Hiking

When hiking in the Lake Tahoe Basin, a topographic map and compass are highly recommended because cellular service may not be available in some areas. Forest maps are always helpful and are available for purchase online.

Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Be prepared with the appropriate clothing, footwear and equipment, no matter how short the hike. Bring water and food to prevent dehydration and exhaustion. If you bring your pet on the trail, put it on a leash to minimize its impact on wildlife and other visitors. Observe common courtesy, follow trail regulations and always clean up after your pet and properly dispose of waste bags.

Permits are required for visits to Desolation Wilderness. Daytime-use permits may be self-issued at most trailheads. Overnight permits require a fee and may be purchased online.

Trail Resources

• Pacific Crest Trail
• Tahoe Rim Trail

Campfires and Fire Restrictions

• National Forest System lands in the Lake Tahoe Basin are under year-round fire restrictions. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are only permitted within permanent iron fire rings in developed campgrounds, such as Fallen Leaf or Nevada Beach. Read More
   
• Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are never permitted in Desolation Wilderness or Meiss Country; along the Pacific Crest or Tahoe Rim trails; on National Forest roads, trails or trailheads; in rock fire rings; on National Forest beaches; or in the general forest.
   
• Portable propane stoves that have an on/off switch or valve are allowed with a valid permit as long as enhanced fire restrictions are not in effect.
   
• Enhanced fire restrictions can go into effect during periods of increased fire danger. This means campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) and propane appliances may be restricted.

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Recreation Opportunities

Backpacking (24)

Day Hikes (42)

Hiking (12)

Showing: 11 - 20 of 42 results

Echo Chalet

Site Closed

This area can be extremely crowded on weekends. Please consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxing experience.Echo Chalet is a high-Sierra, summer-only, resort…

Echo Lakes Trailhead - PCT Access

This area can be extremely crowded on weekends. Please consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxing experience.Echo Lakes Trailhead is located on Echo Summit near the…

Fallen Leaf Campground

Site Closed

Fallen Leaf Campground is located on the south end of beautiful Lake Tahoe, approximately one-quarter mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake off of Highway 89. The campground is typically open beginning in…

Genoa Peak Road 14N32

Site Closed

Genoa Peak Road (Forest Road 14N32) is located on national forest lands on the east shore of Lake Tahoe and is typically accessible beginning Memorial Day through Nov. 15, conditions and weather…

Glen Alpine Trailhead

Glen Alpine Trailhead is located on the south end of the Lake Tahoe Basin near South Lake Tahoe, and serves as an entry point for Desolation Wilderness. From South Lake Tahoe, take Highway 89 north…

Granite Chief Wilderness

In 1984, the Granite Chief Wilderness became a designated wilderness area under the Wilderness Act of 1964 because of its pristine nature, natural beauty, and primitive, non-motorized recreational…

High Meadows Trailhead

High Meadows Trailhead is located on the southeast end of Lake Tahoe near the City of South Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain Resort. Access the trailhead via High Meadows Road.

Kaspian Campground

Site Closed

Kaspian Campground is located on National Forest lands four miles south of Tahoe City, on Highway 89. The campground is operated under a special use permit by Tahoe Recreation, a Division of Vista…

Kiva Picnic Area

Site Closed

Kiva picnic area is on the south shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe on Highway 89 three miles northwest of the City of South Lake Tahoe. Nestled among native pine trees, Kiva picnic area offers a quiet…

Lake Tahoe - East Shore

The east shore of Lake Tahoe is located on the Nevada side along the west slope of the Carson Range. Access to this mostly undeveloped side of the lake is via Highways 50 and 28. Recreational…