Take a Walk

Strolls

Paved bike and walking paths are found throughout the region. Long stretches include South Lake Tahoe to Tallac Historic Site and nearby beaches, Tahoe City to Meeks Bay or down the river to Olympic Valley, the lakeside trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor, and the Legacy Trail from Truckee along the river to Glenshire. Relatively level dirt trails are found at Sugar Pine Point State Park, Donner State Park, and behind Meeks Bay Resort.

Hiking Trails

From spring through late-fall, Tahoe has perfect hikes for most every day and every mood. Emerald Bay State Park has a scenic lakeside trail. Tahoe Rim Trail encircles the lake on surrounding peaks and can be accessed at 12 trailheads, including Tahoe Meadows above Incline Village, Brockway Summit off Highway 267, Echo Lakes near Interstate 50, and Spooner Lake near Interstate 50 on Tahoe’s East Shore. A stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail traverses from Donner Summit through Desolation Wilderness, accessed at over 7 trailheads in the Tahoe region. Desolation is the nation’s most visited wilderness area, requiring permits for overnight stays but not for day hikes.

When exploring Tahoe’s mountains and forests, always carry a fully-charged cellphone, adequate water and extra clothing. Turn to the Recreation Map on page 20 for more trail information.

Dog Walks

Dogs on a lease are welcome on Tahoe’s bike trails, and on lease or under voice command on most hiking trails. Hikes with plentiful water include Meeks Bay creek trail, Glen Alpine trail, Five Lakes trail, Shirley Canyon in Olympic Valley, Truckee River Legacy Trail and Donner Memorial State Park.

Bird Watching

Spring and fall, migratory birds linger in the larger wetlands of the Upper Truckee River, Carson Valley and Little Truckee River. Around Lake Tahoe, look for osprey, red-tail hawk and bald eagles. Or have mountain chickadee eating out of your hand on “chickadee ridge,” a short hike east of Nevada Highway 431 in Tahoe Meadows.