Hike Title: Vistas, Lakes and Wildflowers: Echo Lakes to Wilderness Boundary
Description: Every Saturday during the summer, the Tahoe Rim Trail Association will feature a hike that highlights an amazing vista, a beautiful alpine lake or a meadow blanketed in beautiful wildflowers. All of the hikes begin at 8am. Please register for all TRTA guided public guided hikes by visiting this link.
Echo Lakes to Desolation Wilderness Boundary: Join us for a hike that begins at the Echo Lakes Trailhead at 8am on Saturday, July 23rd or try this hike on your own! If you would like to join the TRTA, please register here.
This hike follows the Tahoe Rim Trail from the Echo Lakes Chalet/Trailhead. Shortly after departing from the trailhead, we will round a switchback revealing wide views of South Lake Tahoe. We will then work our way past both Echo Lakes for about 2.4 miles, catching peeks at charming lakeshore cabins. The trail becomes steadily rockier as it progresses west from the trailhead. About .6 miles past Upper Echo Lakes is the Desolation Wilderness boundary and spectacular views of both Echo Lakes from above.
When you begin this hike you will be walking above the northern shore of Lower Echo Lake. There are some rolling ups and downs, and one can enjoy the magnificent granite formations and the beautiful blue lake. To the north you will notice Flagpole Peak at 8,363’ as it actually has a flagpole on top of it. The trail will continue on for a mile and then it will begin to ascend above quaint lakeside cabins. Here is where the footing and terrain becomes more challenging, because the trail becomes very rocky. Enjoy the views that spread out before you, and don’t forget to yell across Echo Lakes on a calm day. You may just hear your echo!
At 2.5 miles you will come to a junction. A left turn takes you on a short trail down to a pier, which provides access to Upper Echo Lake and the Echo Lakes Water Taxi. There is a small fee for this service, and it is a lot of fun. It will cut off 2.5 miles of your hike heading into or out of Desolation Wilderness. For more info on the water taxi, call the Echo Chalet at 530-659-7207.
From this junction, you can also continue to climb the TRT on even rockier terrain. Travel slowly and carefully, so you don’t turn your ankle. Trekking poles are helpful on this hike. As you ascend, you will be rewarded with incredible views of both Upper and Lower Echo Lakes. Notice the glacial carved granite and windblown trees.
At 0.6 miles from the boat taxi junction, you will arrive at the Desolation Wilderness Boundary. If you have a day permit, you can continue on. Otherwise, you need to turn around here if you want to avoid a fine. This is a great photo spot, so be sure to take some pictures before turning around and hiking back to the Echo Lakes Chalet & Trailhead. Treat yourself to ice cream and a cold drink after your hike at the Echo Lakes Chalet.
***Please note: Wilderness Permits are required to enter Desolation Wilderness for both day hikers and overnight backpackers***
Distance / Expected Duration: 6.2 miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate Difficult Strenuous Herculean
Starting Elevation: 7,400’ with another 700’ of elevation gain
Fitness Level and/or Special Skills Necessary: This is a popular hike, and you will see many people traveling this trail in flip-flops, which is not recommended. The climb from Echo Lakes is rocky, and a bit steep. It is important to wear good footwear and to be in decent physical condition before attempting this hike.
Water on the Trail: Water is available at the Echo Lakes Chalet, and we recommend carrying 1 liter of water for each person in your party.
Trailhead/s: Echo Lakes Trailhead: Turn N off Hwy 50 0.5 mi W of Echo Summit and follow Echo Lake signs 1 mi to paved lot. Vault toilets. Seasonal store has limited supplies.
From Incline Village / East Shore of Lake Tahoe / Cason City
Take 28 till hwy. 50 heading west
Go through South Lake Tahoe (those who know the Pioneer Road should take it to avoid South Lake Tahoe traffic)
At the Y (the intersection of 50 and 89) make a left staying on hwy 50.
Go Through Meyers and then stay on 50 up the hill
1 mile after the summit turn right onto Johnson Pass Road (there’s a sign saying Berkley Camp)
Take this road 0.6 miles to a junction
Turn left onto Echo Lakes Road
Go 0.9 miles to a large parking area.
From Reno
Take 395 South till hwy. 50 heading west
Go through South Lake Tahoe (those who know the Pioneer Road should take it to avoid South Lake Tahoe traffic)
At the Y (the intersection of 50 and 89) make a left staying on hwy 50.
Go Through Meyers and then stay on 50 up the hill
1 mile after the summit turn right onto Johnson Pass Road (there’s a sign saying Berkley Camp)
Take this road 0.6 miles to a junction
Turn left onto Echo Lakes Road
Go 0.9 miles to a large parking area.
From Truckee / West shore
Take 89 South into Tahoe City.
Go right at the traffic light and continue south on 89.
Go all the way to the Y (the intersection of 50 and 89) in South Lake Tahoe stay straight through the light (you are now on hwy 50)
Go Through Meyers and then stay on 50 up the hill
1 mile after the summit turn right onto Johnson Pass Road (there’s a sign saying Berkley Camp)
Take this road 0.6 miles to a junction
Turn left onto Echo Lakes Road
Go 0.9 miles to a large parking area.
From Folsom / Sacramento / San Francisco
Take hwy. 50 heading east
1 mile before the summit turn left onto Johnson Pass Road (there’s a sign saying Berkley Camp)
Take this road 0.6 miles to a junction
Turn left onto Echo Lakes Road
Go 0.9 miles to a large parking area
Hike smart this summer!
• Make sure you carry sufficient water and snacks.
• Dress appropriately for the weather. Bring layers of clothing. The weather changes quickly in the Sierra.
• Wear proper footwear. Take care of your feet to prevent blisters and other foot issues.
• Tell someone where you are going, and when you are expected back.
• Carry a cell phone that you can use to call for help, if you get into trouble.
• Pack a simple first-aid kit in your pack.
• Stay within the limits of your ability and let common sense be your guide before and during your adventure.
• Leave no Trace this summer! Follow the LNT 7 principles. Care for our wild places and trails!
Trail Etiquette
• Cyclists yield to hikers and hikers and cyclists yield to equestrians
• Always travel at a safe, controlled speed and alert other trail users as you approach from behind.
• Never approach or harass wildlife or domestic animals on the trail. Please do not feet wild animals. It negative impacts their health and survival.
• Stay on the trail. It’s there for a reason!
• Please do not pick wildflowers. Let everyone enjoy them. Some wildflowers are protected by law, and you could get fined for picking them.
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