Don’t let a little winter weather stop you from hitting the trails in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Strap on those snowshoes or crampons and enjoy the best hikes our mountain paradise has to offer.
Martis Creek Wildlife Area
Located off of HWY-267 in Truckee, just south of Martis Dam Road (heading toward Northstar), you’ve probably seen cars parked here many times. Take advantage of this familiar location and stop to enjoy the scenery sometime- you won’t regret it. The trail is a 4.1 mile easy to moderate hiking loop through meadows. It is a dirt trail alongside the creek but features a wood platform over the creek and marsh. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the valley, Northstar and all of the surrounding mountains. The trail weaves past a stream, through the meadow, into the forest and back towards the road. There is also a quiet little spot with picnic tables near the stream to have a peaceful lunch. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash. Just remember to be a good human and pick up after your pup.
Chickadee Ridge
The hike that will give you all the feels by surrounding you with birds that eat from your hand, beautiful pine trees and epic views of the lake. The 1.8 mile hike up to Chickadee Ridge from Mt. Rose Meadows is moderate and sure to wow everyone. This trail gets its name from the tiny birds that descend onto visitors’ hands given the chance. Bring some birdseed to entice these feathered friends and you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale. The views of Lake Tahoe and the Toyaibe National Forest aren’t too shabby either.
Eagle Rock
This takes 1st place for most rewarding view for the least amount of effort. The ¾ mile trail is fairly steep, but leads up to some of the best sweeping views that Lake Tahoe has to offer. You’ll be mesmerized by how much of the lake can be viewed from this vantage point, so make sure you take advantage with lots of photos. You should definitely bring crampons to do this hike, as the trail can be icy in winter conditions.
Donner Summit Train Tunnels
This hike offers something a little different with cool art, some history and amazing views. Drive west from Donner and right before the Rainbow Bridge, park in the pullout where you’ll see the trailhead. First, you’ll find petroglyphs carved into the rocks (if the snow levels aren’t covering). Stunning views of Donner Lake will follow- photo op! Next, you’ll find a little piece of history through the abandoned train tunnels built by the Chinese laborers in the 1860s. Today, the tunnels are full of colorful graffiti done by local artists, as well as others from around the country and world.
Stateline Fire Lookout
Talk about monumental views! We’re saving the best for last with this one. This hike allows you to gaze over Crystal Bay to South Lake Tahoe, the entire west shore and wrapping all the way up to Kings Beach. The hike is 1.7 miles round trip up a paved path to a historic fire lookout above Stateline and boasts panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Be sure to walk along the outer trail at the top to catch every perspective. This hike offers the perfect vantage point for both sunrise or sunset. You’ll learn a little along the way as well, with placards to educate visitors about the history of the Lake Tahoe region. This one’s a local favorite, rightfully so.
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