DESCRIPTION

What's not to like about this one? Incredible views of the Desolation Wilderness, a rolling, well-maintained trail, and the cool, crisp air of the High Sierra. This in an out-and back run along the Tahoe Rim Trail towards (and sometimes into) the Desolation Wilderness. You can make this trip as long or as short as you wish - there's even an option to take the Water taxi back the last 2 miles!

Leash-free dogs are OK but be prepared to leash them to pass hikers who request it. Also be sure your dog can handle very rocky trails.

There are pit toilets at the trailhead then some useful shrubs about 2 miles in, past Lower Echo.

Be prepared for changing conditions - both hot and cold.

Take US HWY 50 out of South Lake Tahoe, through Myers, towards Sacramento. Turn RIGHT at the sign to Echo Lakes, just after Echo Summit. (The turn is onto Johnson Pass Road in Little Norway.) Take a left onto Echo Lakes Road about 1/3 of a mile up. Follow Echo Lakes Road all the way to the end at Echo Lake Cabin, right beside the lake. This is a narrow road so be cautious and watch out for oncoming traffic and for pedestrians. The parking lot at the trailhead fills early but there is an overflow lot about 1/2 mile back up the road.

We usually carpool from Lira's Market.