On a weekend, getting a parking spot is a matter of luck. The main problem with this hike is parking, which is extremely limited, considering the number of people who visit this area. The round-trip hike to Eagle Lake is approximately 2.5 miles. On a hot day, you can wade in to cool off. The water is crystal clear, and the shoreline is shallow. This glacier-formed lake lies at the base of surrounding mountains, which reflect the mirror image in the calm waters.

The hike to Eagle Lake is a steady climb, ascending just over 400 feet in elevation in the span of a little less than a mile, but the reward is worth the effort. This is one of the most popular hikes on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe and frequently busy, but it's definitely worth doing if you can find parking.Įagle Falls is essentially right off the highway, requiring only a short stroll to reach the edge of the falls. A good choice is the scenic trail to Eagle Lake. The Eagle Lake Trail, beginning at the spectacular Eagle Falls, has several options for trail length. Most people choose to turn around at Vikingsholm and hike back to D.L. Or, you can continue onwards to Eagle Point. If you choose to end your hike here (and have a shuttle arranged), just follow the trail up to the highway above. The interior has been preserved, and tours are available in the summer. The impressive stone building dating from 1929 is Scandinavian in design. In addition to the beautiful surroundings, you'll also come across the historic Vikingsholm mansion. Bliss, but it's not particularly expensive and on a busy day, when it's difficult to find a parking spot in other locations, this may be a better option. Bliss State Park to Eagle Point, but this direction has a slight elevation gain. If you are only doing this trail in one direction and shuttling, the views are a bit better heading from D. The direction of travel doesn't really matter. The trail hugs a ridge high above the water for much of the way and provides exceptional scenery for relatively little effort. Bliss State Park to Eagle Point on Emerald Bay, the Rubicon Trail offers spectacular views of the cobalt blue lake the distant mountains and the shallow, aquamarine-colored bays. Running alongside and above the shore of Lake Tahoe from D.L. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues.

See also: Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe For hikers looking to reach new heights, challenging summit trails offer jaw-dropping panoramic views.įor a little peace and quiet, away from the large crowds, the Desolation Wilderness, just inland from Lake Tahoe, offers a mix of trails that take hikers into the rugged backcountry.įind the right trail for you with our list of the best hikes at Lake Tahoe. Hikes running along the lake offer beautiful scenery, with little elevation gain and level terrain. Many of the best hikes are found on the southwest shore, near the city of South Lake Tahoe. In the spring, the snowcapped peaks stand out sharply on the horizon in the summer, the wildflowers light up the trails and in the fall, the leaves glow a brilliant yellow, contrasting with the deep green of the pines. Views over the shimmering lake below on a sunny day are astounding. On the shores and mountains that ring the sparkling blue waters and turquoise bays of Lake Tahoe, hiking trails lead to peaks, waterfalls, inland lakes, meadows, and lookouts. We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Fallen leaf waterfall