Introduction:
What? :
Hiking to the summit of Mount Tallac (9,735 feet) is one of the most well-known and popular day hikes in the Tahoe area and there are good reasons for that.
The 10 miles out-and-back hike with 3,300 ft of elevation gain is a strenuous, yet highly rewarding experience.
The trail winds through forests, past beautiful alpine lakes (Floating Island and Cathedral Lake), and culminates in a steep, exposed, and rocky ascent to the top, where hikers are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic vistas of south Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Desolation Wilderness.
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Where? :
The Mount Tallac Trailhead is located on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe, near Fallen Leaf Lake, a short distance north of South Lake Tahoe, CA.
From South Lake Tahoe drive northwest on Highway 89. After 3.9 miles turn left for the Mount Tallac Trailhead road, located directly across from the entrance to Baldwin Beach.
Turn onto Mount Tallac Road (paved, then dirt/gravel), drive 1 mile and follow the signs for the trailhead parking area.
The parking is free but small. During the busy summer months it may get filled up early, especially on weekends and holidays.
When? :
The primary hiking season for the Mount Tallac Trail is Summer and Early Fall, generally from late June through September or early October.
The summer months provide snow-free conditions, but with high temperatures and crowds. You should expect afternoon thunderstorms in late summer.
Start early to avoid the mid-day heat.
Early Fall (September-Early October) provides good hiking weather with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning clear air. However, rain or snow and ice can happen, check the weather forecast before your hike. During late fall you will enjoy the beauty of the fall colored leaves of the aspen trees.
Winter: The road to the trailhead is typically gated from November to May. Hiking during this period requires winter mountaineering skills.
Due note 1:
Mount Tallac is in the Desolation Wilderness. No fee for day hikers but they are required to fill out a self-issued permit at the trailhead.
Overnight backpackers must have a paid permit in advance.
Due note 2:
Mountain weather can change quickly. Pack layers, including a windbreaker or rain jacket, as the summit can be significantly colder and windier than the trailhead.
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and good grip are highly recommended as well as trekking poles.
The upper half of the trail has virtually no shade. Bring and apply high-SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Due note 3:
Carry a minimum of 3 to 4 liters of water per person. You can refill your water by filtering the lower lakes water. The upper two miles are completely exposed with no reliable water sources.
This is a long hike, bring with you snacks and something to eat.
Due note 4:
Start as early as you can. This will help you with finding parking at the trailhead, walking up when it is still relatively cool, and to avoid the crowd at the summit mid-day.
Due note 5:
The trail is generally well-marked but can be difficult to follow in the rocky, exposed areas or if snow is present. Carry a map or a reliable GPS track on your phone/device.
Due note 6:
Pack out all trash, stay on the marked trails to protect the fragile alpine environment, and be respectful of the wilderness.
My thoughts:
The hike up is challenging but it rewards you with one of a kind view of south lake Tahoe and all the surrounding area.
We visited here during a summer weekend and unfortunately did not start the hike early so when we arrived at the summit it was full of other hikers, not the best solitude nature experience but the view is amazing.
The Hike:
The trail starts with easy climbing in the forest as it reaches a ridgeline you will have on your left beautiful views over Fallen Leaf Lake.
After about 1.7 miles you will reach Floating Island Lake.
After an additional short walk you will reach Cathedral Lake, this will be about 2.5 miles from the trailhead.
From here the trail begins to climb steeply, you will exit the tree line and the landscape is fully exposed. As you gain elevation on the rocky trail the view opens up. Stop for getting rest and enjoying the view.
Now comes the most challenging section of the trail, it climbs relentlessly with steep switchbacks over a large talus section with loose rock. The trail is clear and stable but involves large rock steps and steep inclines.
After 3.7 miles from the trailhead you will be at the top of the talus section but the climb is not over, you still have another 1,000 ft of elevation climb ahead of you.
Follow the main trail to the right and start to climb the mountain from its “back” side.
There are some trees growing but the landscape to Desolation Wilderness is impressive.
At mile 4.2 from trailhead there are 2 trails to choose from, both make it to the mountain peak.
I chose the left one, it looks like this is the main trail, it is longer but with gradual climbing.
The final approach to Mt Tallac Peak involves a bit of scrambling over larger rocks but nothing dangerous.
The Mt. Tallac summit at 9,735 feet provides amazing views of Lake Tahoe, Cascade Lake, Fallen Leaf Lake, and on its other side the rugged granite peaks of the Desolation Wilderness.
All the people are seated on the exposed rock, resting, eating and enjoying the views.
From here it is all a long hike down.
One of the great hikes I did.
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