15 Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe

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Hiking in Lake Tahoe is undoubtedly one of the most captivating experiences you can have. The lake is over two million years old and it has so many picturesque spots that can only be reached by hiking. 

To get the best views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding lakes, you’ll want to set off on the right hiking trails – the ones that will bring you closest to the best views and that best fit your level of fitness and time constraints.

» Check out The Perfect Lake Tahoe Itinerary for Summer.

Are you planning your trip to Lake Tahoe?

If you’re traveling to Lake Tahoe, ensure you have lodging and tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe (and Nearby):

  1. Deerfield Lodge at Heavenly (South Lake Tahoe 9.6/10 Exceptional)
  2. Marriott Grand Residence Club (South Lake Tahoe / 1 to 3 bedrooms & penthouse)
  3. Cedar Glen Lodge (9.4/10 Exceptional / Tahoe Vista; North Lake Tahoe)

Best Tours and Experiences in Lake Tahoe:

  1. Self-Guided E-Bike Tour of the World Famous East Shore Trail (5⭐️ reviews)
  2. Sunset Hike and Photography Tour in South Lake Tahoe (moderately challenging 2-hour trek with breathtaking sunset views)
  3. Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe (in completely transparent kayaks!)

We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best hikes in Lake Tahoe to give you a head start. These trails can be found around all sides of the lake and can be done between June and October (sometimes earlier or later, depending on snow fall). Before you go see our guide to the best times to visit Lake Tahoe.

» Find the perfect hiking clothes. I love these weather resistant, breathable shorts by Arcteryx (for women | for men) paired with a light performance shirt (for women | for men).

Lake Tahoe an the surrounding mountains, best hikes in lake tahoe

» Did You Know – You can even hike around the entire lake on the Tahoe Rim Trail, which will take you about 10-15 days

Where is Lake Tahoe & How to Get There

Lake Tahoe straddles the border between California and Nevada. The western side of Lake Tahoe is in the state of California. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the closest commercial airport to North Lake Tahoe, which is just a 45-minute drive. Sacramento is a 2-hour drive along I-80 and San Francisco is a nearly 4 hour drive. 

Thanks to the diversity of recreational activities around the lake – from water skiing to snow skiing, hiking, fishing, and even beaches – it’s truly a year-round destination. Hiking is possible all year round, but only in some areas that are not too snowed in to reach.

Looking for more info? See our full destination guide as well as posts on Lake Tahoe in Winter, Lake Tahoe in Summer, the best times to visit Lake Tahoe, and the 15 best hikes in the area.

Our Recommended Lake Tahoe Hotel

Marriott Grand Residence

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Marriott Grand Residence Club
✔️ Located inside Heavenly® Village
✔️ Heated pool & hot tub

What You Might Encounter

A black bear

Hiking in the wilderness has its challenges so there are a few things to prepare for. One being what animals you might encounter along the way.

There are black bears in the Lake Tahoe area, as well as the occasional mountain lion, bobcat, and rattlesnakes. While any of these can pose a threat to hikers, if you’re alert and aware of your surroundings, you can avoid danger by creating a bit of a scene – wave your arms, shout a warning, and slowly back away. For rattlesnakes, try to scan the ground around you as you go.

Are There Entry Fees & Rules?

Permits are required year-round for both day and overnight use in most of the wilderness areas. The rules and regulations vary in each area, so be sure to check the rules for where you’re going before you head out. Entry fees to Lake Tahoe are $10 per vehicle, or $2 for bicycles. 

Hiking Etiquette

A hiker with mountains in the background

It is essential always to be aware of hiking etiquette, so it is recommended to look up the laws of the land before diving into exploration. Some of which include: 

  • Do not drive off of established roads. 
  • Only create campfires in designated areas. 
  • Do not feed or approach any wildlife. 
  • Never leave trash behind.

Tours to Enjoy Around Lake Tahoe

The Top 15 Hiking Trails in Lake Tahoe

#1 Cascade Falls Trail

Cascade Lake
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 2.3 km
  • Average time: 40m
  • Elevation gain: 78 m

We’re starting with one of the easiest yet rewarding trails, Cascade Falls. The trail begins at the Bayview trailhead, which is located on the back side of the Bayview Campground.

You won’t come across any extremely high elevations while navigating through the forest. However, you should be cautious of large rocks and scattered boulders.  

Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, Cascade Lake, and Emerald Bay. Then you’ll arrive at the waterfall, where you can stop for a snack or just gaze at its beauty.

#2 Fallen Leaf Lake Trail

Fallen leaf lake

Fallen Leaf Lake is a fantastic spot for hiking, fishing, biking, and picnicking. There are several routes to get to the lake, but the main one is located behind the Fallen Leaf Campground.

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 5.8 km
  • Average time:  1h 
  • Elevation gain: 42 m

The trail is mostly flat, going slightly upward and then down to the lake, where you can also see Mount Tallac. This hike in the fall is one of the top locations to see aspens. In fact, the spot is magical in all seasons, as it’s also a popular snowshoeing destination in the winter.

#3 Eagle Lake Trail 

Eagle Lake Trail
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 3.1 km
  • Average time: 1h 
  • Elevation gain: 140 m

The Eagle Lake trail is a must-see for hikers in Lake Tahoe. The trail begins at Emerald Bay and is well-marked, making it easy to follow.

The majority of the path is made up of granite steps. They’re steeper at some points than others, with a noticeable inclination, but thankfully this doesn’t last long. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by beautiful waterfalls and blossoms. 

This hike comes to a close with a spectacular view of Eagle Lake. Don’t be afraid to take a quick dip; the water is incredibly clean and refreshing!

#4 Mount Tallac Trail

Mount Tallac Trail
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Distance: 16.9 km
  • Average time: 6h 30m
  • Elevation gain: 998 m

The Mount Tallac trail is riddled with obstacles, but no one has ever returned disappointed. There are stellar views all around, but the real treat awaits when you reach the summit. 

The trail begins in the parking lot at Mount Tallac’s road, across the street from the Baldwin Beach entrance.

The hike is strenuous, but its highlights are quite tempting. You’ll get to see amazing views of the Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe, Cathedral Lake, Fallen Leaf Lake, and Floating Island Lake. Not to mention the 360-degree view of Gilmore Lake from the summit.

#5 Spooner Lake Trail

Spooner Lake
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 4 km
  • Average time:  50m
  • Elevation gain: 38 m

Spooner Lake is a man-made reservoir on Lake Tahoe’s Nevada side. Its pathway is gorgeous, surrounded by aspens and wildflowers as well as adorable waterfowl!

This hike is pretty straightforward, and there are plenty of informational signs to help you along the way. There’s little to no elevation change, so you’ll be completely focused on the lush greenery surrounding you and the serene lake.

#6 Five Lakes Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Average time: 2h 40m
  • Elevation gain: 341 m

This trail is full of surprises because it takes you past not one, but five dazzling lakes! The Five Lakes trailhead is located directly off the Alpine Meadows main road.

The hike will begin with Alpine Meadows scenery as you climb a hillside. It’ll be steep at first, but once you reach the Granite Chief Wilderness sign, the difficult part will be over. 

Following your ascent, you’ll arrive at the first lake, from which you can follow narrower trails to the other lakes. Take your time exploring all of them, as each one has a distinct aesthetic.

#7 Middle Velma Lake

Velma lakes desolation wilderness
  • Difficulty: Moderate 
  • Distance: 15.6 km
  • Average time: 5h 
  • Elevation gain: 671 m

The trek to Middle Velma Lake is filled with jaw-dropping scenery. You can access this trail from either the Bayview trailhead, which is the easier route, or the Eagle Falls trailhead. Both trailheads are located on Emerald Bay road

This trail spreads through the rugged terrain of Desolation Wilderness. Frankly, it’s quite steep and rocky, especially the first 5 km, and this applies both up and down, so you’ll need to be careful. 

The exciting part is that you’ll get to witness a diversity of views, including Lake Tahoe, Eagle Lake, several Sierra Peaks, and much more!

#8 Lola Montez Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 10.1 km
  • Average time: 3h
  • Elevation gain: 300 m

Lola Montez Lake is a real gem in the Tahoe area, with its trailhead beginning at the Hole in the Ground trail near Soda Springs.

If you’ve already seen Lake Tahoe, this is the trail to try something new, and as a bonus, you won’t have to put in much effort. 

This hike will leave you with precious memories of majestic pine forests and an unforgettable swim in the glimmering Lola Montez Lake.

#9 Granite Lake and Maggies Peaks 

Views of granite lake and lake tahoe from maggies peak
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Distance: 6.6 km
  • Average time: 3h
  • Elevation gain: 542 m

This won’t be an easy hike, but it’ll pay off with a bird’s eye view of Lake Tahoe, Granite Lake, and the Desolation Wilderness. The trail will begin at the Bayview trailhead.

The trek will become steeper by the mile, but it’ll eventually level off near Granite Lake. After admiring the lake’s serenity, you’ll proceed to Maggie’s Peaks for the panoramic view. Both peaks offer spectacular scenery, so it doesn’t matter which one you climb.

#10 Echo Lakes Trail

Echo lakes trail
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 8.5 km
  • Average time: 2h
  • Elevation gain: 156 m

This is one of the more manageable hikes that everyone enjoys. It’s not too strenuous, not too easy, and you get to see the beauty of the wilderness in various shades. The Echo Lakes trail begins just before the Echo Chalet parking lot.

Prepare to be amazed by the mighty pine trees that line the trail and embrace crystal blue lakes along the way. You’ll also notice unique stone formations, as well as sections of the trail carved straight out of granite boulders. 

When you arrive at Echo Lake, do yourself a favor and jump in! It’s an excellent freshwater swimming spot.

#11 Mount Rose Trail

Mount Rose Trail
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Distance: 17.2 km
  • Average time: 5h 40m
  • Elevation gain: 730 m

Mount Rose trail is an extremely scenic destination and is popular for hiking and skiing. The trail begins near the Mount Rose Summit parking lot, specifically behind the bathrooms.

This trail is very well-marked, with signs guiding you the entire way. It can be difficult for some to complete because of its high elevations and extreme rocky areas at times. 

If you don’t mind the challenge, you’ll experience an unforgettable hike that passes through lush meadows, a magical waterfall, and a sweeping lake view.

#12 Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 2.1 km
  • Average time: 30m
  • Elevation gain: 19 m

If you want to go for a quick hike with your family or just wander around, this is the trail for you. The Tahoe Meadows Interpretive trail is well maintained and is even wheelchair accessible.

With its neverending landscapes and wildlife, this easy trek is a sight for sore eyes. Strolling there feels like you’re in a Disney movie, with bright greenery all around you, birds singing, and occasional glimpses of deer! 

This destination is just as fascinating in the winter as it is in the summer.

#13 Rubicon Trail

View of Lake Tahoe from Rubicon Trail
  • Difficulty: Challenging 
  • Distance: 30.1 km
  • Average time: 9h
  • Elevation gain: 647 m

You’ve probably heard of the Rubicon Trail, which is famous for off-road driving in the U.S that it’s dubbed the “crown jewel of highway trails.” Having that said, it’s a fantastic location for truly adventurous hiking. 

You can access this trail from the Loon Lake trailhead, but multiple other trailheads also lead to it.

This hike is tricky, with some rock-crawling, shallow river crossings, and maneuvering sharp rocks. However, it’s an iconic hike around Lake Tahoe because it features two prominent state parks, D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay. Put differently, the scenery on this trail is unmatched. 

#14 Incline Flume Trail

View of Lake Tahoe from the Incline village trail
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 6.9 km
  • Average time: 1h 30m
  • Elevation gain: 63 m

The Incline Flume trail is an easy hike for beginners. The trail is located above Incline Village and is accessed mainly via Mt. Rose Highway.

The trail is relatively flat and straightforward. In fact, it’s a widely known destination for both trail runners and mountain bikers. Throughout your hike, you’ll see beautiful wildflowers and stunning views of Lake Tahoe.

#15 Lake Aloha via Glen Alpine Trailhead

Lake Aloha
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Distance: 17.9 km
  • Average time: 5h 30m
  • Elevation gain: 598 m

Aloha Lake is a hike-worthy destination and staying overnight to take in the scenery is even better. This adventure will begin at Glen Alpine Trailhead.

This trek is difficult, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers. The trail is decorated by the glowing blue water of Heather Lake and Susie Lake. It’s also complemented with charming hues of wildflowers and ends with an epic view of Aloha Lake.

Wrapping Up The Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe

You can decide which trail you want to visit now that you’re familiar with the best hikes in Lake Tahoe!

Just make sure to check if any of the trails you intend to visit will require a permit and learn about its parking regulations. Moreover, always check for weather-related closures so you don’t go there in vain.

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Lake Tahoe and Granite Lake from Maggies Peak
15 Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe

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