“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
7360 West Lake Boulevard, Tahoma, CA
Explore the untouched beauty of Burton Creek State Park, just outside Tahoe City, spanning 2,000 acres of pristine forest and meadowland. Unwind on 6 miles of unpaved roads, ideal for hiking, mountain biking and winter cross-country skiing. Traverse the mountainous terrain, adorned with conifers and shrubs that prime wildlife and bird watching. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers, while fall paints the cottonwoods in vivid hues. Though lacking amenities like water and restrooms, Burton Creek's charm lies in its natural preserves, including Antone Meadows and Burton Creek Natural Preserve. Despite its undeveloped state, Burton Creek holds immense potential, with numbered junctions aiding in improvisational hikes along dirt roads. For a structured experience, the new Tahoe Rim Trail section guides you through the park, where Burton Creek and meadows create a picturesque setting for leisurely walks. Motorized vehicles are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful haven for cross-country skiers, mountain bikers and hikers.
Explore the untouched beauty of Burton Creek State Park, just outside Tahoe City, spanning 2,000 acres of pristine forest and meadowland. Unwind on 6 miles of unpaved roads, ideal for hiking, mountain biking and winter cross-country skiing. Traverse the mountainous terrain, adorned with conifers and shrubs that prime wildlife and bird watching. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers, while
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Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
Ward Canyon is off CA Highway 89/West Lake Boulevard on the backside of Alpine Meadows Ski Area. The park is a protected, undeveloped swath of beautiful forest that offers manicured single-track trails and access to Ward Creek, a beautiful babbling stream that provides a stunning backdrop to the forest that surrounds it. The trail system connects with other trails that traverse the entire Lake Tahoe...read more
Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
Lake Tahoe Running, Walking & Hiking
Whale Beach is the last of a series of secluded beaches accessed off of Highway 28 on the east shore of Lake Tahoe and is also known as Black Sand Beach. Accessed via a trailhead that begins at the free public parking area 2.6 miles south of Sand Harbor, the trail begins steep than quickly levels off. When the trail Ys take a left (walking...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