It’s the first weekend of summer and the weather is awesome. The weather has been nothing short of odd for the past month. I had the urge to get away from a long week of being in an office. Lake Tahoe was calling my name. Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite places I have been too. Although, in the recent past years, it has been getting to a point where I avoid South Lake Tahoe because of all the tourists and traffic.
Lake Tahoe is my go-to when I feel like hiking and being away from a lot of people. More specifically, I like going to Desolation Wilderness because there isn’t a lot of people and the lakes in the area are pristine. If you haven’t been, I would definitely recommend you put it in your bucket list.
First, it’s definitely going to be busy. Second, there is going to be lots of traffic. Third, there is going to be a little to no parking in most areas. With that said, time to have a great weekend in Lake Tahoe.
The Trails
If you are going to be in this area, do both Maggie’s Peak and Cascade Falls as these trails are connected. Maggie’s Peak trail goes into the Desolation Wilderness from the Bayview Trail. The other, Cascade Falls, is in the opposite direction. Both trails start at the same trailhead, Bayview Trailhead, in South Lake Tahoe.
The Bayview Trailhead is about a little under a 2.5-hour drive from Sacramento when there is no traffic. At about 110 miles, Lake Tahoe is one of the places I frequently visit every year. Definitely, visit Lake Tahoe.
The road trip here is straight forward and then curvy after Placerville. During traffic times and weekends, Placerville gets congested. As you approach Highway 89 in Lake Tahoe, there are tons of cyclists up and down these hills. Watch for the hairpin turns as well.
Once you arrive at the Bayview Campgrounds and Parking, the trailhead is just off the lot. This is easily missed. Parking is very difficult during the day as this area is highly popular. Cell Phone service is very limited as well.
Maggie’s Peak
In order to get to Maggie’s Peak, you will need to utilize the Bayview Trail. The Bayview Trail is a major trail in Desolation Wilderness. Make sure you obtain a 1-day pass at the trailhead.
The total length to Maggie’s Peak and back is 3.6 miles that starts at around 6,781 feet and peaks at 8,772 feet. That’s a total of 1,761 feet in under 2 miles which is a good amount.
The beginning of this trail is the uphill battle to Granite Lake. This trail has a plentiful amount of shade that features lots of pines trees and creeks. A majority of this trail is going uphill and then back down.
Once at the Lake, you hike up to the saddle and then up to the peak. The trail can be misleading at some places but the majority of the trail is easy to follow. Additionally, there will be backpackers here and there in Desolation Wilderness.
Once at the top, enjoy a great view of South Lake Tahoe. It’s an extremely beautiful sight from the top. Towards the South, you can also see Mount Tallac. Additionally, you can see Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Lake, and Granite Lake. Truly one of the best views in South Lake Tahoe. After reaching the peak, make your way back down to the trailhead.
Trail: Granite Lake & Maggie’s Peak
Cascade Falls
Early in the season, Lake Tahoe is covered in snow. Snowmelt brings a lot of water to the area so it’s a good time to visit Cascade Falls late Spring and Early Summer.
In the opposite direction of Maggie’s Peak, follow the sign that points to Cascade Falls at the Bayview Trailhead. Lastly, the total length to Cascade Falls and back is 1.4 miles with a little up and down
On the way to the falls, you will scramble a few boulders here and there. Once you are near the falls, make sure you see it at an angle. At the falls, take a break in shade and admire Lake Tahoe.
After reaching Cascade Falls, head back to the parking lot. Notably, it’s a relatively short hike and I would say it’s an easy one.
Trail: Cascade Falls
Overall
This area is extremely popular. If you do plan to come to this area, make sure you arrive before 8 AM. Ultimately, it will determine your level of satisfaction of the hike in terms of the number of people come here as well as the weather. Nonetheless, this is a very beautiful place to visit and I definitely recommend coming. Also, this area is dog-friendly which is a major plus for me.
Quick Links
Directions/Trailhead: Bayview Trailhead
Trail: Granite Lake & Maggie’s Peak
Trail: Cascade Falls
Information: Desolation Wilderness
