Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop

Route Description for Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop

The Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop is an adventurer’s oasis, and there is no doubt as to why! With diverse scenery and various topographies to explore, hikers and bikers alike will be stimulated by the stunning landscape as they progress along the route. Traveling through both shaded and exposed terrain, we recommend dressing in layers as insurance against changing conditions. Additionally, as you will be hiking deep into the wilderness it is important to be mindful of wildlife!

Setting out from the trailhead, the Tahoe City Rim Trail Loop follows the Tahoe Rim Trail up a switchback before climbing northwest along the cliffside above the Truckee River. Gradually climbing through woodlands and meadowlands, the path will eventually curve you north, up to the summit of Cinder Cone. From here, you will be granted distant views of Lake Tahoe in the east through the tree breaks.

Setting out from here, the path will begin to slowly descend along the Powerline Trail. At the path’s end, turn right onto the Ocelot Trail. At the next junction, track the Mount Watson Access Road south, all the way down to Fairway Drive. From here, keep right and briefly wander along the shoulder of the road back to the trailhead.