Hiking

When hiking in the Lake Tahoe Basin, a topographic map and compass are highly recommended because cellular service may not be available in some areas. Forest maps are always helpful and are available for purchase online.

Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Be prepared with the appropriate clothing, footwear and equipment, no matter how short the hike. Bring water and food to prevent dehydration and exhaustion. If you bring your pet on the trail, put it on a leash to minimize its impact on wildlife and other visitors. Observe common courtesy, follow trail regulations and always clean up after your pet and properly dispose of waste bags.

Permits are required for visits to Desolation Wilderness. Daytime-use permits may be self-issued at most trailheads. Overnight permits require a fee and may be purchased online.

Trail Resources

• Pacific Crest Trail
• Tahoe Rim Trail

Campfires and Fire Restrictions

• National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under year-round fire restrictions. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are only permitted within permanent iron fire rings in developed campgrounds, such as Fallen Leaf or Nevada Beach. Read More
   
• Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are never permitted in Desolation Wilderness or Meiss Country; along the Pacific Crest or Tahoe Rim trails; on National Forest roads, trails or trailheads; in rock fire rings; on National Forest beaches; or in the general forest.
   
• Portable propane stoves that have an on/off switch or valve are allowed with a valid permit as long as enhanced fire restrictions are not in effect.
   
• Enhanced fire restrictions can go into effect during periods of increased fire danger. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) and propane appliances may be restricted.

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Recreation Opportunities

Backpacking (22)

Day Hikes (39)

Hiking (10)

Showing: 1 - 10 of 39 results

Angora Lakes Resort

Site Open

Angora Lakes Resort, located on the south end of Lake Tahoe, is a popular destination during the summer months. A parking fee is required.The hike up to the lake is a bit steep, but the trail is wide…

Angora Ridge

Site Open

Angora Ridge can be accessed seasonally via Forest Road 1214. Take Highway 89 northwest from the City of South Lake Tahoe, turn left on Fallen Leaf Road then just past the green gate turn left on…

Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area

Site Open

This area can be extremely crowded on weekends. Please consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxing experience.Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area is located near…

Big Meadow Trailhead

Site Open

Big Meadow is located in Meiss Country on the south end of the Lake Tahoe Basin. Big Meadow Trailhead serves as an entrance to the Tahoe Rim Trail and boasts breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, Hope…

Blackwood Canyon Campground

Site Open

Blackwood Canyon Campground is located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe near Homewood. This small campground on Barker Pass Road has six sites, metal fire rings and a restroom. The campground is…

Camp Richardson Resort

Site Open

A year-round destination, historic Camp Richardson Resort offers everything wonderful about outdoor recreation at Lake Tahoe in the spring, summer, winter and fall. Warm seasons include biking,…

Camp Shelly

Site Open

Camp Shelly is located near South Lake Tahoe off Highway 89 between Fallen Leaf Lake and Emerald Bay. The campground is centrally located in the whispering pines, allowing visitors to take advantage…

Cascade Falls

The trail starts at the Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area. The round-trip to the falls is not in Desolation Wilderness, so no permit is needed. The trail is public, but Cascade Lake itself is a…

Desolation Wilderness

Desolation Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area consisting of 63,960 acres of sub-alpine and alpine forest, granite peaks, and glacially-formed valleys and lakes. Located southwest of…

Eagle Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead

This area can be extremely crowded on weekends. Please consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxing experience.Eagle Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead is located on…