Mt. Tallac Trailhead

Mt. Tallac Trailhead is located approximately three and a half miles northwest of the City of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. Look for the Mt. Tallac Trailhead sign directly across from the entrance to Baldwin Beach. Turn left down the dirt road and continue to the trailhead parking. Providing a spectacular view of Fallen Leaf Lake, Lake Tahoe, and Desolation Wilderness, this strenuous hike is well worth the effort. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Sierra mountains; bring a jacket, carry lots of water and allow plenty of time for your trip.

These trails are not designed to be handicapped accessible. The first part of the trail to Floating Island and Cathedral Lakes is easy to moderate and can be enjoyed by the novice hiker. Beyond Cathedral Lake, the trail becomes steep and strenuous as it continues up the front face of Mt. Tallac.

There are three main trails:
1. Floating Island Lake – one-way mileage is 1.7 miles. Difficulty level is easy to moderate.
2. Cathedral Lake – one-way mileage is 2.5 miles. Difficulty level is easy to moderate.
3. Mount Tallac – one-way mileage is 5 miles. Difficulty level is difficult.