Rewarding you with one of the best summits, Mount Tallac Trail features great views all along. The out and back trail is located near South Lake Tahoe, California. The total distance of the trail is 14.7km and its elevation gain is 997m.
If you have ever visited Lake Tahoe, you know the mountains nearby play a great role in the lake’s beauty. It’s the largest alpine lake in the US and Mount Tallac is one of the highest peaks around the lake. When you hike the trail, not only you will get the great views of the lake, you will also be mesmerized by the different landscapes the trail has to offer. Whether it is green forests, ridgeline walks, alpine lakes, or alpine meadows, you will love every part of the hike.
The hike is accessible from May to October, but due to weather conditions, it might only be accessible from June to September. You should check the weather conditions when you plan your hiking trip.
It’s recommended that you take at least 3 liters of water and plenty of snacks with you. You will come across a running creek and small lakes, so if you want to carry less water, then carry water filter with you as well.
To reach the trailhead, take Highway 89 to the Camp Shelly, and when you are heading east look for the signs to Tallac Trailhead. When you start hiking, you will reach the Floating Island Lake at 1.5 miles, and at 2.2 miles you will reach the Cathedral Lake. It’s a great spot to take a small break because then the hike becomes a bit difficult. The trail gains steady elevation, as you make your way through the Cathedral Bowl.
You will have to hike up the rocky slopes, when doing so you will see a peak above you, don’t mistake it for Mt. Tallac. You will get to the top of the tallus field and the path would become a bit straight. There, you will get the first glimpse of the Desolation Wilderness.
You will through several alpine meadows, as you make your way up. After a while, the trail reaches a junction and you have to follow to the summit. The path gets quite rocky in the last part, but still not too technical. You continue hiking and the trail ends up at the summit. Even if there are other groups of people, there is enough area for you to find a good space to enjoy the views and take photos.