PLACERVILLE, Ca. (InEDC) Jasmine Vieau, July 13, 2023
Many of us are looking for ways to connect with nature and explore the great outdoors. One of the best ways to do this is by hiking, and Northern California is home to some epic trails. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of the best hikes in Northern California. These trails have been highly rated by fellow hikers and offer some of the most stunning scenery in the region. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, add these top-rated hiking trails to your bucket list. Happy trails!
Mount Tallac Trail
- Location: South Lake Tahoe
- Mileage: 10.1-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This hiking area is popular for hiking and snowshoeing, so expect to see other people. The best times to visit are May through October. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.
Mount Tallac is a famous day hike in Tahoe that offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe from its summit at 9,735 feet above sea level. You’ll start at the Tallac Trailhead parking lot, about a mile from Highway 89 across from Baldwin Beach. The trail begins with a gradual climb along a ridgeline that provides fantastic views of Fallen Leaf Lake. Along the way, you’ll come across two alpine lakes: Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake. Once you pass Cathedral Lake, the trail becomes steeper and rockier as you exit the treeline. From here, you’ll see Gilmore Lake and the summit of Tallac.
As you near the top, don’t forget to appreciate the magnificent views of Emerald Bay and South Lake Tahoe. These views are unparalleled in Tahoe. Mount Tallac is also a popular winter route for backcountry skiers and snowshoers. However, be careful of avalanches and avoid hiking alone.
Eagle Lake Trail
- Location: South Lake Tahoe
- Mileage: 1.9-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This is a popular hiking area, so expect others to be around. Best times to visit are May through October. Dogs welcome on leash.
The Eagle Falls Trail is an excellent place for the whole family to explore. You’ll find waterfalls, creeks, lakes, granite peaks, and lush vegetation here. After getting your permit at the trailhead, head southwest and climb some stone steps to see the falls. If you’re going to the lake, follow the route uphill for about half a mile until you reach a fork. Take the right trail to the lake, where you can swim or enjoy the views.
Eagle Lake Trail, California 96150, USA
Tahoe Rim Trail to Picnic Rock Viewpoint
- Location: Kings Beach
- Mileage: 3.1-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This hiking area is popular and often busy. The trail is open year-round and beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
If you’re looking for a short and sweet hike in the Tahoe area with epic views of Lake Tahoe and surrounding peaks, this trail is a must-do. The trailhead is located up the hill from Northstar, between Truckee and Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe. The trail is a smooth single track that can be extended into a longer hike if desired by staying on the Rim Trail. If you’re just interested in the viewpoint, keep an eye out for a tree with an arrow-shaped sign reading “Picnic Rock Lake View” about a mile in. There is no water source along the trail, but you’ll find some shade to keep you cool on warmer days.
PLACERVILLE, Ca. (InEDC) Jasmine Vieau, July 13, 2023
Many of us are looking for ways to connect with nature and explore the great outdoors. One of the best ways to do this is by hiking, and Northern California is home to some epic trails. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of the best hikes in Northern California. These trails have been highly rated by fellow hikers and offer some of the most stunning scenery in the region. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, add these top-rated hiking trails to your bucket list. Happy trails!
Mount Tallac Trail
- Location: South Lake Tahoe
- Mileage: 10.1-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Hard
- FYI: This hiking area is popular for hiking and snowshoeing, so expect to see other people. The best times to visit are May through October. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.
Mount Tallac is a famous day hike in Tahoe that offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe from its summit at 9,735 feet above sea level. You’ll start at the Tallac Trailhead parking lot, about a mile from Highway 89 across from Baldwin Beach. The trail begins with a gradual climb along a ridgeline that provides fantastic views of Fallen Leaf Lake. Along the way, you’ll come across two alpine lakes: Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake. Once you pass Cathedral Lake, the trail becomes steeper and rockier as you exit the treeline. From here, you’ll see Gilmore Lake and the summit of Tallac.
As you near the top, don’t forget to appreciate the magnificent views of Emerald Bay and South Lake Tahoe. These views are unparalleled in Tahoe. Mount Tallac is also a popular winter route for backcountry skiers and snowshoers. However, be careful of avalanches and avoid hiking alone.
Eagle Lake Trail
- Location: South Lake Tahoe
- Mileage: 1.9-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This is a popular hiking area, so expect others to be around. Best times to visit are May through October. Dogs welcome on leash.
The Eagle Falls Trail is an excellent place for the whole family to explore. You’ll find waterfalls, creeks, lakes, granite peaks, and lush vegetation here. After getting your permit at the trailhead, head southwest and climb some stone steps to see the falls. If you’re going to the lake, follow the route uphill for about half a mile until you reach a fork. Take the right trail to the lake, where you can swim or enjoy the views.
Eagle Lake Trail, California 96150, USA
Tahoe Rim Trail to Picnic Rock Viewpoint
- Location: Kings Beach
- Mileage: 3.1-mile out-and-back trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- FYI: This hiking area is popular and often busy. The trail is open year-round and beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
If you’re looking for a short and sweet hike in the Tahoe area with epic views of Lake Tahoe and surrounding peaks, this trail is a must-do. The trailhead is located up the hill from Northstar, between Truckee and Kings Beach in North Lake Tahoe. The trail is a smooth single track that can be extended into a longer hike if desired by staying on the Rim Trail. If you’re just interested in the viewpoint, keep an eye out for a tree with an arrow-shaped sign reading “Picnic Rock Lake View” about a mile in. There is no water source along the trail, but you’ll find some shade to keep you cool on warmer days.
