Whether walking a short distance from the trailhead, or hiking longer distances, exploring the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) is a great way to get out and see wildflowers, fungi, or fall colors. The trail can be divided up into eight segments, ranging from 12.2 - 32.5 miles in length. Unofficial entry points also provide a means of getting onto the trails.
Tahoe City to Brockway Summit (20.2 miles)
This segment of trail begins by meandering through groves of fir and cedar trees and across open hillsides covered with manzanita. It is a steep climb up until about half way when the trail begins to plateau. Where the trail plateaus there is a nice view of Lake Tahoe, and there is shade most of the way until the drop down into Watson Lake. Between Watson Lake and Brockway the trail gently winds through low sloping hills covered in meadows and thick forest.
Brockway Summit to Mount Rose Summit / Tahoe Meadows (20.2 miles)
This segment of the trail is most prized due to its vast meadows of wildflowers, towering waterfalls, and for having the highest peak along the TRT trail, Relay Peak. Along this segment are beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra and Carson range. Several smaller spur trails offer sides adventures, including one that leads to Mount Houghton.
Trail conditions are best during the usually snow-free months of July through mid-October, and the height of the wildflower bloom is usually mid-July to mid-August.
Not yet ready to hike the entire trail? No worries! There are several day hikes that are just as beautiful as the Tahoe Rim Trail. These trails are sure to prepare you for the entire rim trail. Visit some beautiful alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, peaks or waterfalls in just a days hike! These day hikes range from easy two-mile hikes to more strenuous 12 mile out-and- back trails that are sure to leave you wanting more.
More information such as current conditions and guided hikes is available at Tahoe Rim Trail Association.
Plenty of lodging and services available in nearby cities such as Stateline, Kingsbury, Incline Village, Kings Beach and Tahoe city.
Check out Visit Lake Tahoe for some more popular activities and endless fun around the lake!
Permit required for overnight stays in Desolation Wilderness. Visit Recreation.gov to book your permit.
For additional information, visit the USFS - Lake Tahoe Basin website or the Tahoe Rim Trail Association website or contact:
Download map files for your own use.
There are 12 official trailheads, easily reached by vehicle, that provide access to the eight trail segments that form a continuous loop in the mountains above the lake.
There is major trail access from:
Bear activity is high in this area. Keep (people) (pets) (property) safe. Keep bears wild. For more information on the BearWise campaign, visit the Recreate Responsibly page, or click on this link to learn how to be BearWise in the outdoors.
Success! A new password has been emailed to you.
