The One-Of-A-Kind Trail In Northern California With Waterfalls And Lakes Is Quite The Hike

Don't you just love when a hiking trail checks all the boxes? That's exactly how you'll feel about the Eagle Lake Trail located above scenic Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe. This short, family-friendly trail leads you through the forest, over a waterfall, and straight to a gorgeous alpine lake. It's a perfect adventure no matter the season, so check this one out for your next outing at Lake Tahoe! Come see why this is one of the best hikes in Northern California:

Some hiking trails have it all, like the Eagle Lake Trail in Desolation Wilderness above Lake Tahoe. Boasting sweeping views of Emerald Bay, a waterfall, and a pristine alpine lake at the end, this hike is jam-packed with natural splendor!

Not only does the trail boast non-stop beauty, but it's short and easy, too. At just about 2-miles-long and only 459-feet of elevation gain, it's a great hike for families and hikers of all skill levels. The Eagle Falls/Eagle Lake Trailhead is easily found along Highway 89 next to the parking area.

Be sure to grab a free wilderness permit before setting off. Departing from the Eagle Falls Trailhead, you'll head southwest and into the wilderness. The trail climbs gently before arriving at a set of stone steps along the granite mountainside.

After climbing the steps, you'll soon come across one of the area's most stunning natural features: Eagle Falls. Cascading down the mountainside, the waterfall is absolutely majestic. A lot of hikers choose to turn around here, but you can continue on for a lot more scenic beauty.

Continuing past the waterfall, you'll come across a fork in the trail after about a half-mile. Follow the trail to the right to be led directly to Eagle Lake, a small but pristine alpine lake that rests below North Maggie's Peak.

Since so many hikers tend to turn back at the falls, the lake is typically serene and free of crowds. In the summer, nothing beats taking a quick dip in the lake's cold waters. Otherwise, you could spend hours sitting on the shore and soaking it all in.

After you've spent enough time at the lake, you can simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead. A short hike that most anyone can do, the Eagle Lake Trail makes for a fantastic outing at beautiful Lake Tahoe!

Have you completed this one-of-a-kind hike in Northern California? We love trails like this that are jam-packed with beauty! What would you call the best hikes in Northern California Share your thoughts with us in the comments!