ActivitiesBackpackingTop 3

Top 3 backpacking trips around Lake Tahoe

Three places to start with, picked from the 6 in our backpacking guide. Open a box for the details.

  1. Number 1: Glen Alpine TrailheadSouth ShoreThe most popular way into Desolation Wilderness, for Gilmore and Susie Lakes.
    • Most popular Desolation entry
    • Permit required
    • Gilmore & Susie Lakes

    Day-use & overnight permit required

    Full detailsSee its pin on the mapMore on recreation.gov (opens in a new tab)

  2. Number 2: Echo Lake TrailheadSouth ShoreStart at the Pacific Crest Trail junction for Lake Aloha, with a water taxi to shorten the walk.
    • PCT junction
    • Water taxi option
    • Lake Aloha

    Overnight permit required

    Full detailsSee its pin on the mapMore on recreation.gov (opens in a new tab)

  3. Number 3: Spooner BackcountryEast ShoreNo permit needed: three primitive camps above the east shore.
    • NO permit required
    • 3 primitive camps
    • Flume Trail access

    No permit — first-come

    Full detailsSee its pin on the mapMore on parks.nv.gov (opens in a new tab)

See all 6 placesOpen the backpacking map