ActivitiesHiking
Trails run from lakeside strolls to demanding alpine ascents. The Tahoe Rim Trail circles the whole basin in 165 miles, and Desolation Wilderness adds 63,000 acres of backcountry.
Lakeside trails open up in spring. Trails above 7,000 feet can hold snow through May and are usually clear from June to October.
Go with a guide. Walk the basin with a local guide, on a trail matched to your group and the season.
Guided hikeStateline Lookout is the north shore's best bang-for-effort hike — 1.5 miles round-trip to panoramic basin views. The TRT segment from Tahoe City north offers more serious mileage.
The Flume Trail is the east shore's crown jewel — hike or ride the ridge 1,600 feet above the lake. Combine it with a descent to Spooner Lake for a full day.
Mt. Tallac is the south shore's defining hike — 9.4 miles, 3,295 ft gain, and views across the entire basin from 9,735 ft. Start by 7am and bring layers.
Start the Rubicon Trail from D.L. Bliss before 8am — the cliff-edge views are best in morning light and parking fills fast. Eagle Falls is the most rewarding short hike on the west shore.
North shore access point for the Tahoe Rim Trail. Connects to Burton Creek State Park and north-shore ridge walks with lake views.
Roadside trailhead on Hwy 267 offering immediate access to TRT ridgeline with dramatic lake views in both directions.
Gateway to the legendary Flume Trail — one of the best mountain bike rides in North America. Hike or ride the ridge above Tahoe's east shore.
Southern TRT access point also connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail. Starting point for multi-day Echo Lake to Tahoe City routes.
Most popular Desolation Wilderness entry point. Day-use and overnight permits required. Leads to Gilmore, Susie, Half Moon, and Alta Morris Lakes.
Classic Desolation Wilderness gateway. Take the seasonal water taxi across Echo Lake to save 2 miles. Connects to PCT and Lake Aloha loop.