Living Happily Ever After at Lake Tahoe
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Hiking is a summer pastime in the Tahoe region, and every year locals and visitors flock to the trails for adventure, solitude and the chance to take in the majestic alpine views. Hiking in the Tahoe region feels like being in a postcard with expansive views of the sparkling blue lake, towering pines, surrounding alpine peaks and abundant wildlife.
We have all heard of the South Lake Tahoe classics: Vikingsholm, Eagle Falls, Maggies Peaks, Rubicon Trail and the mighty Mount Tallac that tops every hiking enthusiast’s bucket list. And although I highly encourage seeing these iconic spots and experiencing the essential Lake Tahoe hikes, I also am a strong advocate for exploring lesser-known and locally loved places and escaping the high-season crowds and traffic.
When people think of hiking in the backcountry, they often get discouraged because they believe these tranquil destinations require a lot of time, effort and gear. While that is true for some trails, there are a large number of trails in the region that are accessible for all levels to enjoy and complete in a half-day or day.
I have created a list of five hikes outside of South Lake that I believe will be a great addition to begin your backcountry journey. Hopefully, this list will inspire you to explore more of our stunning region. I chose these hikes with hiking levels and stunning views in mind (think alpine lakes, waterfalls and wildflowers). Make sure to bring your camera, create amazing memories and leave no trace!
Head to Winnemucca Lake in the early summer months to view an assortment of wildflowers. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
1. Winnemucca Lake
Winnemucca Lake might just be one of my favorite half-day hikes in the South Lake Tahoe region, especially when the various species of wildflowers are in full bloom and on display throughout the trail. If you go in the early summer months, you will be delighted with a colorful blanket of lupines, paintbrush, monkey flowers, shooting stars and more. I highly recommend bringing your camera for this one!
The trailhead for this hike is right at the Carson Pass Information Station parking lot near Kirkwood. You will need a day pass permit to park here, which can easily be obtained online or on-site.
This trail is stunning from the start and begins by taking you through a forested area with ample amounts of shade. However, most of this hike is exposed so prepare for lots of sunshine. You will pass Frog Lake, which can be a nice side quest or break in its own right. Continuing on, the forest gives way to expansive meadows as you make your way uphill, passing through various species of flora. As you continue along the trail, you will be surrounded by expansive, panoramic views of notable landmarks including Elephants Back, Round Top and Caples Lake.
Seeing Winnemucca Lake for the first time is a delight, especially in the early summer months after it has recently thawed and is a beautiful shade of cobalt blue (or a bit more turquoise if you go during golden hour). The views at the lake are incredible, with Round Top looming above. Try to go to different vantage points around the lake for various photo opportunities. If you're feeling brave and want to cool off, I highly recommend going for a refreshing swim!
After you're done at the lakeshore, you will head back to your car using the same trail you hiked in. If you have time, I recommend exploring some other beautiful and easily accessible sites in the region, such as Caples Lake, Silver Lake and Hope Valley.
Total Miles: 5 miles, out and back
Elevation Gain: 640 feet
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Trailhead: Carson Pass, Mokelumne Wilderness
Fee: $5 day pass/Carson Pass Sno-Park parking
2. Glen Alpine Trail via Lily Lake
In the stunning Echo Lakes region, this hike features waterfalls, expansive mountain views and chances to see wildlife. The best time to catch the waterfalls at their highest levels is in the beginning of the summer, as the snow is still melting and the water levels are at their highest volume. Beginning at the Lily Lake trailhead, this trail network gives a wide variety of options to create your adventure. You can make your way directly to the upper and lower waterfalls, exploring the beauty of Desolation Wilderness. Or you can take a short trek to Grass Lake. You can also head to Lake Aloha or opt for Gilmore Lakes. The possibilities are endless, and each option comes with incredible backcountry views and a great workout!
As this trailhead is one of the more popular and easier backcountry trail networks, parking can get crowded in the high season. I highly recommend arriving early not only to ensure parking, but also to give yourself adequate time should you decide to explore multiple trails and destinations. I like to stay at certain locations for a longer period of time for swimming, lunch or just taking it all in, so an early start will give plenty of time before the sun starts to set.
This trail is dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash, and you must bring waste bags. Remember, leave no trace applies to our four-legged friends, too!
Note: If you want to see the Glen Alpine Falls but are very short on time, you may also access them via Fallen Leaf Lake. This option offers a very short walk to the base of the falls without the effort of the backside trails.
Total Miles: Approx. 6.8 miles, out and back (depending on your routes)
Elevation Gain: Approx. 1.3k (depending)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Lily Lake
Permit: Day pass obtained at the trailhead
Be sure to take a small detour to this viewpoint on the Bayview Trail! Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
3. Bayview Trail to Velma Lakes (optional Maggies Peaks detour)
Do you want to experience the magic of hiking in the Emerald Bay region while escaping the notorious Eagle Lake crowds? Get a beautiful, challenging and easily accessible introduction to Desolation Wilderness with this stunning hike to Velma Lakes, with options to detour to the jaw-dropping Maggies Peaks lookouts.
You will feel worlds away but comfortable knowing you are still close to civilization with this half-day hiking trail. Begin at the Bayview Trailhead (I know I'm a broken record but get there early), and head toward Granite Lake. There is an option to continue to a viewpoint directly above Emerald Bay, which I highly recommend. You will find this when you reach a spot with towering boulders and a view of the lake. Continue moving forward (the official trail will go left and uphill) and make a stop for photos and snacks.
Make your way to Granite Lake and head up the switchbacks (these can sometimes be a bit difficult to locate and end up in a create-your-own-adventure hike so be mindful of the official trail; it helps to have a GPS or All Trails). Once up the saddle, you will have access to beautiful panoramic alpine and lake views. You can make a quick detour here to Maggies Peaks lookouts (I highly recommend this) to see views of Emerald Bay and South Lake Tahoe below.
From the saddle, continue on the trail leading to Velma Lakes, which leads to the backside of the Eagle Lake Trail should you want to extend your hike. Velma Lakes are also ideal for camping, so that is a great option if you want to go beyond a day trip. You will need a campsite permit for this, which must be booked in advance.
Swimming at the lakes is a great way to cool off after a hot day of hiking, so I recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel. As weather can change quickly out there, bring extra layers. I have been surprisingly caught in the rain and thunder and lightning storms! It all makes a great story at the end!
Total Miles: Approx. 10.6 miles, out and back (additional miles to Maggies Peaks and Eagle Lake)
Elevation Gain: 2.4k feet (additional vert if you add Maggies Peaks)
Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging
Trailhead: Bayview Trail (Emerald Bay near Inspiration Point)
Permit: Day pass obtained at the trailhead
4. Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake
Experience hiking part of the famed Tahoe Rim Trail on this stunning hike to lesser-known Dardanelles Lake. This hike offers solitude, scenic views and a sparkling alpine lake to cool off and enjoy rest and relaxation after a moderately challenging route.
From the Big Meadow Trailhead, where there are parking spots and public restrooms, you will begin your trek via the Tahoe Rim Trail. You will have to cross Highway 89, so be very careful as cars tend to go fast! If you have a dog, keep it on a leash.
Follow the trail through forests and expansive meadows until you come up to Dardanelles Lake. In the early summer season, you are very likely to see colorful species of wildflowers along the trail, so make sure to bring your camera! Also be aware that you will have to cross a creek, which has higher levels in the early summer, so bring proper footwear and hiking poles to help assist you.
Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the hike and lake in its entirety. It's a great spot to disconnect and enjoy the solitude of the South Lake backcountry. If you have extra time and want to explore an additional lake, there is an option for a detour to Round Lake.
Total Miles: 7.2 miles, out and back
Elevation Gain: 1.4k feet
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Trailhead: Big Meadow Trailhead
Permit: Day use permit obtained at trailhead
Experience solitude on the trail and high-altitude swimming at Lake Aloha. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
5. Lake Aloha via Echo Lakes
Lake Aloha is one of the quintessential backcountry experiences in the South Lake Tahoe backcountry, and if you only have time for one hike, this is the one I will recommend. Allow a full day to completely immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of everything Desolation Wilderness has to offer: towering mountain views, sparkling blue alpine lakes, wildflower sightings, wildlife, abundant sunshine and fresh air. And hike part of the famed PCT!
You will begin at Echo Lakes, and depending on the season, you might have the opportunity to cut off a few miles by taking a water taxi to the trailhead at the end of the lakes. Once you have reached the lakeshore by boat or on foot, you will make your way uphill to a stunning lookout above Echo Lakes. Definitely bring your camera!
Keep following the trail, which overall is relatively flat (most of the challenges people face on this hike are mileage or not having adequate water and food). You have a few options to make detours to other lakes, such as Lake of the Woods. If you have time, it makes for a really fun day!
There are also options to camp at Lake Aloha, which requires a campsite permit. Many people use this trail for backpacking and even through-hiking, so prepare to meet some very interesting new friends!
As with all other alpine lakes in the region, I recommend taking a dip here. It is so refreshing! Bring a swimsuit, towel and layers! I have been caught out here in surprise hail later in the afternoon, so an early morning start is ideal for conditions and parking.
This lake is one of the most picturesque in the region, so take it all in, leave no trace and make the best memories!
Total Miles: Approx 12.4 miles (depending on detours), out and back
Elevation Gain: 1.9k feet
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Trailhead: Echo Lakes
Tips to make your backcountry experience more enjoyable:
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Leave early! Summer in Tahoe is extremely busy, even in the backcountry. Plan for an early wake-up call to ensure parking and ample time to hike in the sunlight. This is especially true on the weekends! If you can’t make an early hike, opt for a beautiful late-afternoon hike to catch golden hour or a sunset. Make sure you are prepared to hike back at dusk or in the dark. I highly recommend bringing a headlamp, layers and bear spray!
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Come prepared. Make sure you have a checklist of the essentials, such as an adequate amount of water, meals and snacks, SPF, sunglasses, a hat, battery chargers, proper footwear and layers, GPS and bear spray.
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Make sure you have the necessary permits for the trail or parking lot. For the Carson Pass area, you can obtain them here.
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Leave no trace. The Tahoe region is an extremely fragile ecosystem. Always pack out what you packed in. Bonus points if you pick up trash you find on the trail!
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Leave no trace goes for noise pollution too! Be kind and courteous when you share the trail with others and keep music to a minimum.
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And, of course, have fun!
About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content. 
