Nestled in the heart of the Lake Tahoe basin, Eagle Lake Trail is making it easy for hikers to navigate because it is well-marked. Breathtaking views, crystal clear alpine lake, waterfalls, and lush forest; it has got everything.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who are novice hikers can’t ask for a better trail than this. Because the great thing is, you don’t have to do much effort to enjoy such a great hike. It’s a relatively easier and shorter trail, so you can go with your family. You can also take your dog with you, but keep them on a leash. This beautiful trail is located near South Lake Tahoe, California. It’s a 3.2-km roundtrip, with an elevation gain of 142 m.
The hike begins at the Eagle Falls Trailhead at the end of Eagle Falls Road in Emerald Bay State Park. It’s a well-marked trail, so you can easily follow the signs for the trail. It starts as a paved path and ascends slowly. First, you will get to the footbridge over Eagle Creek. Ascending the stone stairs should not be too difficult. When you have crossed the footbridge, the trail becomes a dirt path and starts to ascend uphill. Soon, you will see Eagle Falls. If you don’t want to go for a full hike, you can turn back, but if you continue, it would be worth it.
But if you want to continue your hike further, you will need a permit, as you would enter the Desolation Wilderness. You can get the permit near the parking lot. As you continue your hike, the views become even more impressive. The surrounding peaks and valleys are mesmerizing.
Before reaching the lake, you have to go through a rocky area. You have to be cautious in this area. Take a break in the trees and enjoy the views of the massive mountains surrounding you. And make sure to take a lot of photos.
Soon, you will see the sign pointing towards the Eagle Lake. Many hikers stop here and enjoy the views of the lake. If you want, you can also take the trail to the left. The way leads to a collection of boulders.
When you are ready to return, you can follow the same path back by retracing your steps. An exciting thing about this trail is that you can encounter wildlife. If you are lucky, you might even spot a black bear, a deer, or even a mountain lion. The recommended time to hike Eagle Lake trail is during the summer months.