricity, heating, and hot water, along with battery storage and a backup generator.

Cain notes that this level of off-grid capability is particularly rare for the area, making the property especially distinctive among Truckee’s luxury offerings.

Recent updates throughout the home help balance its rustic craftsmanship with modern convenience. The kitchen and bathrooms have all been refreshed in recent years with new appliances, granite counters, and updated fixtures.

The 5-acre property offers flexibility for potential equestrian use or even a home-based business. But there’s also, of course, the prized opportunity to simply relax in one of California’s premier outdoor destinations.

“The location is fantastic—tucked away for privacy but just minutes from Old Greenwood, the golf course, and downtown Truckee,” Morrison says. “Great hiking and ski resorts are all close by.”

As is the Truckee River, which provides easy access to rafting, kayaking, and world-class fly-fishing.

Luxury log homes are part of the Tahoe region’s identity, but you don’t often find one built quite to this scale.

“What really makes this property stand out is the combination of craftsmanship and location,” Morrison adds. “Not to mention the way the home feels both cozy and spacious at once.”