Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    3.5-5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    13.5 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    414 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike lives up to its name, as it wanders through expansive meadowlands and up to the shimmering alpine lake. Get a taste of the world-famous Tahoe Rim Trail as you trek a section of the scenic route.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike

    Hike amongst avid adventurers along the Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake. This wonderful hike boasts breathtaking vistas of the High Sierra and the crystal-clear alpine lakes that decorate the mountain basins. As the route travels through high elevations, we recommend you wear layers and check the forecast prior to your trek to mitigate the chances of getting caught in an afternoon storm.

    Additionally, when hiking in the off-season, we recommend a pair of microspikes or snowshoes to navigate the terrain more safely. Be sure to keep an eye and ear out for wildlife as you venture into the wilderness.

    Setting out from the Tahoe Rim Trailhead, the Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike tracks south over the Luther Pass Road. Here, you will make your way up several switchbacks along Big Meadow Creek, before eventually arriving at an intersection. Veer left here over Big Meadow Creek and into Big Meadow, where you will be able to revel in the beauty of the luxuriant meadowlands. Continue your trek, gradually climbing up into the more forested area of the hike. At the next intersection, take a sharp right onto Meiss Meadow/Round Lake Trail, before taking a sharp left onto Dardanelles Trail.

    This path will guide you up to the shore of Dardanelles Lake, a charming alpine pool bounded by towering pines and craggy granite bluffs. After reveling in the scenery, retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike Trailhead

    The Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike departs from the southernmost Tahoe Rim Trailhead off Luther Pass Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter