Sure the 3,500ft elevation gain is greater than you might experience on most day hikes, but both the journey and the destination are worth every single thigh-burning step. I’m not sure if it was due to how sleepy I was when we began the hike or if I just wasn’t that observant, but I noticed all types of new scenery on the way back down the mountain. There is free parking at the trailhead, though I wouldn’t be surprised if it fills up on especially busy days. The sheer beauty was overwhelming. Used crampons to get up to the ridge but didn't feel the need to use my ice axe. - June to October is the best time to hike Tallac. 3/4 of a mile from the flat "saddle" along the Tallac ridge begins a harrowing hike across angular irregular boulders that requires good balance and steady feet. Basics: Mount Tallac is a 10 mile hike (out and back) with approximately 3500 ft of elevation gain. The trail then wraps around Mount Tallac’s broad south shoulder, opening to brilliant views of the Desolation Wilderness with the Crystal Range and Pyramid Peak dominating the skyline. Eventually the trail veers back easterly as it nears the summit ridge and then climbs up rocky talus to the summit. Difficulty: Multiple Trails: Easy, Moderate and Difficult Elevation: 6480′ / 9735′ Mileage (one way): 1.7 to 5 miles. The trail begins peacefully with a gradual incline that takes you through a beautiful shaded area. We did not have chains or snow gear, just hiking boots and thick clothes for cold so we decided to not risk it by going to summit. Mt. In some ways, hiking all the way up to Tallac, which is quite a steep hike (more on that here), and back down to Gilmore with a full pack is a terrible idea.In other ways, it’s a great idea. The main trailhead is just a few miles west of South Lake Tahoe, though this peak can also be reached from Gilmore Lake and other areas deeper in Desolation Wilderness. One of the most famous hikes in the area, and easily the best sunrise view, is from Mount Tallac in South Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re doing it as a day hike or turning it into a multi day adventure in Desolation Wilderness, this post will help you plan and prep for an amazing hike up Tallac! The trail is steep and rocky but the reward is all worth it. Search the internet for information about the winter Spring Creek Trail ascent for more details. Tallac you’ll likely want to enjoy some of these other fun things to do in Tahoe. The trailhead is located off route 89 just a few minutes north of the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. Sometimes my posts contain affiliate links, and if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Tallac from reading Kevin Gong's Hiking Pages, where he rated this hike a perfect "10." Snow and rocky boulders to summit, no problem. Mount Tallac is one of the tallest peaks in Tahoe at 9,735 feet and the loop from the Glen Alpine Trailhead at 6,500 feet is a long, strenuous 11.6 mile hike. After that it was fine to continue to the summit in just boots. The top half of the route has almost no shade, is slow going, and the high-altitude air feels very dry. In snowy conditions, it is possible to climb to the summit and back down without seeing another soul along the trail. Mt. Tallac Hiking Trail. One member of our group tripped on a rock and some basic gauze and tape would have been helpful. stay safe! The Mount Tallac trail features … They had stopped at this lake to shed a layer of clothes off. Mount Tallac is a mountain peak southwest of Lake Tahoe, in El Dorado County, California.The peak lies within the Desolation Wilderness in the Eldorado National Forest.It is quite visible from State Routes 89 and 28, and U.S. Route 50.A "cross of snow" is clearly visible on the mountain's face during the winter, spring, and early summer months. Looking forward to seeing the trail without snow in the summer but look forward to skiing it when it gets more snow! The trail then goes up to a ridgeline that parallels Fallen Leaf Lake, and it is an incredible area to hike. It is quite visible from State Routes 89 and 28, and U.S. Route 50. Mt Tallac via summit trail (9738’) - II Date: 06 Aug 2016 Duration: 6 hrs or more depending on speed. Mount Tallac Trail is a 10.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near South Lake Tahoe, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. After we passed the lake, the hike started to become fairly challenging. This route takes you to the top via the most direct summer route through lush forest, along scenic ridgelines, past small alpine lakes and across blazingly colorful wildflower strewn high-altitude meadows. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: ~10 miles round trip Elevation gain: 3500’ Trail: Mt. Mt. Tallac Hiking Trail. Hiking Mt. There's FREE parking at the Glen Alpine Trailhead & one toilet. Along the way you’ll enjoy sweeping views over massive Lake Tahoe, two peaceful forest lakes, and a dramatic talus field as you climb 3,500 feet in five miles to reach one of the tallest summits around. Tallac Hiking Basics 10.5 mile out & back hike 3,500-foot elevation gain. Sitting at 9,738’, Mt. 79 Reviews (530) 573-2600 Website. If you are not comfortable in the mountains you should probably stay away until the snow melts. The top of Mt Tallac is giant boulders that make a great place to bask in the sun and have a nice summit snack. A wilderness permit is required. Like another review already said make sure you start early due to the spring like snow conditions. Summit is only for real expert climbers with big snowshoes and ice axe reachable. Tallac is a mountain peak and a dog-friendly hike just southwest of Lake Tahoe. A hike to the summit of Mt. This trailhead is also where you will pick up your free self-serve permit. Tallac and drink in 360-degree views of the gorgeous Desolation Wilderness. There's FREE parking at the Glen Alpine Trailhead & one toilet. Be sure to register your day hike in the Desolation Wilderness area. At about 1.8 miles you’ll reach small Floating Island Lake, a nice place for a snack break. Learn what you need to know before you go from Travel Nevada. My Salomon Cross Hikes performed great. In snowy conditions, it is possible to climb to the summit and back down without seeing another soul along the trail. Second guess your clothing. It’s unhealthy for them and makes them even more aggressive with future hikers. 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