Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area

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 Emerald Bay on the south shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe. The trailhead is located in a shaded area at approximately 7,100 feet in elevation. Opening and closing dates are dependent on weather, but the area is typically open from mid-May through mid-October. Bayview serves as a trailhead for Desolation Wilderness.

Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are not permitted.

Current Conditions

Seasonal Parking; No Restrooms/Trash Service in Winter; Campfires (wood, charcoal or other solid fuels) are not permitted at the Trailhead nor in Desolation Wilderness; No Camping or Overnighting at the Trailhead

Reservations

General Information

Restrooms are available when the parking area is open.

Late Spring, Summer, Early Fall

Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are not permitted.
A wilderness permit is required to enter Desolation Wilderness.
Day hikers may pick up day-use permits at the self-serve kiosk.
Overnight hikers must obtain an overnight permit before arriving.
Bear canisters (hard-sided) are required for all overnight visits.
No camping or overnighting at the trailhead.
Lake Tahoe is Bear Country. Before heading out on the trail, remove all scented items from vehicles and be sure to lock vehicle doors and windows. Learn more about coexisting with bears at TahoeBears.Org.

Pets should be kept on leash.

Contact Name: Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

Contact Phone: 530-543-2600 or visit https://nfs.fs2c.usda.gov/r05/laketahoebasin

Address: 35 College Drive South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Phone: (530) 543-2600
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 38.94526627

Longitude: -120.0990406

Directions

Take Highway 89 northwest from South Lake Tahoe approximately eight miles to the Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use area located across the highway from Inspiration Point.