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  • South Lake Tahoe
  • South Lake Tahoe, California

    The South Lake Tahoe area, California is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure. With its picturesque views and plenty of activities to choose from, it is a must-visit for all. From hiking and biking to fishing and skiing, there is something for everyone. For a more laid-back experience, visitors can take in the views from the nearby beaches or take a leisurely stroll in the nearby parks. There is also a variety of attractions in and near the area, such as the historic Tallac Historic Site, the Emerald Bay State Park, and the D.L. Bliss State Park. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day in nature or an unpredictable outdoor journey, South Lake Tahoe, California is truly a treasure trove for all.

    Top Spots in and near South Lake Tahoe

    • Kyburz, California

      Hike the Grouse, Hemlock, and Smith Lake Trail

      5.0
      Starting from the Wright's Lake parking area, walk past the service gate to find the loop trail. Follow the loop trail to the signed trail for Twin, Grouse, Island, and Hemlock Lakes heading toward the right. You will begin an approximate 150 foot ascend before coming to a saddle. Another 150 foo...
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    • Kyburz, California

      Backpack to Smith Lake, Desolation Wilderness

      5.0
      5.6 mi / 1750 ft gain
      To get to the Twin Lakes Trailhead from the Bay Area/Sacramento, head east on HWY 50 past Kyburz for 4 miles until you see the left-hand turnoff for Wrights Road. If coming westbound on HWY 50, this will be a right-hand turn 5 miles past Strawberry. Follow this paved road for 8 miles (watch for p...
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    • Kyburz, California

      Hike to Twin and Island Lakes

      5.0
      7 mi / 1600 ft gain
      The Twin Lakes trail starts winding through a pine forest, with a couple bridge crossings over crystal clear trout-filled streams.  The marsh-like water is very slow moving, and even though it is indeed beautiful, it is also a prime location for pesky mosquitoes in the summertime.  Be sure to loa...
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    • Kyburz, California

      Backpack Desolation's Primitive Western Edge through Rockbound Pass

      4.4
      26.28 mi / 5151 ft gain
      This 26 mile loop meanders through some of the most primitive trails in Desolation Wilderness. Starting from Wrights Lake, the route proceeds over Rockbound Pass, loops around several lakes, and returns to Wrights Lake. Not many hikers venture past the steep and rocky Rockbound Pass to enter this...
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    • Kyburz, California

      Gertrude Lake Trail

      8.28 mi / 1362 ft gain
      Gertrude Lake Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Kyburz, California.
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    • Homewood, California

      Eagle Rock

      4.0
      0.84 mi / 105 ft gain
      Starting at an outcrop off Highway 89 in Tahoe Pines, hikers make their way up the trail through a gradually sloping forest. Climbing rocks and logs, it is strenuous at times but only takes about 15-20 minutes to accomplish. Once at the top, the elevation is 6,286 feet and consists of an absolute...
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    • Carson City, Nevada

      Secret Harbor / Whale Beach

      4.0
      1.67 mi / 384 ft gain
      Secret Harbor / Whale Beach is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Carson City, Nevada.
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    • Carson City, Nevada

      Hike to Secret Cove

      5.0
      0.9 mi / 209 ft gain
      Take a short little hike down from HWY 28 to Secret Cove to relax on the beach on sunbathe on rocks. The water is incredibly clear and has different shades of turquoise. There are many rocks to climb on and the water is great for swimming. It gets crowded early, and is a nude beach, so plan accor...
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    • Kyburz, California

      Hike Pyramid Peak

      5.0
      Although it stands only slightly higher than its neighbors, Pyramid Peak nonetheless dominates the Crystal Range atop which it sits. Great views from the summit make this a must-do.The Route: The route is fairly straightforward to Lake Sylvia (see map). Simply follow the well-defined Lyons Cr...
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    • Tahoe City, California

      Hike the Ellis Peak Trail

      5.0
      6.3 mi / 1660 ft gain
      The Ellis Peak Trail is close to North Lake Tahoe. The trail features scenic wildflowers in the spring and summer. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on leash.  Directions from Truckee: Take Highway 80 south and drive to Tahoe City - continue south on Highway 89 from Tahoe City for 4....
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    • South Lake Tahoe, California

      Meiss and Round Lake via Tahoe Rim Trail

      10.5 mi / 1257 ft gain
      Meiss and Round Lake via Tahoe Rim Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Kirkwood, California.
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    • Markleeville, California

      Caples Lake to Emigrant Lake

      5.0
      8.71 mi / 971 ft gain
      This is an awesome out-and-back hike for the weekend warrior. The trail begins at the western-most point of Caples Lake, and takes you to Emigrant Lake. The first 2/3 of the trail is rather flat and appropriate for all skill levels. The last mile up to the lake schleps up the hill, and has some ...
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    • Carson City, Nevada

      Relax at Tahoe's Chimney Beach

      5.0
      2.2 mi
      Located on the East Bank of Lake Tahoe along Highway 28, Chimney Beach is a great alternative to the more popular and heavily used beaches which can be quite a challenge to gain access due to the parking limitations during the busy summer months and on weekends.From the parking area on the east s...
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    • Carson City, Nevada

      Marlette Lake via Chimney Beach Trailhead

      4.0
      5.96 mi / 1713 ft gain
      This trail starts right off NV28 between Chimney Beach and Great Tahoe Beach. Around 30 minute drive from South Lake Tahoe and the CA/NV border, we arrived close to 10am with plenty of parking available. While it seemed the trail was heavily used by mountain bikes, we encountered zero during our ...
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    • Alpine County, California

      Hike to Round Top Peak

      5.0
      9 mi / 1821 ft gain
      This hike begins at Carson Pass which is accessible from Highway 88. The trail leaves from the parking lot (parking requires a fee of $5) and is easy to follow. After about a mile, you'll pass Frog Lake on the left, which is a nice place to stop for a quick snack.Continue along the trail and stay...
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    • Amador County, California

      Hike to Thunder Mountain at Carson Pass

      7 mi
      The trailhead begins on Rt 88 just past Kirkwood Resort or Silver Lake - depending on which way you are headed. There is plenty of parking but no other amenities. The trail begins at 7,900 ft and climbs steadily up Two Sentinels then along the ridge to Martins Point, ending at the 9,408ft summit ...
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