Lake Tahoe is known for its stunning vistas, beautiful beaches, and the many outdoor activities available for folks of all abilities. We think that one of the best ways to enjoy Tahoe is from a trail. Here are a few recommendations from the Granlibakken staff, of nearby hiking trails that are fun for all ability levels:
Tahoe Rim Trail:
The Tahoe Rim Trail intersects with Granlibakken property.
Specs:
Easy/Moderate/Difficult
165 miles
Located adjacent to Granlibakken Tahoe, circumvents Lake Tahoe
Why we love it:
The Tahoe Rim Trail circumvents Lake Tahoe, with plenty of trailheads available to hike in and out wherever you please. A 6 mile round-trip hike to Paige Meadows can be accessed easily from Granlibakken's property. Paige Meadows is stunning throughout the summer and early fall, but especially in the early summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Eagle Rock:
Specs:
Easy to moderate
1.5 miles round trip
Located about 5 miles south of Granlibakken on Highway 89
Why we love it:
This short hike to the top of Eagle Rock, which is a volcanic feature on the West Shore, provides almost instant gratification. With panoramic views of the Lake and the surrounding wilderness and plenty of nooks to enjoy the view from, Eagle Rock is a must-do on the West Shore.
Rubicon Trail from Vikingsholm Castle to DL Bliss
Views from the Rubicon Trail in DL Bliss State Park
Specs:
Easy
9 miles round trip
There are two trailheads, one about 17 miles south of Granlibakken in DL Bliss State Park. You can also pick up the trail about 20 miles south of Granlibakken at Vikingsholm Castle in Emerald Bay.
Why we love it:
You can either park in Vikingsholm, and shuttle a second car to DL Bliss to end there, or you can hike out to DL Bliss, enjoy a picnic on the beach, and then make your way back to Vikingsholm for the full 9 mile hike. This trail is a great way to experience the West Shore. The trail for the most part follows the shoreline, with pretty little coves along the way. It also encompasses two great attractions, DL Bliss and Vikingsholm in Emerald Bay, both of which are worth visiting for their beaches, views, and rich history.
Cascade Falls Trail:
Specs:
Easy to moderate
2 miles round trip
Located about 20 miles south of Granlibakken on Highway 89. Trailhead starts across from Inspiration Point, in the Bayview Campground area.
Why we love it:
This short hike offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe for nearly the entire hike. Cascade Falls is beautiful throughout the summer, but especially in the early to mid summer, when the falls are really going. The view of Cascade Lake from the top of the falls makes it feel as though you are standing on top of the world!
5 Lakes Hike
Specs:
Moderate to difficult
4 miles round trip
Trailhead located 6 miles up Alpine Meadows Road, at the intersection of Deer Park Road.
Why we love it:
This hike may not be long in miles, but with an almost 1,000 foot elevation gain, it is challenging. This hike offers stunning views of Granite Chief Wilderness and Alpine Meadows. The reward at the top is a peaceful series of alpine lakes, offering the perfect spot for a picnic.
Wildflowers on the Shirley Canyon hike
Shirley Canyon
Specs:
Moderate to difficult
4 miles round trip--or 2 miles up, and take the tram down
Trailhead is located on Chamonix Place, at the top of Squaw Valley road.
Why we love it:
This trail starts off winding along Squaw Creek, before ascending 1,000 feet to High Camp in Squaw Valley. Offering breathtaking views of Granite Chief Wilderness and Olympic Valley and challenging terrain for any level hiker, this trail is a great way to see Squaw Valley in the summer. You can either hike back down, or take the tram down (it's free on the way down!) to the base of Squaw Valley.
We hope that you enjoy at least one of these Lake Tahoe hikes this summer, and let us know if there are any more you would like to see on our list!