Top 5 Hiking Trails To Explore In South Lake Tahoe

There’s no limit to the variety of activities visitors to South Lake Tahoe can enjoy, but hiking Tahoe's trails is certainly one of the best. No matter which RnR Vacation Rentals property you stay at, rest assured it won't be far from a dizzying assortment of hiking trails for every level of interest and ability. Whether you seek a gentle stroll or a grander challenge, South Lake Tahoe hiking trails offer something for everyone — with breathtaking views around every bend.

Here are our picks for the 5 best Tahoe hiking trails to check out during your stay!

Fallen Leaf Lake

Take the family on these easy-to-moderate meanders around the north side of Fallen Leaf Lake on two trails: Fallen Leaf Lake Trail and Moraine Trail. In the fall, aspen trees sport dramatic fall colors, and, in spring, stunning wildflowers go into a magnificent bloom. A few miles down the road leads to a more challenging trail up to Angora Ridge, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Further on, you’ll reach scenic Angora Lakes. Enjoy a fresh lemonade here in summer.

Van Sickle Trail

It’s tough to avoid a gorgeous view when walking the area’s latest park. Behind Heavenly Village, the primary trail in Van Sickle Bi-State Park runs from Stateline to the Tahoe Rim Trail, named one of the country’s top 10 trails by National Geographic Adventure magazine. Hike up less than a mile to the waterfall, or press on for another 3.6 miles before heading back. Stunning panoramas highlight the return trip.

Rubicon Trail

The Rubicon trailheads, located in the D. L. Bliss State Park and Emerald Bay State Park, follow Emerald Bay and the lake’s west shore. This popular, moderately challenging trail is sprinkled with waterfalls, fields of wildflowers and a lighthouse. Stop to take in some stunning scenery at the many small sandy coves and dramatic rocky cliffs along the way.

Mount Tallac Trail

Up for a serious challenge? Get a hiking permit at the Mount Tallac trailhead here and trek to the summit of the Tahoe basin’s tallest mountain. You’ll walk around 10 miles round trip and up 3,255 feet to the top of this commanding landmark. The summit stands at 9,735 feet, so the panorama up top is your reward. Two less difficult trails accessed at this point are Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake (both easy to moderate). If you’re headed to the summit, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and set aside a full day to complete the trail.

Skyline Trail

Channel your inner alpine skier, and access higher elevations via gondola or ski lift. From the Heavenly Ski Resort, catch the gondola from the shops at Heavenly Village for a 2.4-mile ride. You’ll stop along the way for photo ops on the observation deck. Alternatively, ride the Tamarack Express chairlift to the top for a walk along the trail. The views of the valley and the lake are magnificent here, and it’s a gentle two-mile round-trip. 

That wraps it up for our top 5 hiking trails and hiking areas to explore during your South Lake Tahoe vacation. For more great local area tips, be sure to check out more of Tahoe blog posts.

Lastly, as mentioned at the top of this post, all of our RnR vacation rentals are within close proximity to these and other hiking trails in South Lake Tahoe. Whether your looking to visit for hiking, water activities, or to just chill out in beautiful scenery, a stay with RnR is the best way to get the most out of your South Lake Tahoe vacation. Click the button below to see what luxury properties are available during your upcoming visit.