Lake Aloha in Desolation Wilderness.
Lake Tahoe is made for outdoor enthusiasts, especially in the summer. In fact, it has been a summer vacation destination since 1869 when the transcontinental railroad made it easier to access. This popularity can lead to congestion at popular trailheads and beaches. Several hidden gems are waiting to be discovered by hikers looking for a quieter and more secluded adventure.
Horsetail Falls Trail (3 miles, 600 feet elevation gain): Located in the El Dorado National Forest, Horsetail Falls Trail offers a picturesque hike with stunning views. This moderate-to-challenging trail takes you through granite cliffs and lush forests before reaching a cascading waterfall surrounded by wildflowers and picturesque scenery. The trail is less crowded than other popular Tahoe hikes, providing solitude and tranquility.
Lily Lake Trail (2.1 miles): Designed to connect to the newly built trail system on Angora Ridge, the Lily Lake Trail offers stunning, unmatched views of Desolation Wilderness, Fallen Leaf Lake and Lake Tahoe. The trail was created to reduce traffic on narrow roads and offer new access to hikers and mountain bikers who want a car-free way to enjoy Fallen Leaf Lake, Glen Alpine Springs and Desolation Wilderness. The Lily Lake trail has an elevation change of 800 feet and features mosaic-like rock work, including aspects unique to the Tahoe trail repertoire — slickrock, boulder traverses, and an expansive view of Fallen Leaf Lake on the edge of a 75-foot cliff. The trail connects the Angora Lakes parking area to the Glen Alpine trailhead parking area near Lily Lake.
Spooner Lake Loop Trail (2.4 miles): If you’re looking for a more leisurely hike, the Spooner Lake Loop Trail is perfect for all skill levels and ages. This scenic trail encircles the tranquil Spooner Lake, offering serene views of the surrounding mountains. Explore lush meadows, dense forests, and gentle slopes, providing an ideal setting for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Pack a picnic and take advantage of the picnic areas dotted along the trail.
Lake Aloha Trail (12.5 mile loop): Starting at Echo Lake this trail features wildflowers and is fairly flat. You pass by 5 lakes along the route. You can shorten the hike a little by taking the Echo Lake water taxi. You must fill out a day permit at the trailhead before entering Desolation Wilderness.
From cascading waterfalls and panoramic vistas to serene lakes and tranquil forests, these little-known hikes provide opportunities for solitude and deeper connections with the natural wonders of Lake Tahoe. Step off the beaten path and embark on an adventure that will unveil the lesser-known treasures of this picturesque destination. Remember to always prepare adequately, stay on designated trails, and leave no trace to preserve these hidden gems for future hikers to enjoy.
Tips:
Bring adequate water or a water filtration system.
Pack Bug Spray, mosquitos can be fierce.
Wear layers, weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so be prepared for temperature drops and thunderstorms.
Don’t forget the sunscreen. At altitude, UV exposure is significantly greater than at sea level.
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