PALISADES TAHOE HIKING TRAILS
Some of the most famous hikes in the region start right in The Village at Palisades Tahoe. Visit our Hiking Palisades Tahoe page for trail status, a full list of all of our hiking trails, and tips for how to make the most of your hike!
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TOP HIKES IN NORTH LAKE TAHOE
North Lake Tahoe has some of the region's best hiking, and most of the trails are right in our backyard! Scroll through to read about our top Lake Tahoe hiking trails.
Eagle Rock
Distance: 0.7 miles
Elevation: 239' gain/loss
Directions to trailhead
If you're looking for a short hike with spectacular views, this is the hike for you. You'll ascend a steep but well-traveled trail to the top of Eagle Rock, where you'll have an incredible view of Lake Tahoe. Don't wander too close to the edge, as there is quite a large dropoff. rich-text, responsive-table
Stateline Lookout
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation: 400' gain/loss
Directions to trailhead
Cross over into Nevada for a hike that is friendly for all skill levels. This 1.5 mile hike takes you up to a fire lookout with a stunning view of Lake Tahoe. This trail is a great option for families (and dogs are welcome, too!) rich-text, responsive-table
Shirley Canyon Trail
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation: 2,109' gain/loss
This is one of Lake Tahoe's best half-day hikes. Hike alongside waterfalls (early summer season only), granite boulders, and the high alpine Shirley Lake. To access the trailhead, park in the main Olympic Valley parking lot and walk to the end of Shirley Canyon Road. This trail is marked, but remember the general rule is to keep the creek on your right and follow it up for about 2.5 miles until you come to giant granite rock slabs. You will cross over this section and continue up to Shirley Lake. Hike back down the way you came or continue to High Camp and ride the Aerial Tram down to the base for free. Check out our full guide to hiking Shirley Canyon. rich-text, responsive-table
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation: 2,109' gain/loss
This is one of Lake Tahoe's best half-day hikes. Hike alongside waterfalls (early summer season only), granite boulders, and the high alpine Shirley Lake. To access the trailhead, park in the main Olympic Valley parking lot and walk to the end of Shirley Canyon Road. This trail is marked, but remember the general rule is to keep the creek on your right and follow it up for about 2.5 miles until you come to giant granite rock slabs. You will cross over this section and continue up to Shirley Lake. Hike back down the way you came or continue to High Camp and ride the Aerial Tram down to the base for free. Check out our full guide to hiking Shirley Canyon. rich-text, responsive-table
Mt. Judah Loop
Distance: 4.8
Elevation: 1,220' gain/loss
Directions to trailhead
Climb to Donner Peak and enjoy the striking views of Mt. Rose, Truckee, Donner Lake, and Coldstream Canyon. The Mt. Judah Loop Trail starts on the Pacific Crest Trail and connects all the way to Olympic Valley via the Granite Chief trail for those looking for a longer hike. rich-text, responsive-table
Monkey Rock
Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation: 489' gain/loss
Directions to Trailhead
Starting off in Incline Village, the trail up to Monkey Rock is wide and well-maintained leading to outstanding views of Lake Tahoe's east shore. After taking in the vista and finding the rock that resembles a monkey's profile, head back down the way you came. You can extend the hike by continuing along the East Shore Trail and finding your way down to the shore at Hidden Beach. rich-text, responsive-table
Pinedrop Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation: 141' gain/loss
Directions to trailhead
Head to the North Tahoe Regional Park in Tahoe Vista to access several hiking & biking trails, as well as a playground, sports fields, and a dog park. The Pinedrop Trail is an easy, beautiful option with a paved path if you'd like to accommodate a stroller or wheelchair. rich-text, responsive-table
General Hiking Tips
Summer Hiking Safety
Helpful Hiking Apps
Summer Hiking Safety
- During thunderstorms, stay away from ridge tops, tall trees, and large rock outcroppings as they can attract lightning strikes.
- Please respect Tahoe’s beautiful natural environment by observing all signs and staying on designated trails and roads. Do not cut switchbacks. Stay out of any construction or roped-off areas.
- No smoking, please. The fire danger in this area is very high during the summer.
- Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Many of the mountain trails traverse rugged terrain.
- Tahoe’s mountain environment is prone to sudden weather and temperature changes so please carry adequate clothing.
- Bring plenty of water (never drink directly from a stream) and a snack or energy bar.
- Always use sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses for protection from the high-altitude sun.
- Do not hike alone. It is fun and safer when done with a group.
Helpful Hiking Apps
- Palisades Tahoe App - Download the Palisades Tahoe app to access summer hiking maps, track hiking performance, find your friends on hiking trails and more!
- AllTrails - Over 100,000 trail maps plus reviews and photos crowdsourced from hikers and bikers.
- Trailforks - Over 130,000 trails contributed by users and approved by local trail associations.
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Walking + Hiking TRAILS
Hike through meadows covered with wildflowers and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Tahoe.
The Summer Experience
Surrounded with sun-drenched views of Lake Tahoe, summer at Palisades Tahoe is perfect for nature lovers.
Aerial Tram
Take a scenic Aerial Tram ride to High Camp with views of Lake Tahoe. Once you're up top, enjoy the Olympic Museum, the Washoe Display, dining experiences, and other free activities.