Hikes in Lake Tahoe
Craving an adventure? Lake Tahoe and the imposing High Sierra is one of California’s most popular outdoor adventure destinations. The collection of dramatic Sierra Nevada Mountains, evergreen forestlands, and picture-perfect alpine lakes make for some incredibly scenic hikes! Straddling the border between Nevada and California, this region attracts millions of visitors from all over, eager to explore the picturesque landscape. In addition to the snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes, the area is also characterized by the Tahoe National Forest, Eldorado National Forest, Lake Tahoe National Forest Basin, and the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest that preserve and encompass the pristine environment.
Whether you are seeking a technical ascent up the Sierra Nevada or a relaxing forest walk, Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of adventures! Wander through red firs, quaking aspens, meadowlands teeming with wildflowers, up granite bluffs, or to historic sites—the possibilities are endless! Delivering both high energy and easy-going experiences, there are hiking routes suitable for all skill levels and ages. Have we convinced you yet? A trip to Lake Tahoe is a must-add to your adventure itinerary—trust us.
15 Fantastic Hiking Routes in Lake Tahoe
As self-proclaimed adventure experts, we took it upon ourselves to curate a list of the 15 best hiking trails around Lake Tahoe. From taxing treks to easy-going nature walks and everything in between. We hope you enjoy these epic trails—Happy hiking! Check it out:
- Rubicon Trail - Not to be confused with the popular Rubicon off-roading route, the Rubicon Hike is a demanding trail that hugs the shoreline of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay. Immerse yourself in lush forestlands, wander along shoreline cliffs, and explore historic sites all while enjoying the picture-perfect panoramas of Lake Tahoe and the High Sierra.
- Eagle Rock Trail - Indulge yourself with overwhelming vistas of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range from Eagle Rock—a volcanic outcrop. This short, but scenic route can be enjoyed by the whole family.
- Cascade Falls Trail - Who doesn’t love a waterfall hike, right? Well, the Cascade Falls Trail offers a stunning snowmelt cascade as well as epic views of Lake Tahoe, Cascade Lake, and the encompassing snow-capped summits. Easy-going and family-friendly, what more could you ask for?
- Echo Lakes Trail - Hike to not one, but two shimmering alpine lakes along the Echo Lakes Trail. Get a taste of what the Pacific Crest Trail has to offer as you wander the famous backpacking route through the High Sierra.
- Eagle Lake Trail - The Eagle Lake Trail is another scenic high-country adventure that boasts incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the imposing snow-capped summits from a charming alpine lake. This family-friendly hike into a glacial basin is a must-add to your adventure to-do list.
- Fallen Leaf Lake Trail - Immerse yourself in the picture-perfect scene of Angora Peak looming above the lake on the Fallen Leaf Lake Trail. This relaxing nature walk meanders through woodlands and along the shoreline of the shimmering lake.
- Vikingsholm Trail - Head back in time as you hike the Vikingsholm Trail. This scenic nature walk delivers explorers to the historic Vikingsholm mansion that sits on the shoreline of Emerald Bay, overlooking the alpine landscape. Head out in the summer and get a tour of the castle!
- Mount Tallac Hike - Put your stamina to the test as you tackle the Mount Tallac Trail. This demanding hike travels up to the 2,968 m summit that boasts epic vistas of the dramatic Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and alpine lakes nestled amongst them.
- Tallac Historic Site Loop - History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will enjoy the Tallac Historic Site Loop. Explore the historic estates and meander through the woodlands and meadowlands that encompass the grounds. In the winter months, this route makes for a great snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trail!
- Incline Flume Trail - The Incline Flume Trail is a popular shared route on the northeastern rim of Lake Tahoe. Lined with red firs, Jeffery pines, and vibrant wildflowers, this scenic trail makes for a great day-hike. Insiders tip: the parking lot at the trailhead fills up fast, so arrive early!
- Lam Watah Nature Trail to Nevada Beach Hike - The Lam Watah Nature Trail to Nevada Beach Hike is a wonderful family-friendly nature walk near Stateline. Enjoy a hike through meadowlands and lush forestlands before the route opens to Lake Tahoe, boasting post-card perfect panoramas.
- Barn Trail to Cal Neva Loop - Weave between the state of California and Nevada as you hike the Barn Trail to Cal Neva Loop. This impressively scenic adventure climbs up one of the few hiking routes in the Heavenly Ski Resort—offering a unique perspective of the mountainous landscape.
- Lake Aloha Trail - Though not as tropical as it sounds, the Lake Aloha Hike is a wonderful alpine adventure. Wander past several charming alpine lakes before arriving at the piece de resistance—Aloha Lake’s blue-hued waters adorned with many, many islands.
- Whiskey Creek Camp Trail - The Whiskey Creek Camp Trail offers a diversity of scenery—wander through lush woodlands to the Five Lakes and the ruins of the Whiskey Creek Camp. This unique adventure is a must-do when in the Lake Tahoe area.
- Glen Alpine Trail - Hiking the Glen Alpine Trail is a scenic experience. Demanding a bit of stamina, this route climb past an alpine lake, a snow-melt cascade, and up to the historic landmark that is the Glen Alpine Springs Resort.
When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe?
The beauty of Lake Tahoe’s hiking routes is that most trails can be explored year-round with the proper gear! Most consider the summer months to be the best time to explore Lake Tahoe, but it is also the busiest time of the year! In the summer months, the high-altitude trails are mostly cleared of snow, the paths are teeming with wildflowers and the alpine water is refreshing! Summer excursions present awesome hiking, trekking, swimming, fishing, diving, and mountain biking opportunities—but be prepared for the crowds!
Winter expeditions to Lake Tahoe are equally as exciting and scenic. Most trails are transformed into epic snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and even cross-country skiing routes. When exploring the area in the cooler months it is important to be mindful of increasingly dangerous terrain—often snow-cloaked and icy. Additionally, when venturing into the backcountry amongst the Sierra Nevadas, be aware of the threat of avalanches.
Open year-round, there is a sweet spot in the shoulder season when the trails are untouched, and the towns are quiet. Spring and fall adventures present the opportunity to enjoy the hiking routes in solitude, and accommodations in the area are usually cheaper. Note some campgrounds and roads close in the off-season, so your choice of stay may be limited!
Other Outdoor Activities near Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is more than just a hiking destination, though there is no denying that there are some pretty epic treks in the area! With miles of backcountry to explore, Lake Tahoe and surrounding areas offer an abundance of outdoor activities to satisfy all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts!
Consider mountain biking up Incline Flume Trail, cross country skiing the Tallac Historic Site Loop, or snowshoeing the Fallen Lake Leaf Trail. Additionally, other recreational activities include backpacking, fishing, sightseeing, swimming, paddle boarding, off-roading, diving, skiing, and boating. Abundant with life in the summer and winter months alike, the crowds that flock to Lake Tahoe are a testament to the area’s beauty and limitless adventure pursuits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Tahoe
What is Lake Tahoe Known For?
Lake Tahoe is a famous lake that straddles the boundary between California and Nevada. Earning the title as the largest alpine lake in North America, and also one of the deepest lakes, the blue-hued pool imposed by the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range is truly picture-perfect.
Where does Lake Tahoe get its water?
Lake Tahoe is an alpine lake mostly fed by snowmelt and rain from the 60 some tributaries that encircle the lake.
How deep is Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe has a maximum depth of 501 m.
Can you hike around Lake Tahoe?
Yes, the famous backpacking route, the Tahoe Rim Trail, loops around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe.
Does Lake Tahoe freeze?
No, the main body of Lake Tahoe does not freeze. Sometimes, though rare, Emerald Bay will freeze.
Epic Adventure Tours in Lake Tahoe
Unfortunately, we have yet to curate a Lake Tahoe adventure package but keep an eye out as we are always working on adding more exciting tours to the collection! Until then, we urge you to check out the California and Hawaii Multisport Self-Drive Tour, which includes a trip to Lake Tahoe!
Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California
Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe
Jake’s Peak Hike
The Jake’s Peak Hike is a short, sweet, and impressively scenic adventure in South Lake Tahoe. Wander through mixed pines, red firs, and up to the exposed summit. This epic adventure boasts breathtaking views after just a short hike, which is why it is so popular.
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Cold Creek Trail to High Meadows
The Cold Creek Trail to High Meadows is an epic hike that lives up to its name, featuring a cold creek and high meadows. Explore California’s high country and revel in the impressive scenery of the High Sierra along this route.
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Big Meadow to Scott’s Lake Hike
Immerse yourself in the alpine terrain along the Big Meadow to Scott’s Lake Hike. This hike boasts wonderful scenery while providing a good workout. Let the stunning views of the High Sierra motivate you to persist along this wonderful trek.
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Pope Baldwin Bike Path
The Pope Baldwin Bike Path is an epic adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The accessible route can be hiked or biked and is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. Wander the asphalt trail through a corridor of towering pine and red firs.
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High Meadows and Cold Creek Loop
The High Meadows and Cold Creek Loop is a must-add to your Lake Tahoe hiking itinerary. Wander through luxuriant meadowlands, mixed pine forests, and granite gardens along this trek. We love this scenic adventure, and we know you will too!
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Rawhide and Page Loop
Seeking an adventure near Tahoe City? The Rawhide and Page Loop is an epic adventure just outside the township that offers amazing scenery and a great workout. Whether you are a hiker or a biker, we know you’ll enjoy this adventure.
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Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop
The Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop is an awesome adventure that boasts epic panoramas. Get a taste of what the famous Tahoe Rim Trail has to offer as you venture the circuit atop Tahoe City. Wander into the High Sierra and revel in the beauty of the dramatic mountainous landscape.
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Tahoe Mountain Loop Trail
Hiking the Tahoe Mountain Loop Trail makes for a wonderful half-day hike. Adventure through mixed forestlands and granite gardens to the small Sierra Nevada summit that boasts awe-inspiring panoramas of Lake Tahoe, the city below, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
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Pats Knob Hike
The Pats Knob Hike is an epic adventure that boasts some of the best panoramas of Lake Tahoe and the bounding Sierra Nevada Peaks. Wander through mixed forestlands adorned with granite outcrops and up to the craggy summit, which rewards conquerors with great views.
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Skunk Harbor Hike
Don’t worry, the Skunk Harbor Traill is much better than it sounds. The Skunk Harbor Hike is a wonderful adventure on the eastern shores of Lake Tahoe. Venture down the pine-lined trail to the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, which boasts impressive panoramas of the High Sierra. Easy-going and easy to navigate, this route can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop
The Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop is a great outdoor excursion near Incline Village that the whole family can enjoy. Wander through luxuriant meadowlands, over boardwalks, and past several interesting interpretive signs along this scenic nature walk.
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Cal Neva Loop via Van Sickle Trail
Want to check off two states in one hike? The Cal Neva Loop via Van Sickle Trail is an epic excursion that weaves between California’s and Nevada’s state line—all the while exposing breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
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Alpine Lakes Loop Trail
The Alpine Lake Loop Trail is an amazing day-hike through the high country that guides intrepid explorers to not one, not two, not three, but over half a dozen shimmering alpine lakes. The breathtaking scenery along this excursion will overwhelm you as you wander.
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Granite Lake and Maggies Peaks Hike
The Granite Lake and Maggies Peaks Hike is a thrilling adventure above Emerald Bay that boasts incredible scenery. Meander up through granite gardens and mixed pine forests to the shimmering alpine lake that offers panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the bounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
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Amy and Granite Lakes Hike
The Amy and Granite Lakes Hike is a wonderful backcountry expedition that offers a relaxing, sequestered experience. Get outside and let the fresh mountain air fill your lungs as you meander through granite gardens and lodgepole pines to the shimmering lakes.
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Aloha Lake and Ralston Peak Hike
Seeking a demanding day-hike near South Lake Tahoe? The Aloha Lake and Ralston Peak Hike is a wonderful adventure for intrepid explorers craving a challenge. Hike over 24.1 km through the Desolation Wilderness past multiple alpine lakes boasting epic mountain views.
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Tamarack Lake and Aloha Lake Loop
The Tamarack Lake and Aloha Lake Loop is an epic adventure near South Lake Tahoe that exhibits the beauty and diversity of the High Sierra. Wander through the Desolation Wilderness past not one, not two, but several charming alpine lakes. What more could you ask for?
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Emerald Point Trail
The Emerald Point Trail is a stunning nature walk along the shoreline cliffs of Emerald Bay. Wander through red firs, quaking aspens, and mixed pines—enjoying sights of the High Sierra and the famous Lake Tahoe along the way.
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Five Lakes Trail
Immerse yourself in the high country along the Five Lakes Trail. This revered route offers incredible views of the charming alpine lakes and the High Sierra after just a quick walk! Get your heart rate up and let the fresh mountain air fills your lungs along this awesome trek.
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Winnemucca Lake Loop
The Winnemucca Lake Loop is a scenic adventure through the High Sierra that offers views of the encompassing mountains as you wander through meadowlands and mixed forests. Though the piece de resistance is Winnemucca Lake, the entirety of the hike is unassumingly picturesque!