Best CA: Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe from Mount Tallac See the latest Lake Tahoe Trail Reviews

If the pristine beaches and clear waters weren’t enough for you, and you want a change from the nightlife and casinos of the South shore, there are plenty of ways to further enjoy the tranquility of the Lake Tahoe region on two feet. We’ve explored and reviewed the best hiking trails around Lake Tahoe, from alpine lakes and snowshoeing around historic events to climbing the highest peaks in the region.

Please remember to take things easy up here in Lake Tahoe, which begins at an elevation above 6,000 feet and many of the trails we cover here ascend even higher. Planning for these conditions is very easy however - just remember to pack plenty of water and allow for plenty of time as you adjust to the altitude.

Listed below are our favorite hikes around Lake Tahoe. Since the area is so large, we’ve broken them up geographically. If you’re visiting from points West – like San Francisco and Sacramento – you want to take Interstate 80 to reach the trails in North Lake Tahoe and the quieter US 50 to reach the Southern trails. Both are a great drive.

North Lake Tahoe
Mount Judah covered in snow. 5★ Donner Peak & Mt Judah
3-5 mi · Moderate • Gain 890-1,310ft
Stunning views await you on this hiking and showshoe route in the Northern Sierras, taking in two separate peaks.
Snowy Castle Peak through the clouds 5★ Castle Peak
5 mi · Moderate · Gain 1,670ft
Only a stone's throw from the interstate 80 near Donner Summit, Castle Peak offers a trail as challenging as many back country trails.
Lower Loch Leven Lake between the trees 4★ Loch Leven Lakes
7 mi · Moderate · Gain 1,300ft
Ascend the Sierra Nevada mountains in search of several scenic high alpine lakes.
Snowshower on the shores of Donner Lake 4★ Donner Memorial State Park
3 mi · Easy · Gain 50ft
An easy hiking trail or beginner snowshoe route adjacent to the museum and memorial dedicated to the ill-fated Donner party.
Hiker descending on a rocky trail with a snowy mountain in the background 4★ Mount Rose
10 mi · Moderate · Gain 2,210-2,340ft
The second tallest Tahoe peak and most prominent feature of the North shore skyline, this trail is mostly above the trees and gradually ascends to the summit.
Lake reflecting a pointed peak 4★ Five Lakes Granite Chief Wilderness
4 mi · Moderate · Gain 1,090ft
Nestled in the foothills of the Granite Chief Wilderness peaks just North of Lake Tahoe, the Five Lakes promise dramatic yet tranquil surroundings.

South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe viewed from Mount Tallac 5★ Mount Tallac
9 mi · Hard · Gain 3,290ft
The jewel in the crown of mountains which ring Lake Tahoe, Mount Tallac promises unparalleled views from it's 9,735 foot summit.
Waterfall cascades down a mountain side in various tiers. 5★ Horsetail Falls
3 mi · Moderate · Gain 580ft
Late spring and early summer may be the best times to appreciate Horsetail Falls, but a hike up Pyramid Creek Trail is still a worthwhile experience any time.
The image shows a lively outdoor scene with people enjoying a day by a body of water, likely a river or lake. One person is captured mid-jump off a rock into the water, while others are either standing or sitting on the rocks, watching. The background features trees and a clear blue sky, adding to the serene and adventurous atmosphere. 5★ The Potholes
1 mi · Easy · Gain 100ft
These potholes are infinitely more fun than a bump in the road. An excellent swimming hole that's a great relief on warm summer days.
Abord a boat looking out onto a narrow pass on a lake, surround by pine trees and rocks. 4★ Echo Lakes & Desolation Wilderness
6 mi · Easy · 870ft
With or without the water taxi, a hike alongside the pristine Echo Lake is one not to be forgotten.
Distant mountain peak, nearby boulder in an alpine setting 4★ Round Top at Carson Pass
5-10 mi · Moderate · Gain 1,230-3,400
Rocky Sierra peaks, alpine meadows, crystal clear lakes, fast flowing brooks, abandoned mine buildings and awesome wildflower displays. What more could you want?
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