Hike: Mount Tallac

Hike: Mount Tallac

For every season in Tahoe there is a different reason to be outside enjoying what nature and this area brings to us.  In winter, the fluffy white snow brings us outside to ski, sled, snowshoe or build a snowman.  The spring brings us outside to enjoy the tacky trails for mountain biking, the fresh blooming flowers and the warm sun.  The summer holds endless beach days, boating, camping and swimming.  In Tahoe, fall is the perfect time of year to head up into the mountains for a day hike.  

One of my favorite Tahoe hikes is the Mount Tallac trail.  This trail is located on the south side of Lake Tahoe just past Emerald Bay, about 5 miles if you are heading south on HWY 89.  Mount Tallac is 9,734 feet above sea level and is the 12th highest peak that surrounds Lake Tahoe’s shores.  This is no easy hike with 3,000 foot elevation gain in the 5 miles to the top but the views are worth it.  The trails starts by meandering through the forest with a spectacular view of Fallen Leaf Lake on the left. 

On the way up you will also pass Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake. After Cathedral Lake, the trail emerges from the forest to switchbacks as you approach the summit.  Once you make it to the top, your tired legs will thank you as there are jaw-dropping views in every direction. Fallen Leaf Lake, Freel Peak, the Carson Range, Echo Summit, Highway 50, Ralston Peak, the ski runs at Sierra-at-Tahoe, Pyramid Peak, Desolation Wilderness, Gilmore Lake, Susie Lake, Dicks Peak, Twin Peaks, High Camp at Squaw Valley and Granite Chief can all be seen but Lake Tahoe steals the show.  As you are perched on top of this large rock pile looking over the top of Big Blue, you will be proud of yourself and see that every step up was worth it to be where you are. 

Be prepared, it will take about 6-8 hours round trip depending on how fast you go.  Pack lots of water and food and start early because the fall equinox is now behind us and the days are getting shorter.  It’s time to maximize the crisp fall days and set aside a day to explore Mount Tallac. 

Click here for trail information. 

Katie Tyler

Realtor®

BRE 01442453

c 530 277 1012