On the shores and mountains where the shimmering blue waters and turquoise bays embrace your soul, you will also find the most amazing hiking trails in Lake Tahoe ever. These adventurous trails lead to peaks, waterfalls, inland lakes, meadows, and lookouts. During the spring season, the snow-covered peaks emerge to be easily seen on the horizon, which is why it is the best time to plan a hiking trip. Hikes running along the lake offer wonderful landscapes, with little elevation gain and level terrain. These are top picks with families. However, for those hoping to achieve new heights, strenuous summit trails offer stunning panoramic views. Here’s a list of three such challenging trails you can try out this spring.
Granite Lake and South Maggie's Peak
In this trail you have the option to do an easy or a relatively difficult hike up to Granite Lake. Since it lies at the base of Maggie’s Peaks, the entire hike is only a two-mile round-trip with almost 900 feet elevation gain. It is a peaceful and scenic spot to relax and contemplate on life. However, if you want to explore more, you could hike all the way up to the top of South Maggie’s Peak, that gives an elevation gain of 1,900 feet. The views of Lake Tahoe from up there are breathtaking. Keep in mind that the trail to the top is really demanding and steep. It will add another mile round-trip to your entire hike. To get the introduction to the Desolation Wilderness area, you will require a permit, which is easily available at the trailhead.
Mt. Rose
It might bewilder and excite you to learn that the big, beautiful, and formidable, Mt. Rose is the third highest peak in the Lake Tahoe basin, with an elevation of 10,776 feet above sea level. The total hike will be a 12-mile round-trip, with lovely scenic views on the way. You’ll come across a little oasis with lush, wildflower-covered meadows of the Tahoe basin. Eventually, the trail will lead you to Mount Rose Wilderness, after which you will pass several small steams, which will lead you to the steep trek to Mount Rose. Depending upon the number of steps you take, the hike will be of 4 to 9 hours. Considering the level of difficulty, make sure that you bring plenty of water, food, and sunscreen along. To get to the start of the trail, take Highway 431 (Mount Rose Highway) north of Incline Village. Park at the trailhead located one mile south of the summit.
Mt. Tallac
For experienced hikers looking for something more challenging, Mt. Tallac is the best option. It is an adventurous and strenuous trek of 3,200 feet to the summit. Trails are forested up until the tree line cuts away, dispersed with meadows of wildflowers, abundantly flowing creeks, pristine lakes, and incomparable views. What makes this a tad bit easier is that the trail to Floating Island Lake is well-marked. Remember to bring lots of water, food, sunscreen, and bug repellent. This would be a six-hour hike, so be prepared. The trailhead is approximately 3.5 miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. Look for the Mt. Tallac Trailhead sign directly across from the Baldwin Beach entrance, turn left down the dirt road, and continue to the Trailhead parking. Here, too, you will need a permit to venture into Desolation Wilderness, which you will find at the trailhead.
While hiking can seem exciting, remember that you shouldn’t bite off more hike than you can chew. Go easy on yourself if it seems too difficult. Do not underestimate the hiking trails of El Dorado County, California. All the best!
Author’s Bio: The author is an avid blogger and this article is about the hiking trails of El Dorado County, California.
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Miley Munroe Joined: August 9th, 2017 Articles Posted: 64
