PCT: Desolation Wilderness

The Desolation Wildness portion of the Pacific Crest Trail (and Tahoe Rim Trail) is a spectacular 20 mile section of high alpine lakes, granite peaks and breathtaking vistas. The ease of access and close proximity to South Lake Tahoe make this an extremely popular area. Day hikers can fill out a self-issue permit at the trailhead, but anyone planning on overnighting will need to reserve a permit in advance on recreation.gov. Note that a bear canister is also required for camping.

The hike begins from Echo Lake. You’ll follow alongside Lower and Upper Echo Lakes before a climb up to the official boundary of the Desolation Wilderness Area.

Lake Aloha is the next attraction, a stunning alpine lake backdropped against high granite peaks. There is plenty of camping here, but don’t expect to have it to yourself.

Any crowds will begin to thin out as you continue. After walking alongside the shore of Lake Aloha you’ll then come to Heather Lake, then Susie Lake.

A big climb awaits and leads to Dicks Pass, the high point of this segment. The views from here are incredible.

You’ll then descend to Dicks and Fontanillis Lakes. These are the last of the spectacular high alpine lakes. After this the trail begins to enter the forest and leaves the high alpine behind.

The Desolation Wilderness comes to an end a bit before Richardson Lake. There are a couple different exit options from here, either continuing to Barker Pass or hiking eastward toward Tahoma.