01
Best overall pick
Tahoe Rim Trail from Tahoe City
Near Tahoe City • Signature Ridge-And-Forest Trail • Best For First-Time Visitors
A classic stretch of the Tahoe Rim Trail with sweeping lake views, flexible distances, and an easy drive from Sunnyside.
Starting just outside Tahoe City, this segment lets you hike as far as your legs and daylight allow, with plenty of logical turn-around points. The trail quickly climbs into mixed forest and open ridges where Lake Tahoe fills the horizon. Go early or late in the day for cooler temps and quieter miles, and bring layers—the breeze on the exposed sections can surprise you even in midsummer.
02
Best mellow option
Paige Meadows Loop
Above Sunnyside • Gentle Meadow-And-Forest Loop • Best For Relaxed Strolls
An easy network of trails through open meadows and pines that feels surprisingly quiet given its quick access from Sunnyside neighborhoods.
Paige Meadows is where locals head for wildflowers, fall color, and low-key sunset walks without a long drive. The paths are mostly flat with just enough rolling terrain to feel like a real hike, making it friendly for mixed-ability groups. Expect big sky, soft trails underfoot, and plenty of spots to stop and watch the light change over the surrounding ridges.
03
Best quick wow-factor hike
Eagle Lake Trail
Emerald Bay • Short Steep Alpine Lake Hike • Best For Time-Crunched Days
A punchy climb past a waterfall to a granite-ringed alpine lake, delivering outsized scenery for the time and effort.
From the Eagle Falls trailhead above Emerald Bay, the route wastes no time gaining elevation over stone steps and polished granite slabs. In under an hour of steady hiking, you’re sitting beside a clear mountain lake with dramatic peaks rising all around. Parking fills early on summer weekends, so locals either start at dawn or roll in later in the afternoon when the day-hiker rush thins out.
04
Best workout with waterfalls
Shirley Canyon Trail
Olympic Valley • Waterfall Canyon Climb • Best Challenging Ascent
A rugged canyon hike that strings together cascades, polished granite, and big views as it climbs toward the high country above the ski resort.
Shirley Canyon feels wild despite starting near the base area at Palisades Tahoe, with the trail hugging the creek and crossing slickrock slabs. The route is steep and sometimes rough underfoot, but frequent waterfalls and pools tempt plenty of breaks on the way up. Many hikers turn around at the upper cascades, while strong parties continue toward the upper mountain or link with lift access when operations and policies allow.
05
Best half-day adventure
Five Lakes Trail
Alpine Meadows • Steady Climb To Alpine Lakes • Best For Solid Hikers
A sustained climb from Alpine Meadows Road to a cluster of small alpine lakes tucked between high ridges.
The Five Lakes Trail gains most of its elevation right out of the gate, switchbacking up a sunny slope that rewards a moderate, steady pace. Once you crest the main climb, the trail levels out and threads between a handful of tranquil lakes, each with its own little granite perch or shoreline. It’s a favorite for a long, lazy lunch and a swim on hot days, but bring plenty of water—shade is patchy on the ascent and the sun can be intense.