Mount Tallac Loop

Amazing hike. Start early if you can, when it’s still a bit cool. I did this hike with my uncle during the summer, and we had no trouble staying on the trail from start to finish. The entire hike will take about six hours, plus or minus thirty minutes or so depending on speed.
Beware: this is quite a challenging hike. I’m in good physical shape and I was quite tired when we finally reach the summit. The hike seems to increase in difficulty as you go along — at first the trail is decently shaded and not too steep, but as you approach the shale section and summit, prepare to be tired. The shale section is particularly difficult due to very little to no shade, steepness, and there being loose rocks everywhere (no dirt on that part of the trail).
Just when you think you’ve surpassed the most difficult part, you’ll be required to climb up a large selection of boulders in order to reach the summit. The view at the top is absolutely breathtaking — you can see almost all of Tahoe and the surrounding areas.
At the top caution: there are many funny critters that live at the summit — mostly large marmots and chipmunks. They are extremely tame and will not hesitate to stalk you and attempt to snag your food! Keep an eye out — they’re mostly hilarious and will provide some comic relief at the midpoint of the hike.

This hike is no joke! Very grueling, yet rewarding. The loop is about 10 miles round trip with a lot of incline and rocky terrains. Allow yourself about 8 hours of hiking.
You must be prepared. Bring layers and plenty of water and snacks. I highly suggest you wear hiking shoes, or else you’ll be slipping.
The views are incredible! The summit showcases one of the best panorama views of Tahoe.

Hiked this on ⁸⁄₅ and it was great. Total round trip was 10.7 miles and it does get steep, but not too bad. Get up there and enjoy!

If your body can handle it, I highly recommend this hike to see the most beautiful view of Lake Tahoe. It took my boyfriend and I about 6 hours to do roundtrip! I recommend to pack per person 5 bottles of water, cliff bars, grapes/​apples and a lunch. Plus maybe a snicker bar or Gatorade for after the hike in a cooler in your car! Also recommend going in early morning around 7am, gets quite hot around noon-​2pm in the sun.

Beautiful hike. Plan for it to be a bit colder as you get past elevation. Not too bad of a hike. You can be a weekendwarrior

For all you weekend warriors, don’t underestimate this hike. You may have many 10 plus mile loops under your belt, but this is one that will kick your butt if you’re unprepared. I can’t stress enough to carry more water than you normally take on a hike. Take a small first aid kit, a change of socks, a bandana, plenty of snacks and a small bottle of ibuprofen. Altitude sickness packs a powerful punch in the form of a migraine.
The hike itself is over a rocky terrain for pretty much the whole hike. At the end of this hike, you’ll have a new appreciation for a dirt path. For all you that do however brave this challenging trail, the scenic vista from atop Tallac is simply breathtaking. Enjoy!〽

This hike is very difficult after Cathedral lake. It takes about 6 hours or so round trip. I have hiked to the top 3 times and i have got lost on the way down twice. I usually find my way after 10 minutes back to a trail. After cathedral, there seems to be 2 trails. Stay to the left, its much easier. From the trailhead you get great views of falling leaf, Cathedral and another little lake i think its called floating something… then when you get to the top there is like 5 or so lakes all around you. Cathedral seems to be the half way point. I took my kids once 2 and 7 and they made it to cathedral. Well, the 7 year old did… oh and i would not recommend going in snow cause you lose the trail and dont start hike after 12. You will be last one in wilderness and sun has gone down…

Omg! It was a tough trail! I’ve never hiked a trail that was that high 9,738Ft.
One thing I don’t like about Mt. Tallac Is there are too many loose rocks everywhere and it is very slippery when you go down.
I slipped twice coz I wore snickers and the trail was a pretty steep! I didn’t know how difficult a trail Mt. Tallac was. All of the loose rocks made me tired quickly but you could see some beautiful views!
Pointers for hiking
*You definitely need to bring a lot of water and some small snacks.
*Of course, you should wear a pair of mountain boots!
*don’t rush, take your time & rest in the shadow.
*keep thinking of positive ways.
*take some beautiful pictures of you!
Enjoy your hike!

It seems as if this space has filled with a recounting of both the loop and the line. The latter being the same trail up and back, as opposed to the super-​human feat that involves the true loop from Glenn Alpine.
If it’s OK with the rest of you, I’m sticking my line review here instead of being all hair splitty and making a separate page for hikes that aren’t a loop.
The last time I made this climb I left from my house in Oakland at dawn, met a buddy in Sacramento, climbed, had supper, drove home. One of the lovely aspects of Bay Area living that balances some of the other aspects is such frivolity. Wake up and think what am I going to do today I’m kind of bored then I know off to Tahoe you go and be home to sleep in your own bed at night. No wonder shacks here cost as much as castles other places.
Allow yourself 8 hours, though it isn’t too tough to do it in less. Sturdy footwear is advised, as there are in places stabbin rocks for days. One sandwich and a fruit and a bar should get you up and back no problem. Two quarts of water, though you can pack a filter and replenish at Cathedral if you’re inclined to lighten your load. Trail sufficiently well-​trod to accommodate a moonlit ascent.
Tallac is one of the most easily accessed tall-​ish peaks in the area and as a consequence during summer you won’t walk too many paces without being in eye-​shot of other humans. But it isn’t dense and isn’t frequented by the traditional flatlander so as a consequence the trail itself is fairly free of the debris the detritus so often deposit elsewhere. Dirty litter-​dropping people you are not welcome here.
The rest of you, please proceed.

Really fun, beautiful trail from Fallen Leaf lake to the top of Tallac. It was a little grueling with the altitude (coming from sea level) that in combination with the non-​stop sun, and steep climbs.
But, I’d highly recommend it and look forward to doing it again someday… when it’s a little cooler.

The highlight of this trail is that as you ascend you will be able to see all the lakes in the vicinity. One need not hike until the summit to get an awesome view. There are views all along and you can always loop back once you are exhausted and you will still not regret doing this trail.
How to get there:
If you are on Highway 89, and travelling towards South Lake Tahoe there is a sign board that says Mount Tallac Road. Take this road and you can get there in 5 minutes. For more information on the trail, I would recommend stopping at the Lake Tahoe Basin visitor center just a mile or two before the trail head.
Difficulty:
It is a 9.5 mile loop. Many claim that they have hiked up to the summit and back in 7 to 7.5 hours. Let me tell you something, if you are anything like me and not a pro in hiking you will need to take a lot of breaks in between and will take anything between 9 and 10 hours to do the entire loop up until the summit and back. The path gets very treacherous after the cathedral lake. It is a whole day hike!
Views:
The first great view you will get is of the entire ‘Fallen Leaf lake’. It’s a view from up above and you will not be able to go near the lake. If you proceed further there’s a small lake called the ‘Floating island lake’. You can feel the water and take a nice little break here while friendly chipmunks run all around. After this it is a long hike to the ‘Cathedral Lake’. Its another relatively small lake with a very pristine view. Another point where you can relax your feet and enjoy. You can see a lot of people picnicking here. Blue jays and chipmunks can be spotted near this lake. A lot of people return downhill after this point. Believe me when I say that that the path gets very treacherous beyond this point. More and more loose gravel along the trail. But there’s a little secret here. Beyond the cathedral lake, if you hike for about 20 minutes you will reach a point where there is an excellent view of Lake Tahoe, fallen leaf lake and cathedral lake. It may not be like the 360 degree view you will get from the summit but this view is amazing that we did not regret returning after this point. We are not pro hikers and we could not have withstood that last climb to the summit, so we returned.
Tips:
1. Trekking poles are a must. At least one per person, if not two.
2. Bring lots of water and food.
3. Do not trek on a day with a thunderstorm forecast. We were lucky and missed it by a day! :)
4. Get a permit at the trail head before proceeding. It is a must because the trail goes through the Desolation Wilderness area.
5. Will definitely not advice to take small kids beyond the cathedral lake.
Overall experience:
Simply awesome and overwhelming!!!

Absolutely beautiful. Starting the hike at pretty decent elevation is a bit of a struggle at first if you live down at sea level, but overall, very doable!
This hike was a little challenging especially considering that we began at night and had never hiked this trail before. So we were just going off of instinct this point.
The views continuously become better and better and with each climb you’re rewarded with great views! Eventually when you reach the summit, you’re just in awe of how beautiful everything is. It’s a bit windy, so be sure to bring a wind jacket with you :)

What a hike! It’s strenuous, but doable. There were so many times I wanted to quit, but I’m glad I didn’t. The view is gorgeous from every angle and I think it’s worth it, but I don’t think I would do it twice in one year.
It took us 3 hours to get up and 3.5 hours to get down. The hike is super rocky and getting up is difficult and steep, meaning the way down is just as hard. I heard it’s better in the summer, but the trails were terribly marked. My group of 5 got lost a little bit due to minimal snow coverage, but eventually made it back down. Hiking sticks would be very helpful on the way down.
As you you hike, you will pass by two small lakes/​ponds. After the second lake/​pond, you will later reach a large plateau like area and you will see a daunting mountain ahead. As you hike up this mountain, there will be two paths. One is the «short cut» and the other one is the «regular way.» We thought we were taking the «regular way» until we got to the top (whoops!). The «short cut» requires you to go on all fours. You know you’re on the «short cut» when it’s a steep hill of rocks. If this is too daunting for you, take the trail on your left to get up.
But wait, the trail doesn’t stop here! You’ve reached another plateau-​like area and you will of time to hike North. You’ll eventually see the last stretch, in which you get to the top by climbing over large mounds of rocks!
We came on Memorial Day and the weather was nuts. It was hot, it was cold, and it started sprinkling! The unpredictable weather together with the elevation got me really sick by the end of the hike. Most of my mountain sickness symptoms had gone away by the time I reached El Dorado Hills, but my headache lingered throughout the night.
Mount Tallac was challenging and although I got sick, I think the view was worth it. My only suggestion would be to come with walking sticks, take mountain sickness medication (if needed), and come in the summer when the paths are more clear.
The views are a 5 star, but I rated this hike 4 stars due to the convoluted path.

This is one of the most difficult hikes in the Tahoe area, at least in terms of elevation. It’s especially challenging during the winter month’s as the weather can change and be quite different at the top versus the bottom. Our hike had dry and cool conditions at the start of the hike and a lot of snow and wind near the summit. The trail is fairly well identified. As you keep going, there are parts of the trail that will branch off and depending on which way you go, it can get less traveled and a bit primitive. There is also a «short cut» that basically goes straight up the mountain whereas the trail will wind back and forth. The short cut is extremely difficult and even dangerous as you at some point have to crawl up and stay close to the ground as it is so steep and the footing loose rock. The trail is overall worth the hike and has some beautiful views of Lake Tahoe. It is also challenging to the hiking enthusiasts due to its length and climb. I had a blast but must admit that there were times that I was concerned during the hike as well, so looking back and doing a review afterwards is a lot better now.

«Strength is the product of struggle»
Mt. Tallac (
):
* 7.50 hour Hike
* 3000+ calories lost
* Parts of the trail was covered by snow
* Forgot sandwiches
* Low in water and sometimes no water
* Cramps, sore muscles, cuts and bruises
* Didnt have proper gear (e.g. hiking boots, hiking poles, and gaiters)
Note: The Trail was closed due to natural hazards (e.g. snow, rock falls, and more snow)
This trail is truly a gem in Lake Tahoe… However, under every beautiful gem or discovery has its challenges or filters (e.g. beautiful photos, beautiful women, beautiful writing, beautiful engineering – cars and bikes, code etc). In other words, this trail can be extremely strenuous if you are not mentally and physically prepared. In my opinion, if you do not acclimate properly (at least 1-​day before) and arrive from SF or Sacramento and immediately jump onto the trail you might have a «difficult» or «amazing» time (i.e. some people can adapt well with sudden altitude changes and some just need time to adjust).
I think i’m fit or at least healthy, i run 2 miles every day and lift; use to be a competitive tennis player (13-​years); completed a 100-​mile bike century @ Davis; trail running 10k @ Pacifica; did a few ‘bay to breakers 12k @ SF’ stuff; finally, encountering dehydration and the downfalls of competitive sports (e.g. injuries and emotional losses), but hiking is a whole different playing field. I mean i’ve done Yosemite and Upper Falls Hike 4x (
), but Tahoe can be extremely unpredictable especially at this altitude (6480 – 9735 feet).
I’ve done this hike before with friends, but didnt finish it due to time constraints; but hiking in March is a whole different challenge when the snow makes the trail almost non-​existent. I remember this trail had a series of switchbacks but none of us could identify it. We encountered maybe 15 other hikers and 2 – 4 back-​country skiiers and they just went straight up. Essentially, we just used our best-​judgement and followed other foot trails to ascend and descend the mountain.
If you are planning to come here around March, hike light!!! Weigh your gear in grams; bring trekking poles with snow baskets and proper footwear (e.g. hiking boots or trail running shoes). Dont be like us, we didnt expect there to be any snow and little did we know… One of was smart enough to bring hiking boots, good job David K.
Besides the hike, it’s a really beautiful and zen like trail. I hope my pictures can paint a better perspective and give you an idea what sort of views to expect. Posting one final photo to end this review – thanks Mt. Tallac for the great memories. Much respect to all the avid hikers, skiiers, and trail runners.
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Recap:
⁵⁄₅ – once you complete it you will be thankful for its scenic views.
My Gear:
**Backpack w/​water bladder–
**Water-​filter (you can fill near some of the streams) —
/*used the filter once when returning to the car and it was totally worth it. */​
**Trekking poles–
**Footwear-​my trail running New Balance shoes were torn up due to snow
**Gaiters – Bring it just in case or stash it (didnt have one but saw a lot of hikers equipped with gaiters)
**Jacket – Bring it! Thanks Sugoi =D (
)
**Sunglasses– Bring it
**Sunblock-​Bring it no matter what!
**Advil after the hike– optional
**Power bars, gels, pj sandwiches, jerky –Yes bring it and share the weight if you’re in group
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A super challenging hike that takes around 6 hours start to finish. But when you get to the top… words cannot describe what awaits you.
All I can say to describe it, is that it feels like you are bear hugging the entire world at 9,738′ above sea level.
Make sure to pack plenty or water, snacks, and bars, and enjoy an amazing lunch once you get to the summit.

O.M.G! These were the first letters that came out of my mouth when I first encountered the breath taking view. No matter where you are on the trail, there is always a beautiful view. Its practically a 360 degree view of natural beauty. After an hour into our hike, we saw our first magnificent scenery. Definitely breath taking. We had a view of Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake, and the mountains which had some snow at the peak. We made it right in time for sun rise and I am so happy we did. Besides the water view, we also had views of the gigantic, yet gorgeous, trees. Beautiful views are everywhere on this hike.
My boyfriend and I began our hike hoping it wouldn’t be too difficult for us. It wasn’t at first, but after 3 miles into the hike our physical ability and mentality were tested. It was definitely a struggle hiking up the mountain. It was steep and the path was covered with nothing but rocks. We had to catch our breath every so often. This hike is definitely not for beginners. Think twice before thinking you can do it!

What a gorgeous view. Stunning.
I had been heard of the view for a long time, and I finally climbed here.
It’s a good workout (from the last junction at Gilmore lake, about 1700 feet, but steep), but rewarding at the top.
I did this as a part of my backpacking loop. Started at Fallen leaf Lake-​Lake Aloha-​Clyde Lake-​then left big backpack at the junction and hiked up the Mt.Tallac.
Definitly 5 stars.

Coming from Vegas with an elevation of 2300ft, i had a couple days to adjust to Lake Tahoe’s 6000ft plus some. To compare your athleticism (and help everyones aspect on how rough the hike is), I run a mile and a half in around 12 minutes which is not fast at all. It took me 3 hours to get to the peak and an hour and a half back down to the car with a mixture of walking and jogging.
(Started hike at 0750, reached peak at 1100, 1 hour lunch, drove off at 1330)
Not sure how many miles this hike is round trip but the 3^rd to last mile is probably the steepest and roughest part you will encounter. You will know when you have passed it when you get to the top where theres nothing but plains and a beautiful view of mountains behind Mt. Tallac.
As far as stepping up on rocks, the highest ones i encountered were a 20inch and 30inch height wise.
It was a little chilly during the morning of mid September when i did this hike, but still warmed up easily after the first mile with only a T-​shirt and shorts.
Dont worry about animals unless you are afraid of squirrels and chipmunks. Got to see about 50 of them during the trip.
Gear carried: protein bars, oatmeal cookies, gatorade, 1 liter camelpak, Smith&Wesson knife, sunscreen (needed most the last 3 miles), and my ContourROAM2 videocam attached to my hiking stick.
If you think this hike was rough and wanted more, look into hiking Middle Teton which i conquered round trip in 14 hours. (12.800ft. elevation)

The trailhead is approximately 3.5 miles north of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 89. You will go through Camp Richardson, about a mile up the road on the right when you see the mount tallac trailhead sign, take the left at the large sign. There are signs to help guide you up to park and the trail head. The road turns into a single lane road but there is plenty of parking once you arrive. Here are some tips to help make the hike as comfortable as possible for you.
1. Good comfortable shoes. Wear something that has good ankle support if needed. I was in trail sneakers and was fine.
2. Bring wet wipes, there are no bathrooms along the way. Make a pit stop in town before you decide to hike.
3. Bring snacks and plenty of water
4. Clothes that you can transition into. As you climb you will get sweaty, however at the summit it’s fairly windy and cold
5. Sunscreen!!!
6. Good sunglasses and a hat for shade if needed.
7. Remember as you climb up the air is getting thinner so there isn’t as much oxygen as you may be use to
8. The trail is well worn except ¾ of the wAy up the trail you can get a little confused but once you find the way you will be good to go. Don’t lose the trail and go early in the morning, you don’t what to be stuck up there at night. It took my energetic bunch 6 hours to do.
Hope these tips help and enjoy the hike