Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail
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Table of contents
The Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail is a challenging, but scenic adventure that boasts wonderful vistas of the Sierra Nevada’s granite peaks, a blue-hued alpine lake bounded by pines, and lush meadowlands. With ample scenery to explore, this stimulating trek is well-worth adding to your hiking itinerary!
Route Description for Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail
The Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail is a wonderful excursion near South Lake Tahoe that exhibits the grandeur and diversity of the landscape. From wildflower meadowlands, snow-capped craggy peaks, and everything in between, there is no shortage of stunning scenery along this trek. As this route traverses various terrain types, we recommend wearing sturdy footwear and dressing in layers! Check the forecast prior to your hike and head out in the morning to avoid getting caught in an afternoon storm at the exposed basin.
Setting out from the trailhead, the Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail follows the Meiss Meadow/Round Lake Trail. From here, the path will travel up a set of switchbacks to weave between tree shade and exposed terrain. Enjoy the mixed pines and wildflowers as you ascend the path, and you will soon approach a small snow-melt stream, intersecting with it on numerous occasions. Eventually, you will reach an intersection and veer right to be diverted onto the Dardanelles Trail.
Follow this path up to Dardanelles Lake. Admire the shimmering alpine pool bounded by towering pines and an impressive granite bluff. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly waters, before retracing your footing along the path back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail Trailhead
The Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail departs from the Meiss Meadow/Round Lake Trailhead off S Upper Truckee Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Backcountry Camping
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
Dardanelles Lake via Christmas Valley Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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