Imagine clear blue skies, the smell of pine trees, and pristine trails: welcome to summer hiking in Lake Tahoe. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe transforms into a hiker’s haven during the summer months, offering trails that promise breathtaking vistas and clean, crisp air. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or with young kids looking to explore, there are tons of hikes in Lake Tahoe to fit your needs.
Summer is not just another season in Lake Tahoe; it’s a celebration of adventure where every trail leads to discovery.
Exploring Lake Tahoe: A Summer Hiking Paradise
With diverse landscapes ranging from peaceful lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. As you journey through the different hiking areas in Lake Tahoe, you’ll encounter vibrant wildflowers, serene beaches, and awe-inspiring peaks, each hike offering its own unique slice of Tahoe’s charm. So lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty that is Lake Tahoe in the summer. You’re not just going on a hike; you’re embarking on an unforgettable adventure.
Why you should visit Lake Tahoe in the Summer
Did you know that Lake Tahoe receives over 15 million visitors annually? I had always thought of Lake Tahoe as a winter destination, known for its famed ski reasons like Heavenly. However, Lake Tahoe, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Sierra,” is a breathtaking destination that transforms into a summer playground from June to September. This alpine lake, cradled by the Sierra Nevada mountains, offers a perfect blend of stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
One of the main attractions of Lake Tahoe during the summer is the sheer variety of activities available. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual walker, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of nature, the area has something to offer. The lake’s shimmering blue waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking, while its surrounding trails provide a range of hiking experiences, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
Summer at Lake Tahoe also means long, sunny days, perfect for exploring its many beaches and hiking trails. After your hike, picture yourself relaxing on soft sands, surrounded by majestic pines and the sound of gently lapping waves.
Is Lake Tahoe Dog Friendly?
Yes! Lake Tahoe is one of the most dog-friendly hiking destinations. Tons of my suggested hikes offer dog-friendly trails. Many of the beaches in Lake Tahoe are also dog-friendly.
In the summer, it is super common to see TONS of dogs around.
How long do the best summer hikes in Lake Tahoe typically take?
There are certainly tons of big, long hikes in Lake Tahoe. But if you want to do short family hikes, there are plenty of options there too. I would say the most common hikes I have done are around 4 to 5 miles, with more than 1,000 ft of elevation gain. At a moderate pace, that will take you around 2.5 hours.
That is probably the most common hike, but there are also lots of shorter trails less than 2 miles that are great for families with young kids. On the other side of the spectrum, there are also plenty of trails over 7 miles that will give you a bigger half-day adventure.
Summer Hiking Safety Tips for Lake Tahoe Explorers
Hydration is key when you’re hiking in Lake Tahoe! Lake Tahoe’s elevation is 6,225 feet above sea level, which means that you should be careful with elevation if you are from a sea-level town. If you are not acclimated, high elevation can lead to sickness. Consider spending a day or two doing mild activities to allow your body to adjust. Also, be sure to hydrate adequately, as higher altitudes can lead to quicker dehydration.
Once acclimated, the Lake Tahoe area offers endless opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes. With stunning panoramic views, verdant meadows, and refreshing alpine lakes, the hikes here are nothing short of spectacular. Just remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, snacks, and a map for your journey—Mother Nature should never be underestimated.
What Should I Wear?
The average summer temperature in Lake Tahoe ranges from 70 to 80 degrees F, but the mornings can start off as cold as 40 degrees! This unique temperature is because of the massive lake, it creates its own microclimate in the surrounding area.
For most of my hikes, I started my day with the adidas All Szn Fleece Boyfriend Hoodie and Techfit Leggings. I also love my Powerreact Training bra. However, when the temperature quickly gets hot – and it can get very very hot under the sun – I take off my hoodie and just wear my Own the Run Tee. The shirt is incredibly breathable and high quality. I’ve ran into many tree branches, climbed over rocks, and all my adidas gear has held up really well. You can shop more adidas women’s hoodies and sports bras directly on their website.
For hiking shoes, I like having sturdy hiking shoes in Lake Tahoe. The rocks are a bit more difficult than your standard hike, because of the high elevation and unique climate of Lake Tahoe. I did all my hikes in Lake Tahoe with my adidas Terrex Skychaser 2.0 hiking shoes. There are more waterproof hiking shoes options on adidas’ website.
Must-Visit Summer Hikes in Lake Tahoe
What are the top summer hikes in Lake Tahoe? There are so many hikes to choose from, but I have narrowed down my all-time favorite hikes.
1. Shirley Lake and High Camp
The Shirley Lake Trail is an awesome 4.1 mile hike that goes up to High Camp in Palisades Tahoe. You will see remnants of the 1960 Winter Olympics that was hosted there, including many points of the Olympic Rings!
One of the attractions of the Shirley Lake Trail is the opportunity to soak in jaw-dropping vistas after a satisfying ascent. The trail takes you through a diverse array of landscapes—from serene forests to granite rock landscapes and beautiful wildflower fields. The cool part of this hike is that after you hike up to Shirley Trail and High Camp, you can take the Aerial Tram down to the parking lot. The Aerial Tram is free on the way down and only runs in the summer.
2. Five Lakes Trail
The Five Lakes Trail, a 5-mile round trip hike, offers an unforgettable adventure through granite peaks and serene alpine lakes. Perfect for early risers, this moderately challenging trail is a summer gem waiting to be explored.
As described, this awesome hike takes you to five different lakes, all of which your dogs can swim in. My dogs had so much fun exploring and jumping into the water.
3. Glen Alpine Trail
The Glen Alpine Trail offers a fascinating 5-mile journey that immerses you in a mix of historic sites and stunning natural beauty, perfect for summer exploration. This moderately challenging hike takes you through serene wilderness, leading up to Lake Aloha with panoramic views of the Desolation Wilderness. As you hike, you can explore the remnants of the Glen Alpine Springs Resort.
4. Granite Lake and Maggie Peaks
This is one of my all time favorite hikes in the winter, but it is also a fantastic hike in the summer.
The hike is moderately challenging at 4.1 miles, making it accessible for most fitness levels. It takes you up Maggie Peaks and Granite Lake, where you get a stunning view of Lake Tahoe from the south.
5. Vikingsholm Trail
When people ask me – are there any easy hikes in Lake Tahoe for families during summer? I immediately think of Vikingsholm Trail and Eagle Falls Trail (more on that below).
Nestled in the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe, the Vikingsholm Trail offers a picturesque journey along the shores of Emerald Bay. This moderately easy hike stretches approximately 1.7 miles round-trip, weaving through a forested path that opens up to breathtaking views of the sparkling bay below. The trail ends at Vikingsholm, a stunning Scandinavian-style castle, where you can marvel at the intricate architecture and enjoy a peaceful picnic on the grounds. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a lover of nature’s beauty, this trail perfectly encapsulates the unique charm of Lake Tahoe’s landscape.
Sadly there are no dogs allowed.
6. Eagle Falls Trail
Nestled in South Lake Tahoe, Eagle Falls Trail is a must-experience hike offering spectacular views and a refreshing adventure. The trailhead is conveniently located near Emerald Bay, one of the area’s most picturesque spots. This relatively short trek, measuring in at just under two miles, provides an out-and-back experience perfect for families or those looking for a scenic and invigorating morning or afternoon hike. A highlight of this trail is the breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls you encounter along the way.
As you navigate the trail, you’ll cross over the historic Upper Eagle Falls Bridge. Then you’ll ascend gently through lush wooded fields before reaching Eagle Lake. This is a great family-friendly hike.
Conclusion
Each trail in Lake Tahoe’s diverse landscape offers its own unique charm, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, from serene lakeside walks to challenging mountain treks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, the majestic beauty of Lake Tahoe will reward you with unforgettable experiences and panoramic views.
If you remember to prioritize safety, you’ll find that hiking in Lake Tahoe during the summer is one of the best alpine adventures in the U.S.
