10 Best Hiking Trails Near Lake Tahoe, USA

1. Mount Tallac Trail

Mount Tallac Trail is located near South Lake Tahoe. It is an out and back trail with an elevation gain of up to 1,003 meters (about 3290 feet). Because Mount Tallac Trail is difficult to hike, a wilderness permit is required, which can be obtained at the trailhead for a small fee. Reaching the summit can be a very rewarding experience because of the stunning view that awaits the trail’s brave trekkers, making its difficulty level brave-worthy.

Mount Tallac Trail

Address: California 96150, USA

Opening hours: 8am - 4.30pm (daily)

2. Glen Alpine Trail to Aloha Lake Hiking Trail

Glen Alpine Trail to Aloha Lake Hiking Trail is an intermediate trail. The 19.2-kilometer (12 miles) out and back hiking trail take one full day to complete. It is a relatively easy terrain to trek, and is great for people who are new to hiking; its elevation gain is up to 2,476 meters (8123 feet). If you feel like stopping by Lake Aloha for a picnic or to simply enjoy its crystal clear waters and the stunning scenery, then, by all means, do so. It’s going to be great!

Glen Alpine Trail to Aloha Lake Hiking Trail

Address: California 96150, USA

3. Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake Trail

If you’re looking for a trail that isn’t too hard, the Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake Trail is for you. A hike from the beautiful falls to Eagle Lake takes about 30 minutes to be completed, and while walking, you will be blown away by the stunning landscape adorned by the lush greenery. The falls itself is a thing of fascination, not to mention the view of the tall granite rock formations. This 2.9-kilometer (1.8 miles) out and back trail has an elevation gain of 132 meters (about 433 feet), and is great for a picnic or for simply appreciating the work of nature, perfect when you’re alone or you’re with your family.

Eagle Falls & Eagle Lake Trail

Address: 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States

4. Fallen Leaf Lake Trail

Fallen Leaf Lake Trail is a 13-kilometer (8 miles) out and back hiking trail, with an elevation gain of 122 meters (400 feet). It is located in the southern part of Lake Tahoe. While the trail is technically a road, you’ll have many opportunities to go off-road to visit the wonderful views near the path. Even if you’ll be trekking a road, some parts are not that smooth, so it’s best to wear durable shoes. Also, there are several hiking trails near this path, so if you feel like exploring off the beaten spots, you can do so, but be cautious, because not all of them are properly marked.

Fallen Leaf Lake Trail

Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States

5. Spooner to Marlette Lake

Spooner to Marlette Lake is a 16.4-kilometer (10.2 miles) out and back hiking trail, with an elevation gain of 535 meters (1755 feet). This is a moderately difficult trail to take, but the beautiful flowers make the trail’s difficulty worthy of conquering. The best time to visit this trail is during fall because of the beautiful color of leaves during this season. Because the trail doesn’t have much shade, it’s best to bring sunscreen or any other equipment to protect you from the heat of the sun. Dogs are allowed, however, they must be properly leashed.

Spooner to Marlette Lake

Address: Carson City, NV 89703, USA

6. Echo Lakes to Ralston Lake

Echo Lakes to Ralston Lake is 5.3-kilometer (about 3 miles) out and back trail that sits near South Lake Tahoe. This easy trail is best for people who appreciate nature because of the many opportunities it offer. You can go bird-watching and immerse in the natural beauty of the forest here. The elevation gain of 155 meters (511 feet) is moderately tiring, but the scenery will make each and every visitor’s effort worth it. The best time to explore this trail is between April and October, and, yes, you can bring your leashed friend with you.

Echo Lakes to Ralston Lake

Address: Johnson Pass Road, NV

7. Lola Montez Lake Trail

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Lola Montez Lakes Trail is a 6.3-mile (10-kilometer) out and back hiking trail. Because it is a moderately-trafficked trail, it is ideal for people who are new to hiking, and for people who want a casual experience with Mother Nature. There are several ways to enjoy the lake, such as fishing, swimming, or simply adoring its crystal clear water from afar. The elevation gain of Lola Montez Lake Trail is about 300 meters (984 feet).

Lola Montez Lake Trail

Address: California 96161, USA

8. Cascade Falls Trail

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Cascade Falls Trail is a 2.3-kilometer (1.4-mile) out and back hiking trail, with an elevation gain of up to 78 meters (about 755 feet). The famed hiking trail is situated near Tahoma, Cascade Falls will give hikers a bit of a challenge due to its moderately-difficult tracks, and rocks and boulders that will test your mettle. But all the difficulty will be forgotten, as soon as you see the stunning views when you reach the high grounds, on the granite rock outcroppings. The best time to visit Cascade Falls trail is between May and September, and yes, you may bring your faithful dog with you as long as it is on a leash.

Cascade Falls Trail

Address: California 96150, USA

9. Tahoe Rim Trail

Tahoe Rim Trail is one of the most difficult trails near Lake Tahoe. This 169.3-mile (272 kilometers) loop trail is situated near Incline Village-Crystal Bay. Proper preparation is needed before taking on this path; it takes 13 days to complete this route. Also, the elevation gain reach 8508 meters (27,916 feet). Though some parts of the trail can be traveled using a mountain bike, there are parts that are too dangerous to bike. If you feel like you need a pro to accompany you, you can arrange for a guided hike at The Tahoe Rim Trail Association.

Tahoe Rim Trail

Address: Lake Tahoe, United States

Website: Tahoe Rim Trail

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4.30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

10. Rubicon Trail

Rubicon Trail is a 26.4-kilometer (about 16 miles) out and back trail that is located near Tahoma. The nearby lake is a great spot to be if you’re fond of different plant species; there are several for you to see here, such as leopard lily, yellow monkey, bleeding heart, and nightshade. Rubicon Trail also offers different types of terrain, adding to the fun of hiking. This moderate trail has an elevation gain of 703 meters (239 feet).

Rubicon Trail

Address: South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, USA

Explore more trails near Lake Tahoe

Of course, these are many great trails that you should explore when you get to these parts of America, but don’t get lost in your search and definitely visit these best hiking trails near Lake Tahoe, USA.