Lake Tahoe, which borders the states Nevada and California, is known as an outdoor hub for those who love to ski, hike, climb, mountain bike, SUP, wake-board, backpack, and so much more! The endless opportunities for adventures draw weekend crowds that can double and even 10x the residential population. So, it is important to know where you are going and what you are looking for when you head towards this magical place. If you are looking for hiking suggestions, here are FIVE enjoyable yet challenging hikes for you!
Mount Tallac
Distance: 10.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,290 feet
Time: 4-6 hours
Water: a few seasonal streams
Trail Head: Mount Tallac TH
Thoughts: Hiking to the top of Mount Tallac is a wonderful day hike with spectacular views. The trail is friendly and there are people along the way regardless of the time of day or year. A south lake Tahoe classic hike! If you want to climb this with friends or alone, this will walk in the woods will be a great adventure. You follow a trail to the top, but for those of you without any experience walking over rocks, you may find a few areas to be challenging. Make sure to look over your shoulder at the views of Lake Tahoe!
Resources:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mt-tallac-trail
Mount Rose
Distance: 11.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2388 feet
Time: 4-6 hours
Water: one stream roughly in the middle
Trail Head: Mount Rose TH
Thoughts: Located on the north-east side of the lake, hiking Mount Rose is a fantastic way to gain a different perspective on Lake Tahoe. The hike starts flat, but be ready to walk uphill! Mount Rose is a friendly mountain to climb for all those who want to earn a view. Most can do this in a single day, often perfect for those seeking their nature fix, post-work, who commute between Carson City and Incline Village. This hike is often packed with others, so be ready to share the trail and chat with those passing you.
Resources:
Lake Aloha
Distance: 13 miles
Elevation Gain: 1889 feet
Time: 5-10 hours
Water: Lots
Trail Head: Lake Aloha TH (At Echo Lake)
Thoughts: If you want beauty, a good hike, and to swim in those alpine lakes, this hike is for you! Hiking through the chain of lakes in Desolation Wilderness called Lake Aloha is a magical time. You might want to turn this day hike into an overnight trip and sleep near a lake. The water is clear and clean. The lakes are surrounded by mountains. Best of all, the amount of people for such an accessible hike is manageable!
Resources:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/lake-aloha-trail
Tahoe Rim Trail
Distance: 165 miles
Elevation Gain: 26,578 feet
Time: 7-12 days
Water: prepare ahead
Trail Head: Traditional start is Tahoe City, but there are several TH to choose from
Thoughts: If you have the time, this hike is a must! Not because it is the easiest way to stroke your ego by telling all of your friends you circumnavigated Lake Tahoe along its rim. Not because you’ll have endless images to share with your friends and family. This trail is a must because it is challenging, the hills are serious, the landscapes change constantly, and the number of alpine lakes you can swim in feel endless!
Resources:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tahoe-rim-trail-trt-complete-loop
The Three Sisters (Freel-Jobs-Jobs Sister)
Distance: 11.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,825 feet
Time: 4-6 hours
Water: none
Trail Head: Fire road off Luther’s Path, see “Getting There” details in the resource below
Thoughts: This is my personal favorite and typically do this once or twice a year. The views, especially from Freel, are outstanding. Freel is the tallest peak in the area, so that means you get to see 360 degrees with nothing obstructing your view. Could you ask for anything better? Well, if not, let me tell you it does get better. You get to wander off the trail and do some route finding, which will help prepare you to head further south in the Eastern Sierra. There isn’t much water, so make sure to bring plenty. Long story short, if you want a challenge, go for this!
Resources:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/freel-peak-jobs-sister-jobs-peak-loop