Echo Lakes – Lake Tahoe Hiking Trails
The view of the Lake Tahoe Basin from Echo Lakes
The Echo Lakes trail is one where you can do pretty much whatever length hike you want – whether you’d like more of a leisurely 2.5 mile trip to the far end of Upper Echo, or a more strenuous 6 mile hike up to Lake Aloha. In fact, there are a variety of trails to other beautiful alpine lakes beyond Echo. You could also choose to take the 4 mile climb to Tamarack, 5 miles to Lucille and Margery, or 5 miles to secluded Lake of the Woods. This is a moderate hike, and difficulty mostly depends on how far you feel like going. Whatever you end up doing, you’re guaranteed to have amazing backcountry views the whole way. Another great sight that shouldn’t be missed if you’re doing this hike is the view of the entire Lake Tahoe Basin, which can be seen from an overlook about 500 yards from the start of the trail. You can find an excellent trail guide at the trailhead.
The trail is popular in both summer and winter, as the summer months lend perfect weather for a refreshing dip in one of the lakes, and in winter the road closes so you can cross-country ski or snowshoe. The trail is a moderately rocky, rolling trek that’s almost entirely shaded along the Tahoe Rim Trail towards Desolation Wilderness. Nestled in between some of the highest peaks in Lake Tahoe, the crystal clear waters of Echo Lake provide an encouraging sight.
In the summer months, the water taxi over Echo will cut 2 to 3 miles off your trip, which is perfect if you’re a little winded on your way back. The water taxi runs from Labor Day to Memorial Day, and more information about it can be found at the Echo Chalet Homepage, or by calling (530) 659-7207. Day-use wilderness permits are available at the trailhead, and dogs are allowed off leash. To get to the Echo Lakes Trailhead, take Highway 50 to Echo Summit and turn on Johnson Pass Road; stay left and the road will take you to the parking area at Lower Echo Lake.
Lake Tahoe: Echo Lake to Aloha Lake and Beyond at EveryTrail
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