The parking area at the Bayview Trailhead is small and fills up quickly. Hikers may have to park along Highway 89 and walk to the trailhead.
Informational sign at the trailhead. All hikers are required to fill out a free backcountry permit at the sign.
Hikers heading to Maggie's Peak and the Desolation Wilderness backcountry make an immediate right upon beginning the trail.
The switchbacks and elevation gain is steady, but it is also scenic.
A brief respite from the uphill climb makes for a good spot to take a break and look out over Emerald Bay.
Granite Lake sits along the trail and makes a great destination in itself, or it can be a nice place to cool off.
Granite Lake.
Climbing beyond Granite Lake toward the peak.
At points the trail is steep enough that crews have built steps to help with the climb.
Still scenic...and uphill.
Snow is not an uncommon sight when hiking during the transitional seasons.
A view of the final 250-foot scramble off of the Granite Lake Trail and toward the peak.
The summit of Maggie's Peak (8,699 ft) provides panoramic views and a breathtaking angle from which to enjoy views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding rim!