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An excellent run with lots of variety and stunning views.


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Map Key

9.9

Miles

16.0

KM

70%

Runnable

9,712' 2,960 m

High

6,446' 1,965 m

Low

3,266' 996 m

Up

3,266' 996 m

Down

12%

Avg Grade (7°)

45%

Max Grade (24°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

Overview

The route follows a ridge along the west side of Fallen Leaf Lake, before wrapping around to reach the summit of Mt. Tallac from the south. The trail offers incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the nearby peaks, a variety of terrain, and two swimming opportunities in small ponds along the way.

Need to Know

The second half of the trail offers very little shade. A day-use permit is required and can be picked up for free from the box at the trailhead.

Runner Notes

Extra care should be taken at the summit and on the scree field section, as there are a lot of jagged rocks.

Description

The trail is well-marked and fairly obvious except for at the very top.

Pick up your permit at the trailhead, and follow the trail along the ridge by Fallen Leaf Lake, enjoying the views of Lake Tahoe and Mt Tallac. The trail will pass Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake, which offer good opportunities for taking breaks and soaking your feet (or whole body!)

After Cathedral Lake, the trail turns west and becomes more exposed. Watch your footing on the switchbacks winding up the scree field, and enjoy the views of Jack's Peak and the surrounding area when you top-out.

The remainder of the trail winds through alpine meadows and eventually ends at the summit. If you stop at the top for lunch, you're sure to make some furry friends, so watch your food! The views from the summit are definitely worth stopping to take in.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mark Bradley

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 61 votes

#126

Overall
  4.8 from 61 votes
5 Star
82%
4 Star
16%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#12

in California

#126

Overall
28 Views Last Month
20,689 Since Oct 26, 2015
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
5%
7%
82%
5%

Photos

Lake Tahoe from Mt. Tallac
Oct 28, 2015 near South L…, CA
Amazing reflection of Mount Tallac in Floating Island Lake
Aug 26, 2017 near South L…, CA
Gilmore Lake and Susie Lake from Mount Tallac
Aug 26, 2017 near South L…, CA
Stunning views from Mt. Tallac.
Oct 28, 2015 near South L…, CA
Mt Tallac Trail
Oct 28, 2015 near South L…, CA
View from Mt Tallac Trail.
Oct 28, 2015 near South L…, CA
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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