Beginner Trails

Big Meadow Trail to Scotts Lake

• Take Hwy. 50 to Hwy. 89 to the Big Meadows parking lot on the left.
• Follow the trail at the lower end of the parking lot approximately 200 yards, where it intersects with the highway.
• Begin your hike by cautiously crossing the highway and look for the trailhead signboard. You'll reach the Scotts Lake trail junction approx. ¼ mile after the trail begins. Here the trail climbs upward high above Big Meadow. The trail travels through a beautiful aspen grove which opens into a valley covered with juniper and sagebrush. The trail then turns into a dirt road, leading to Scotts Lake.

Vikingsholm Trail

View an authentic replica of a Viking castle! Daily tours are given from mid-June through Labor Day. A nominal fee is charged. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the fabulous view of Emerald Bay and Fannette Island from the shoreline of this state park. Hike the short trail to Lower Eagle Falls, which begins directly across Highway 89 from the castle entrance.

• Take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately nine miles.
• Park in the parking lot on the right.
• The hike is one mile, one-way.
• Sorry...no pets please!

Moraine Trail

This two-mile stroll (round-trip) is a relatively flat, forested trail along the shores of Fallen Leaf Lake.

• Take Highway 89 north approximately three miles from South Lake Tahoe to Fallen Leaf Lake Road.
• Continue approximately 2/3 of a mile to Fallen Leaf Lake Campground.
• Drive through the campground and park just before campsite #75 on the right.
• Look for the trailhead sign near the parking area.

Angora Lakes Trail

An easy half mile hike leads to two alpine lakes framed by steep cliffs. Swimming and fishing are allowed. However, summer months can be busy, so arrive early. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.

• Take Highway 89 north approximately 3 miles from South Lake Tahoe to Fallen Leaf Lake Road and turn left.
• Turn left at the first paved road. Continue to Forest Service Road 12N14 and turn right.

Expert Trails

Mt. Tallac Trail

Providing a spectacular view of Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake and Desolation Wilderness, this strenuous hike is worth the effort. The first part of the trail to Floating Island and Cathedral lakes is moderate. Beyond Cathedral Lake, the trail becomes steep and strenuous as it continues up the front face of Mt. Tallac.

• The trailhead is located approximately 3½ miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89.
• Look for the Mt. Tallac Trailhead sign directly across from the entrance to Baldwin Beach and turn left down the dirt road.
• Continue to the trailhead parking.
• Wilderness permit is required.

Bayview Trail

Offering magnificent views of Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe, this steep trail leads you up the side of Maggie's Peak into Desolation Wilderness. Stop at Granite Lake for a short rest along the way. In 2.7 miles this trail intersects with the Eagle Falls Trail. Corral and watering facilities for horses are available at the trailhead.

Wilderness permit is required.