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Stand by for a tall trail - the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) that ranges in elevation from a mere 1,900 m (6,240 ft) at the outlet end of Lake Tahoe to an altogether more impressive 3,100 m (10,175 ft) at Relay Peak, though it has been carefully constructed to ensure that the average gradient throughout is no more than 10 per cent. This long-distance hiking and equestrian route circles Lake Tahoe in the Carson and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges of Nevada and California. Mountain biking is allowed along most (but not all) sections of the TRT.
Lake Tahoe is a deep-blue, natural mountain lake, some 35 km (22 mi) long by 19 km (12 mi) wide. It is surrounded by snowcapped mountains, volcanic peaks, granite cliffs, lush forests, jewel-like small lakes, alpine meadows and rich diversity of flora and fauna. The Tahoe Rim Trail that girdles this natural wonder is 263 km (164 mi) long, going through two states, one State Park, three National Forests and three Wilderness Areas.
It's all demanding terrain that presents a real challenge to the dedicated hiker, who will need to carry all the essentials for survival in a single backpack. The reward for all that physical effort is experiencing the solitude and outstanding natural beauty of one of America's great trails.
The TRT is open to skiers in winter but is not marked then. A permit is required to enter Desolation Wilderness (the Echo Lake to Barker Pass section of the trail). There are blue triangular TRT markers at regular intervals, but anyone attempting the entire journey should get a detailed map. Those who don't have the time (or strength) to undertake the entire journey but wish to see something of this magical landscape can access the Trail at many points for a day hike.
How
On foot
When to visit
Mid-June to October 9hot for hiking, but no remnants of snow).
Duration of the journey
A fortnight (two weeks)
Highlights
- Spooner Lake and Summit above the east shore - refill the water bottle whilst soaking up fabulous views across Lake Tahoe.
- The outlook from Relay Peak - far-reaching panoramic views of the entire Tahoe Basin, over the Sierras to Mount Lassen and beyond.
- A stunning display of wildflowers (at their best in the first two weeks of July) or fall foliage (September and October)
- Any one of nine trailheads on the THT - not only because they mark progress, but for the opportunity to restock with essential supplies!
You should know
You get the tackle two for the price of one - the section above the lake's west shore is shared with the Pacific Coast Trail.
