Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and sits in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains on the California-Nevada border. Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake and is a popular spot for visitors all over the world.
I’ve worked as a camping and hiking guide in the Sierra Nevada for the past four years and have guided hiking trips throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin. With roaring waterfalls, wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and panoramic views all around, hiking in Lake Tahoe is a truly incredible experience.
These are some of the best hikes in Lake Tahoe that I’ve had the opportunity to explore!
When to Go Hiking in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a very popular tourist destination year-round. With snow activities from winter to late spring and summertime activities from the late spring to fall, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area. Hiking in Lake Tahoe is possible most months if you have the proper gear!
Spring
As someone who has been to Tahoe during every season, I definitely think spring is the best time to visit because of the fair weather and smaller crowds; however, it is also the most variable. Depending on how much it snowed that year, you may run into a lot of snowpack still on the trails in April and May. Come prepared with the right gear and research trails before you go to ensure it’s accessible!
Whether the trails are snowy or dry when you’re there, you’ll still see snow on the high mountains! Also, waterfalls and rivers are flowing at their highest in the spring!
There is a variety of trails that are easily accessible for hiking in the spring, but I’d recommend going to the ones at lower elevations if you don’t have any snow hiking experience.
Summer
Summer is the warmest season for hiking in Tahoe. By mid-summer, you should be able to access almost all of the trails free of snow. It’s a great time to get up to the higher peaks at cooler temperatures or to enjoy the coastal walks along Lake Tahoe where you can hop in or take a dip.
The alpine lakes around Lake Tahoe are also wonderful spots for a picnic lunch and a jump into the lakes (be aware, the lakes are still pretty chilly even in summer)! As summer goes on, more and more wildflowers start popping up in the area! From mid-May until the end of August you’re sure to pass some beautiful flowers on the trail, so be on the lookout.
Fall
Fall in Lake Tahoe is arguable the prettiest season because the Aspen trees change from bright green to yellow and orange….
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