Hiking

North Lake Tahoe is home to miles upon miles of gorgeous Sierra Nevada wilderness, and we offer endless trails for hiking and exploring all of it. Whether you’re peaking at right about 10,000 feet or taking a relaxing stroll along the shores of Emerald Bay, every trail offers spectacular views of lakes, mountain tops and Sierra wildlife. Check out this list to find a Lake Tahoe hike that’s right for you and click for more details on each trip. You’ll see that, per usual, all 180 degrees of North Lake Tahoe have something to offer.

Here at the North Lake Tahoe Visitor's Bureaus, we like to tie up our laces and explore the wilderness too! On our days off, this is where we’d go for a…

Nature Walk: Page Meadows

Short Hike: Shirley Canyon

Challenging Climb: Eagle Falls

Hike with a View: Rubicon Peak

Looking for something a bit more adventurous? See our picks for alternative mountaineering options.

Extras

10 Tips for Safe Hiking

A guide to flora and fauna in the North Lake Tahoe area

Hiking the Sierra Nevada, by Barry Parr

1,000 Mile Summer, by Colin Fletcher

Places to Buy Hiking Gear

Check out Sierra Front for more on hiking in and around Tahoe

Inspirational quote

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn.”

– John Muir, conservationist and naturalist (1838 – 1914)

10 Tips for Safe Hiking

• Respect our beautiful and fragile Sierra environment by observing all signs and staying on designated trails and roads. PLEASE DO NOT CUT SWITCHBACKS. Stay out of any construction or roped off areas.
• No smoking, please! The fire danger in this area is very high during the summer.
• Carry along plenty of clean water and a snack or energy bar. Never drink directly from a stream, unless you are proficient with water purification methods.
• Always bring an extra layer of clothing. Peaks are often cold and windy even on a sunny day, and Sierra Nevada weather is always subject to change.
• Be ware that even on cloudy days it is important to wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for protection from the high altitude rays.
• Always let someone know where you are hiking ahead of time and bring a cell phone for emergencies. Never hike alone if you can avoid it.
• Make sure to check dog regulations ahead of time when bringing your pet hiking with you.
• Keep an eye out for mountain bikers and horseback riders. Move to the side and let them pass, as you are the most mobile on feet.
• Please stay off chairlifts and towers. During summer maintenance, lifts may be started without warning.
• Seek shelter during thunderstorms. Stay off ridge tops and away from tall trees, lift towers, and large rock outcroppings, as they can attract lightning strikes.
• Leave no trace. Pack out what you packed in.