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A short run with a lake, optional swimming, and superb view.


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Map Key

4.0

Miles

6.4

KM

58%

Runnable

8,477' 2,584 m

High

6,820' 2,079 m

Low

1,657' 505 m

Up

1,656' 505 m

Down

16%

Avg Grade (9°)

53%

Max Grade (28°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

Overview

Maggie's Peak (8,699 feet) towers above Cascade Lake at the edge of Desolation Wilderness, granting panoramic views over much of the Lake Tahoe rim as well as many of the surrounding peaks and lakes in Desolation. Though not as popular as nearby Mount Tallac, this peak is a slightly easier alternative because it requires less distance and elevation gain. It is also a great day hike for those unable to backpack further into the Desolation backcountry. With a combination of an alpine lake, swimming option, and the superb views, this run packs a lot of bang for your buck!

Need to Know

Wilderness permit required, but these are free and available to fill out at the trailhead. The parking area at the trailhead is small and fills up quickly. If you find it full, you may be required to park off of Highway 89, which adds about a quarter mile of walking each direction to your distance. Do not park in the camping area unless you pay for a campsite. Outhouses are available at the trailhead parking area. The nearest drinking water is at Inspiration Point across Highway 89 from the Bayview Trail road.

Description

From the Bayview trailhead, take a right (left is Cascade Falls Trail) and start up steep switchbacks. In about a mile you'll reach the wilderness boundary and then a ridge with big views of Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay.

You'll soon hit Granite Lake, a small alpine lake nestled in the shadow of the peak. The trail stays above the water, but you can trivially hop down to the lake for a swim, or this could make your destination if you're looking for a short run. Continuing on the far side of the lake, more switchbacks take you up to a saddle in about one more mile.

From the saddle on the Granite Lake Trail, take a left on the Maggie's Peak Summit Spur and wander through open forest and boulders to the summit. The final off-trail scramble requires about 250 feet of elevation gain before reaching the peak, where a rugged crest of granite stands stoically on top. Enjoy huge views of Mt. Tallac, the Crystal Range, and of course Granite Lake, Emerald Bay, and Lake Tahoe.

Once you've taken your time to appreciate your gorgeous surroundings, turn around, and head back down the Granite Lake Trail to return to the trailhead and your vehicle.

Contacts

Shared By:

Nick Wilder with improvements by Jesse Weber

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 11 votes

#3

in Lake Tahoe

#1038

Overall
  4.5 from 11 votes
5 Star
64%
4 Star
27%
3 Star
9%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Lake Tahoe

#165

in California

#1,038

Overall
22 Views Last Month
17,370 Since Aug 17, 2016
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
18%
0%
82%
0%

Photos

Looking out at Cascade Lake and Lake Tahoe shortly before sunset.
Apr 9, 2018 near South L…, CA
Looking down on Cascade Lake.
Jan 25, 2016 near South L…, CA
Looking over Emerald Bay
Nov 2, 2020 near South L…, CA
Eagle Lake and surrounding peaks taken during the early morning. From Granite Lake Trail in Lake Tahoe.
Sep 10, 2017 near South L…, CA
Climbing up out of Bayview.
Aug 18, 2016 near South L…, CA
Sunset over Phipps Peak
Nov 24, 2017 near South L…, CA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 89 days ago
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Sep 22, 2017
Michelle Lovette
4.7mi
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