Walking and Hiking in Desolation Wilderness
Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe, United States is a paradise for walkers and hikers seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. With its diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas, this wilderness area offers a plethora of walking and hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an avid hiker or a casual ...
Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe, United States is a paradise for walkers and hikers seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. With its diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas, this wilderness area offers a plethora of walking and hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an avid hiker or a casual walker, Desolation Wilderness has something to suit your needs. From the stunning Vista point to the numerous viewpoints scattered throughout the park, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to behold. The park's amenities provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable walking or hiking activity in the heart of nature.
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Things to See in Desolation Wilderness
Best Walking Routes in Desolation Wilderness
#1 - Upper Eagle Falls - Eagle Falls Trail (17E03)
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 31m
Upper Eagle Falls - Eagle Falls Trail (17E03) is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 423.1 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2 - Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33)
Length: 9.8 milesEst. Time: 2h0m
Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33) is a 9.8 mile (23,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 3388.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3 - Bayview Trail
Length: 2.7 milesEst. Time: 46m
Bayview Trail is a 2.7 mile (6,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1423.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
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Reviews of Desolation Wilderness
Challenging route. Very rocky in some parts. Hardest part is between Cathedral Lake and the ridge. Beware the false summit, you still have a bit to go. But the views are really incredible. Once you hit the ridge it’s paradise all around.
Difficult hike..bring Gatorade or any electrolyte drinks other than water. Bring something to eat for fuel.
See All Reviews (13)
See All Reviews (13)
Desolation Wilderness Leaderboard
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Lake Valley State Recreational Area South Lake Tahoe Recreation Area FAQs About Desolation Wilderness
Where is the best place to walk in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe?
The best place to walk in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe is the PCT - California Section K, which is a 58.7-mile route with a rating of 4.0. This route is highly recommended by the Pacer community for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
How many routes are in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe?
There are a total of 11 routes in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe, offering a variety of lengths and difficulty levels for walkers and hikers to explore.
Which is the longest route in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe?
The longest route in Desolation Wilderness in South Lake Tahoe is the PCT - California Section K, spanning 58.7 miles. This route provides a significant hiking challenge and is highly regarded by the Pacer community for its stunning views and diverse terrain.
Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Desolation Wilderness?
Desolation Wilderness is a primitive area with minimal facilities. Walkers and hikers should be prepared for a rugged and undeveloped environment with limited amenities. It is important to bring your own supplies, including water, food, and navigation tools.
How accessible is Desolation Wilderness?
Desolation Wilderness is accessible by foot or horseback. There are no roads, vehicles, or bicycles allowed within the wilderness area, providing a remote and pristine experience for walkers and hikers. Permits are required for both day use and overnight stays, and trailhead access points vary in difficulty and distance.
What kind of sports can I do in Desolation Wilderness?
Desolation Wilderness offers opportunities for activities such as hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, and nature observation. Visitors can explore a network of trails that traverse rugged terrain, leading to stunning viewpoints, pristine alpine lakes, and unique natural features. It's important to be well-prepared and adhere to Leave No Trace principles while enjoying these activities in the wilderness.
What is the best season to hike in Desolation Wilderness?
The best season to hike in Desolation Wilderness is typically from late spring to early fall. This is when the weather is more predictable, the snow has melted, and the trails are more accessible.
What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Desolation Wilderness?
Visitors to Desolation Wilderness should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Summers are generally mild with warm days and cool nights, but sudden thunderstorms are common. Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, making travel more challenging.
What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Desolation Wilderness?
Desolation Wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, mountain lions, and various bird species. Hikers should be prepared to encounter these animals and take appropriate precautions to minimize potential conflicts.
Last updated: Dec 1, 2025
Parks Near Desolation Wilderness
Lake Valley State Recreational Area South Lake Tahoe Recreation Area Latest Check-ins at Desolation Wilderness
therealmira102Jul 3, 2025
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Total Check-ins at Desolation Wilderness
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Desolation Wilderness
#1- Upper Eagle Falls - Eagle Falls Trail (17E03)
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 31m
Upper Eagle Falls - Eagle Falls Trail (17E03) is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 423.1 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2- Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33)
Length: 9.8 milesEst. Time: 2h0m
Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33) is a 9.8 mile (23,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 3388.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3- Bayview Trail
Length: 2.7 milesEst. Time: 46m
Bayview Trail is a 2.7 mile (6,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1423.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#4- Maggies Peaks - Bayview Trail (17E04)
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 29m
Maggies Peaks - Bayview Trail (17E04) is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 623.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#5- Rockbound Trail (16E08)
Length: 7.5 milesEst. Time: 2h16m
Rockbound Trail (16E08) is a 7.5 mile (17,000-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1253 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#6- Triangle Lake Trail
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 15m
Triangle Lake Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Echo Lake, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 465.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#7- 2000B
Length: 0.1 milesEst. Time: 2m
2000B is a 0.1 mile (287-step) route located near Echo Lake, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#8- 16E06A
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 30m
16E06A is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 134.5 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#9- 16E31.2
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
16E31.2 is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#10- PCT - California Section K
Length: 58.7 milesEst. Time: 16h12m
PCT - California Section K is a 58.7 mile (135,000-step) route located near Homewood, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 7658.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#11- Lyons Creek Trail
Length: 4.9 milesEst. Time: 1h10m
Lyons Creek Trail is a 4.9 mile (11,000-step) route located near Lower Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1577.7 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#12- Tahoe Yosemite Trail
Length: 9.8 milesEst. Time: 2h32m
Tahoe Yosemite Trail is a 9.8 mile (22,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 2522.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#13- 17E11.2
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 26m
17E11.2 is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Echo Lake, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 482.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#14- Rubicon Trail (16E30.2) (Historical)
Length: 1.8 milesEst. Time: 30m
Rubicon Trail (16E30.2) (Historical) is a 1.8 mile (4,000-step) route located near Homewood, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 16.4 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#15- Red Peak (15E08.2)
Length: 4.8 milesEst. Time: 1h15m
Red Peak (15E08.2) is a 4.8 mile (11,000-step) route located near Jones Place, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1426.8 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#16- McConnell Lake Loop
Length: 6.4 milesEst. Time: 1h28m
McConnell Lake Loop is a 6.4 mile (15,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1495.7 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#17- Tamarack Trail
Length: 3 milesEst. Time: 51m
Tamarack Trail is a 3 mile (7,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1748.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#18- Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33)
Length: 6 milesEst. Time: 1h52m
Floating Island / Mount Tallac Trail (17E33) is a 6 mile (14,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 3047.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#19- Velma Trail (17E34)
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 31m
Velma Trail (17E34) is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 642.9 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#20- Echo Peak Trail
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 32m
Echo Peak Trail is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 528.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#21- Eagle Falls Trail
Length: 4 milesEst. Time: 1h50m
Eagle Falls Trail is a 4 mile (9,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1784.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#22- Phipps Lake Trail
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m
Phipps Lake Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#23- Rubicon Trail (16E30.2)
Length: 11.7 milesEst. Time: 3h48m
Rubicon Trail (16E30.2) is a 11.7 mile (27,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 150.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#24- Climbers Trail to Eagle Lake Buttress
Length: 0.7 milesEst. Time: 12m
Climbers Trail to Eagle Lake Buttress is a 0.7 mile (1,500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 879 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#25- Mount Tallac Trail (17E33B)
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m
Mount Tallac Trail (17E33B) is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 216.5 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#26- Twin Lakes Trail
Length: 3.1 milesEst. Time: 54m
Twin Lakes Trail is a 3.1 mile (7,000-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1154.6 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#27- 16E21
Length: 1.3 milesEst. Time: 22m
16E21 is a 1.3 mile (3,000-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 164 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#28- Glen Alpine Trail
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 39m
Glen Alpine Trail is a 2.3 mile (5,500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 987.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#29- Red Peak Stock Trail (16E31.1)
Length: 3.5 milesEst. Time: 59m
Red Peak Stock Trail (16E31.1) is a 3.5 mile (8,000-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 701.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#30- Rubicon Peak Trail
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 29m
Rubicon Peak Trail is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1620.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#31- 17E06.1
Length: 1.5 milesEst. Time: 25m
17E06.1 is a 1.5 mile (3,500-step) route located near Tahoma, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 13.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#32- Margery Trail
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m
Margery Trail is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Echo Lake, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 36.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#33- Grass Lake Trail (17E06A)
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m
Grass Lake Trail (17E06A) is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Echo Lake, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 269 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#34- Eagle Meadows Trail
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 16m
Eagle Meadows Trail is a 1 mile (2,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#35- 17E05
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m
17E05 is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#36- Schmidell Trail (16E28)
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m
Schmidell Trail (16E28) is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#37- Tyler Lake Trail
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 33m
Tyler Lake Trail is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near Upper Forni, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 846.2 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#38- Upper Velma Lakes Trail
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
Upper Velma Lakes Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#39- Half Moon Lake Trail (17E31)
Length: 1.9 milesEst. Time: 33m
Half Moon Lake Trail (17E31) is a 1.9 mile (4,500-step) route located near South Lake Tahoe, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 249.3 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#40- Blakely Trail (16E07)
Length: 3.9 milesEst. Time: 1h13m
Blakely Trail (16E07) is a 3.9 mile (9,000-step) route located near Emerald Bay, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 1161.1 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#41- Genevieve Trail
Length: 3.6 milesEst. Time: 1h45m
Genevieve Trail is a 3.6 mile (8,500-step) route located near Homewood, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 232.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
