“There are 100 ways to kneel and kiss the earth,” according to Rumi, and surely one of the best is hiking. To experience Lake Tahoe hikes is to elevate above the usual – not only in altitude but in exquisite beauty, physical challenges and the inner peace mountain trails offer. To join in on one of the most well-known things to do in Tahoe, lace up those boots. There are literally hundreds of Lake Tahoe hiking trails, ranked from beginner to advanced, and one should believe the rankings. These high-altitude trails are not the place to be over-confident in your cardio or muscle fitness, and remember that, if you aren’t conditioned to the thinner air, your lungs will be working harder than usual. But once you’re on your way on the proper Lake Tahoe hikes, you’ll lose yourself in the views and be so glad you hit the trails. The many state parks in this area provide exceptional trails. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see local flora and fauna and even historic castles and mansions! Several ski areas promote Lake Tahoe hiking in the warmer weather along the same trails that entice wintertime skiers. If you like the idea of a hike but would rather be going downhill, you can even ride the ski lift to the top and hike down. For novices, that’s a great way to start your Lake Tahoe hiking adventures.
Featured for Your Visit
Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
11001 CA Highway 89, South Lake Tahoe, CA
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay State Park. The park includes two campgrounds: the Boat-In Camp (accessible by boat and foot only) and Eagle Point Campground. Within the park are various treasures including Tahoe's hidden castle, Vikingsholm, the scenic Rubicon foot trail that connects Eagle Point Campground with Vikingsholm and DL Bliss State Park. The park also encompasses Fanette Island, the only island of Lake Tahoe. The park extends below the surface of the lake, where visitors will find a historical story book of days gone by in the form of sunken barges, ships and launches. The park closes down in the winter, though people are able to walk the mile-long, steep trail to Vikingsholm Castle to enjoy the grounds and beaches. The trail can be a bit treacherous in winter if snowy or icy. Visitors should remember to pack it in and pack it out and to leave no trace.
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay State Park. The park includes two campgrounds: the Boat-In Camp (accessible by boat and foot only) and Eagle Point Campground. Within the park are various treasures including Tahoe's hidden castle, Vikingsholm, the scenic Rubicon foot trail that connects Eagle Point Campground with Vikingsholm and DL Bliss State Park. The park...read more
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay...read more
Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
Wild Society is a adventure rental outfitter best known for its clear kayaks and paddleboards, which make it possible to see deep into the water while you paddle. These kayaks and paddleboards are hugely popular, and you can rent or buy them here. Wild Society is also a travel concierge and guide service, helping newcomers participate in a range of activities and learn a new landscape...read more
Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
Two miles south of Tahoe City, William Kent Beach is a free, public, pebbly beach sandwiched between the water of Lake Tahoe and Highway 89. This beach strand is connected to the William Kent Campground. William Kent Beach and Campground are located on National Forest land managed by the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. An excellent beach for swimming and lounging, it...read more
Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
Wyld at Heart Adventures is an outdoor adventure company that specializes in customized experiences in the Lake Tahoe area. Their mission is to provide unique and challenging adventures that help individuals explore their wild side while showcasing the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. At Wyld at Heart Adventures, they believe in the power of pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. They offer fun excursions that...read more