Updated: Sept. 20, 2024
Rising to an elevation of 10,886 feet (3,318 meters), Freel Peak proudly claims the title of the tallest summit in the Lake Tahoe Basin. This iconic peak offers a challenging and rewarding physical experience, captivating the attention of hikers, backpackers, peak baggers, and trail runners alike. With its stunning vistas, challenging uphills, and sense of peace while standing atop the summit, it is no wonder hiking Freel is a popular Lake Tahoe hike. Although popular, not many visitors take on the challenge because this peak requires a half, to full, day for most hikers. The panoramic views of Lake Tahoe to the north, Carson Valley to the east, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains to the south, and east, make hiking Freel an unforgettable option to soak in the Lake Tahoe views. So, let’s dive into how you can successfully hike Freel Peak in South Lake Tahoe.
Pros:
Spectacular Views: Freel Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, the surrounding mountains, and the Carson Valley, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Variety of Trails: There are multiple trails to reach the summit of Freel Peak, catering to hikers of various skill levels and preferences. You can choose from shorter, steeper routes or longer, more gradual ascents.
Wildlife Viewing: The area around Freel Peak is home to diverse wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot birds, deer, and other animals along the trail.
Solitude: Compared to some of the more popular trails in the Lake Tahoe area, Freel Peak tends to be less crowded, providing a more peaceful and immersive outdoor experience.
Wildflowers: Depending on the season, you may encounter a variety of wildflowers along the trail, adding to the natural beauty of the hike.
Physical Challenge: If you're looking for a physically challenging hike, Freel Peak offers a good workout, especially if you choose one of the steeper routes.
Cons:
Elevation Gain: The hike to Freel Peak involves a significant elevation gain, which can be challenging for inexperienced hikers and those not acclimated to high altitudes.
Weather Variability: Weather conditions in the Lake Tahoe area can change rapidly, even during the summer months. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, wind, and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
Trail Difficulty: Some of the trails leading to Freel Peak can be steep and rocky, requiring proper footwear and hiking gear. Inexperienced hikers may find certain routes challenging.
Limited Facilities: There are limited facilities along the trail, such as restrooms and water sources. Ensure you carry enough water and supplies for your hike.
Trailhead Accessibility: Some trailheads to Freel Peak may require driving on unpaved roads, sometimes requiring 4x4, which could be a challenge for some vehicles.
Wildlife Encounters: While wildlife viewing can be a pro, it can also be a con if you encounter potentially dangerous animals like bears or mountain lions. Be aware of wildlife safety precautions.
Hiking Freel Peak Need to Know:
The hike up to Freel Peak is a hard, primitive, sandy and rocky trail. Located in the Carson Range in the Sierra Nevada near South Lake Tahoe, the hike offers great views of Lake Tahoe, High Meadow, Crystal Range and Desolation Wilderness.
Distance: 9.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 3763 ft
Route Type: Out and Back
Water: A couple of seasonal streams, make sure to bring your own water
Time to hike to Freel Peak Summit: 3 hours average
Time to hike Freel Peak car to car: 5-6 hours average
What to bring when day hiking Freel Peak:
Hiking Freel Peak is a serious hike in the Lake Tahoe area which takes you above 10,000 feet in elevation. While most people will be okay with reaching this summit, even if they are coming from sea level, some people might experience the altitude. Don’t let that scare you away though! Hiking Freel peak is a fun, full day adventure. If you are a fit human, or an avid trail runner, you can complete this hike in just a couple of hours. For those who are looking for a challenging hike in Lake Tahoe, this hike is for you. With that said, make sure you bring the essentials:
Hiking shoes like the Merrell Moab OR trail runners like La Sportiva Ultra Raptor
3 liters of water
500 calories of snacks
Hiking poles, my go-to are the Leki Khumbu (these save your knees)
A camera, like the Sony a6600 to capture gorgeous images
Best Time of Year to Hike Freel Peak:
The best time of year to hike Freel Peak largely depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience during your hike. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons to help you choose the optimal time for your adventure:
Spring (Late May to Early June):
Wildflowers: Spring is an excellent time to witness the Sierra Nevada's wildflower bloom. The hillsides around Freel Peak come alive with vibrant colors, adding to the scenic beauty.
Cooler Temperatures: While some snow may still linger on the higher elevations in late spring, temperatures are generally comfortable for hiking.
Limited Crowds: Spring is less crowded compared to the summer months, providing a more tranquil hiking experience.
Summer (Late June to Early September):
Warmer Weather: Summer offers the warmest temperatures for hiking, making it the most accessible time for many visitors.
Clear Skies: You can expect clear, sunny days for most of the summer, providing excellent visibility for panoramic views.
Longer Days: The longer daylight hours in summer give you more time to complete the hike and enjoy the summit.
Wildlife Sightings: Summer is a prime time for wildlife sightings, with animals becoming more active as they forage for food.
Fall (Late September to Early November):
Cooler Temperatures: Fall offers comfortable hiking temperatures with cooler days, making it an ideal season for those who prefer milder weather.
Fall Foliage: The aspen trees in the area turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange in the fall, creating a stunning contrast against the evergreen forests.
Fewer Crowds: Similar to spring, fall sees fewer hikers on the trails, providing solitude and a more peaceful experience.
Less Chance of Thunderstorms: Unlike summer, fall typically has fewer afternoon thunderstorms, reducing the risk of encountering inclement weather.
Winter (December to April):
Snow Sports: While not suitable for traditional hiking, Freel Peak and the surrounding area become a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. Backcountry skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities during this time.
Winter Wonderland: The landscape takes on a serene and enchanting quality under a blanket of snow, offering a different kind of beauty for those who enjoy snow-covered landscapes.
Where is Freel Peak?
Freel Peak is indeed the tallest peak in the Lake Tahoe region, but it is not located in South Lake Tahoe, California. Instead, it is situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range to the southeast of Lake Tahoe, and it is closer to the town of Meyers, California. The Armstrong Pass Trailhead is one of the popular starting points for hiking Freel Peak, and it provides access to various trails leading to the peak. While South Lake Tahoe is relatively close by, the actual location of Freel Peak is not within the city limits of South Lake Tahoe. While this is a technicality, what you need to know is that the road to the trailhead can require 4x4 during certain times of the year. The road is dirt, often pitted out, and has a gate that closes for the winter.
Directions to trailhead: Armstrong Pass Trailhead
Fun Facts about Freel Peak:
Tallest Peak in Tahoe: Freel Peak is the tallest peak in Lake Tahoe at 10,886 feet above sea level.
Mountain Range: Freel Peak is part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which stretches across California and Nevada and is known for its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes.
Named After: Freel Peak is named after James Freel, an early settler in the area. It's interesting to note that the peak is sometimes misspelled as "Frel Peak."
Snow-Covered Winters: Due to its high elevation, Freel Peak often retains snow well into the spring and even early summer, offering opportunities for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
Hiking Variety: In addition to being a great first 10,000-foot summit, Freel Peak is also a popular destination for snowshoers and backcountry skiers during the winter months.
Wildlife: While hiking Freel Peak, you may come across various wildlife species native to the Sierra Nevada, including mule deer, chipmunks, and various bird species.
Geological Significance: The rock formations and geology of Freel Peak and the surrounding area are fascinating for geology enthusiasts, showcasing the geological history of the region.
Sunrise and Sunset: Hiking Freel Peak during sunrise or sunset can be a magical experience, as the changing light casts different hues on Lake Tahoe and the surrounding landscape.
Stargazing: The clear, high-altitude skies near Freel Peak make it an excellent spot for stargazing and astrophotography on clear nights.
Is there cell service on Freel Peak?
Yes, there is cell service at the summit of Freel Peak. However, it's important to note that you should not expect to have cell service at the trailhead or while hiking along the trail leading to the summit. Cell reception can be quite limited or non-existent in the backcountry areas of the Sierra Nevada, so it's advisable to plan accordingly by informing someone of your plans and expected return time before starting your hike and to carry any necessary offline maps or emergency communication devices if needed.
Can You Backpack to Freel Peak?
Yes, you can backpack to Freel Peak, and it's a stunning experience sleep near the top to watch sunrise in the morning. Also, for outdoor enthusiasts looking to extend their stay in the beautiful Sierra Nevada wilderness, backpacking Freel Peak gives you more time to enjoy the area. Here's some information to help you plan your backpacking trip to Freel Peak:
Overnight Permits: Backpacking in the area typically requires an overnight permit. You can easily obtain these permits online through the appropriate agencies responsible for managing the land. It's essential to check the current permit requirements and regulations, as they can vary depending on the specific trail and jurisdiction.
Camping Options: While it's technically possible to camp on the summit of Freel Peak, most backpackers choose to camp at lower elevations, where it's less windy and more sheltered. There are suitable camping spots along the trails leading to Freel Peak, such as the Armstrong Pass Trail. These sites offer a comfortable and scenic place to spend the night.
Water Availability: One crucial consideration when backpacking to Freel Peak is water availability. There are no reliable water sources along the trail, especially during the dry summer months when temperatures can be hot. It's essential to carry enough water to sustain yourself during your hike and overnight stay. Consider using a water filter or purification method if you plan to collect water from streams or creeks.
Seasonal Considerations: The best time for backpacking to Freel Peak depends on your preferences and tolerance for weather conditions. Summer offers longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures but can be hot, while spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter backpacking is also an option for experienced winter sports enthusiasts.
Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor adventure, practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential when backpacking to Freel Peak. Be sure to pack out all trash, minimize your impact on the environment, and follow established backcountry camping guidelines to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Navigation and Safety: Backpackers should be prepared with appropriate navigation tools, first aid supplies, and knowledge of the trail and terrain. The high-altitude environment can present unique challenges, so it's crucial to be well-prepared and informed about potential hazards.
Backpacking to Freel Peak can provide a more immersive and extended experience in the stunning Sierra Nevada region. Whether you choose to camp near the summit or at lower elevations, careful planning and adherence to outdoor ethics will help ensure a safe and enjoyable backpacking adventure.
Other Great Hikes that are close to Freel Peak:
Finishing the hike to the summit of Freel Peak in Lake Tahoe, California. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Hiking Freel Peak in Lake Tahoe is an adventure that encapsulates the very essence of the Sierra Nevada wilderness. With its towering summit, pristine alpine lakes, and breathtaking vistas, this trail beckons both novice and seasoned hikers to explore its diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Whether you seek the thigh burning euphoria of standing on top of the tallest peak in the Lake Tahoe Basin, or simply yearn for a peaceful escape into nature for an overnight trip, Freel Peak offers an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting imprint.
