The 3 Best Hiking Trails Around The Lake Tahoe Region

Hiking trails offer some of the most rewarding ways to experience Lake Tahoe's forests, alpine lakes and panoramic mountain views. Whether seeking a leisurely walk, a challenging summit climb or a multi-day backcountry adventure, outdoor enthusiasts can find routes suited to a wide range of abilities and interests. The Best of Tahoe showcases trails that highlight the region's natural beauty while providing memorable experiences for hikers throughout the seasons.

Tahoe Rim Trail

The Tahoe Rim Trail is a continuous 165- to 170-mile loop that circles the Lake Tahoe Basin through California and Nevada, crossing three national forests and three wilderness areas. Open to hikers, trail runners, equestrians and cross-country skiers, the trail also allows mountain biking on approximately half of its route while prohibiting motorized recreation. It shares about 50 miles with the Pacific Crest Trail, includes additional connector trails, and requires a wilderness permit for travel through the Desolation Wilderness section.

Van Sickle Bi-State Park

Van Sickle Bi-State Park spans more than 725 acres across the California-Nevada border and features easy to moderate trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The park includes the Daggett Summit Spur, which connects directly to the Tahoe Rim Trail, along with historic ranch buildings that preserve the area's heritage. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, the park also becomes a destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during the winter months.

Mt. Tallac Trailhead

Mt. Tallac Trailhead provides access to the Mt. Tallac Summit Trail as well as routes to Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake within the Desolation Wilderness. The strenuous summit hike covers 10 miles round trip with more than 3,300 feet of elevation gain to the 9,735-foot peak overlooking Lake Tahoe. Hikers must obtain a Desolation Wilderness permit, while dogs are permitted under owner control and campfires are prohibited year-round.

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