Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
643.00 ft (195.99 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.00 mi (4.83 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 3-mile hike utilizes the Tahoe Rim Trail to climb to an amazing overlook of Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River. The hike begins at the trailhead off Fairway Drive, just a short distance from downtown Tahoe City, California.

Once you’ve parked, begin following the Tahoe Rim Trail as it gains elevation. The climb is a steady incline but shouldn’t be too steep for most. There are patches of trail that are a bit rocky, so be sure to watch your step!

The trail crosses over two 4x4 roads and begins to level out. You’ll soon come to a fantastic viewpoint. The views stretch down to the Truckee River below, and across beautiful Lake Tahoe to the southeastern side and the mountain peaks around Heavenly Ski Resort.

This is a fair spot to turn around if you’ve had enough, but continuing on will take you to another two viewpoints. If you elect to carry on the trail darts back into the forest, before turning to the left and again coming out of the woods and to a rocky viewpoint. A short distance up the trail is another similar rocky point. While not visible from above, a popular climbing location called Twin Crags lies below this point.

Continue as far along the Tahoe Rim Trail as you’d like, and when ready, retrace your footsteps back to the trailhead.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Stunning view of Lake Tahoe. Fairly short hike.

Trailhead Elevation

6,312.00 ft (1,923.90 m)

Highest point

6,877.00 ft (2,096.11 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Wildlife
Family friendly
Big vistas
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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