Lake Tahoe is home to miles upon miles of breathtaking Sierra Nevada wilderness. Hiking and exploring trails on foot is one of the best ways to access the untouched beauty of the area. North Lake Tahoe hiking will bring you up into the blue sky at 10,000 feet or down to the shore on amazing beaches or bike trails around 6,200 feet. Spend a day in the sun meandering along the Five Lakes trail or follow the path to the captivating spray of Shirley Canyon waterfalls. Every turn has options for taking in secluded forests and Sierra wildlife, from the outskirts of Tahoe City to the peaks of the Tahoe Rim Trail. Don’t forget your hiking shoes and get out on our thousands of acres of Lake Tahoe trails.
Hiking Trails
The best hiking trails in North Lake Tahoe range from easy strolls to steep switchbacks leading into the clouds.
Mountaineering
Whether you’re aiming for the high peaks surrounding Lake Tahoe or cutting through on the Pacific Crest Trail, there are a range of options.
North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail
Thinking of heading out for a hike? Reward yourself with a stop at trail’s end with the North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail.
Find out more about North Lake Tahoe Ale TrailInterpretive Trails
Learn about the Lake Tahoe area flora and fauna, history and more by paying a visit to one of these fun educational spots.
North Tahoe Regional Park
The North Tahoe Regional Park located in Tahoe Vista features a 3/4 mile interpretive Sierra forest nature trail that educates visitors about the Lake Tahoe ecosystem.
Downtown Tahoe City, Fanny Bridge and Gatekeepers Museum
Take a walk along through town starting at Gatekeepers Museum and Fanny bridge, to Commons beach and read through the informative interpretive signs along the way.
North Lake Tahoe Visitors Center
Visit the center on your walk through town on the corner of route 89 and 28. The center contains interpretive panels, books and more information on the Tahoe area.
The Tahoe Trail – Tahoe East Shore Trail
There are over 20 interpretive panesl lining the shore and the moutain side route of the Tahoe East Shore Trail. Each panel enables you to discover flora and fauna, cultural history, geology, how the trail was constructed, and maps to orient yourself. Nearest the North Lake Tahoe of Incline Village, this community lies about 45 minutes from downtown Reno. From Reno, head south on I-580 south and exit on Mount Rose Highway. Follow the Mount Rose Highway, or State Route 431 for about 22 miles to Incline Village. Once you’ve arrived in Incline, head for Ponderosa Ranch Road, where you can park your vehicle and access the trailhead. You can also access the trail from Sand Harbor boat launch area. For information about trail access and other things to see and do in North Lake Tahoe, dial the Incline Village and Crystal Bay Visitors Bureau at (775) 832-1606.