Round Lake

The hike to Round Lake is a 6 mile out-and-back hike that begins from Big Meadow Trailhead off Luther Pass Road (Highway 89). The hike follows the Tahoe Rim Trail to namesake Round Lake which, while not as spectacular as other nearby lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, is still a worthwhile destination.

Beginning from the trailhead you’ll (carefully) cross the highway then climb some switchbacks through a rocky portion of trail.

The trail then flattens out as you walk across beautiful Big Meadow. Big Meadow Creek flows through here and the whole area is simply lovely.

After the meadow the trail resumes climbing. You’ll then descend slightly before coming to the lake.

Round Lake is a large lake, with a few use trails leading partially around the shore. There are plenty of places to enjoy the lake, and the far (southern) end even has some boulders you could potentially jump off.

After enjoying the lake, return the way you came back to Big Meadow Trailhead.