Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
2,075.00 ft (632.46 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
11.10 mi (17.86 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This 11 mile out and back hike leads to a Kiwanis Club Bench situated at a lovely vista point overlooking Lake Tahoe. It is popular as a day hike, but can also be overnighted with some great camping near the vista.

You’ll begin from the trailhead on the south side of Highway 50 at Spooner Summit. Hop on the Tahoe Rim Trail and follow it generally southward. The trail climbs steadily through the forest, with nice switchbacks.

You won’t have a view of Lake Tahoe for a few miles. Finally, a bit before mile 5, the trail reaches the ridge and flattens out. You’ll have great views as you continue the rest of the way to the vista.

The viewpoint is where you’ll find the Kiwanis Club Bench, dedicated to George Wilson. Have a seat and enjoy the view, you’ve earned it.

Once satisfied, return the way you came.

If looking to overnight, there is some fantastic camping located just before the vista point, with multiple sheltered sites in the forest.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Well maintained trail that climbs to a great viewpoint and bench.

Trailhead Elevation

7,141.00 ft (2,176.58 m)

Highest point

8,817.00 ft (2,687.42 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Big vistas
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.

You May Also Enjoy