Sitting at the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe, Mount Tallac is one of the most recognizable peaks in the Tahoe Area. It borders the Desolation Wilderness, an area with many great backpacking opportunities. Mount Tallac is a challenging day hike. The distance is short, but the elevation gain is tough. Set out on this steep and challenging hike to get unsurpassed views of Lake Tahoe and panoramic views into Desolation Wilderness.
How to Get to Mount Tallac
From Highway 89, turn off at Camp Shelly/Tallac City. Coming from the north, this is the first right turn after Spring Creek Road. Coming from the south, it is not long after the Lake Tahoe Visitor Center on the left. Follow signs for the Tallac Trailhead.
Hiking Permits
Permits are required, even for day hikes. They are free and available at the trailhead. Fill out the wilderness permit at the trailhead before the hike.
Hike Details
Distance: 9.6 miles return (15.5 kms)
Elevation gain: 3,250 feet (991 meters)
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: difficult
The Hike
From the trailhead, start through the forest on a wide path that gradually takes you up to the ridgeline. Passing the Fallen Leaf Lake, after ¾ miles on the ridgeline, the trail ascends into the Desolation Wilderness. Roughly 1.5 miles in, Floating Island Lake is your first water source.
From here you can see the ridgeline and summit of Mount Tallac. Continue to Cathedral Lake, another ¾ mile further. Just before Cathedral Lake, there is an offshoot with another trail leading to the summit, which is extremely steep and only for very experienced hikers. Cathedral Lake is your last chance for water. From here, the trail becomes fully exposed.
There is a section with very steep switchbacks until you reach a large meadow close to the top of Mount Tallac. Right before the summit, there is a rocky area that requires some scrambling. Once on top, enjoy the views from the highest peak around Lake Tahoe!
What to Bring on the Hike
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Daypack
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Water
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Lunch
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Snacks (jerky, gummies, nuts)
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Hiking shoes
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Sunblock
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Hat
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Trekking Poles
Check out our other posts from California
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Backpacking Santa Rosa, Channel Islands
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Exploring Angel Island: San Francisco
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Hiking Guide to Half Dome
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Hiking Mount Tallac: Lake Tahoe
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Thousand Island Lakes Loop: Mammoth, California
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Trinity Alps Hike to Caribou Lakes
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Ultimate Guide to Point Reyes
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