Guest Experiences Travel Tips

Spring Hikes in Lake Tahoe

While the higher elevation trails may still be covered in snow, spring is the perfect time to explore a number of lower elevation hikes in Lake Tahoe. These trails offer breathtaking views, mild temperatures, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. North Lake Tahoe features various trails and locations, such as Emigrant Trail and Galena Falls, which are beginner-friendly and offer stunning lake views. Here are some top spring hikes that you can enjoy:
  • Shirley Canyon: Located conveniently in Olympic Valley, take this trail that winds up the mountains along a creek full of spring runoff, beautiful waterfalls, and budding wildflowers! If you’re feeling exceptionally adventurous, you can continue on past the waterfall and complete the full 5 mile trip up to High Camp at Palisades Tahoe, where you can take the Aerial Tram back down and soak in the incredible Tahoe views.
  • Eagle Lake Trail: Located in South Lake Tahoe, this easy 2-mile hike is perfect for families and offers spectacular views of Eagle Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Your first reward is the stunning Eagle Falls, and from there you can continue to the lake which sits right beneath North Maggie’s Peak, offering a picturesque spot to hang out and take in the scenery.
  • Mount Tallac Trail (Lower Sections): While the higher elevations are still likely to be snowy, the lower sections of this popular trail are accessible during spring. The views as you ascend are absolutely worth it!
  • Rubicon Trail: This scenic trail along the western shore of Lake Tahoe offers stunning lake views and a moderate hike that’s perfect for a spring outing.

Mountain Biking and Cycling

For those who crave the thrill of two wheels, Lake Tahoe is a mountain biking paradise. With over 100 miles of trails and scenic routes, the area offers an exhilarating experience for riders of all skill levels. Spring is the perfect time to hit the trails, as the paths are less crowded and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Imagine pedaling through fields of blooming wildflowers with the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains as your backdrop.

One of the must-ride trails is the Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile loop that circumnavigates the lake, offering challenging terrain and jaw-dropping views. For a mix of history and scenery, the Flume Trail is a 14-mile route that follows the historic flume path, providing panoramic vistas of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding peaks. If you’re in Tahoe City, you’ll find a network of trails catering to all levels, from gentle cruisers to adrenaline-pumping single tracks. So grab your mountain bike and get ready to explore the rugged beauty of Lake Tahoe on two wheels.