Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DON'T MISS
HIKING & BACKPACKING THE DESOLATION WILDERNESS
south and west of Lake Tahoe and is the most popular in the Sierra Nevada. It's a 100-sq-
mile wonderland of polished granite peaks, deep-blue alpine lakes, glacier-carved valleys
and pine forests that thin quickly at the higher elevations. In summer, wildflowers nudge
out from between the rocks.
All this splendor makes for some exquisite backcountry exploration. Six major trail-
and Eagle Falls get the most traffic, but solitude comes quickly once you've scampered
past the day hikers.
Wilderness permits are required year-round for both day and overnight explorations.
Day hikers can self-register at the trailheads, but overnight permits must be either re-
served online (fee $6) at
www.recreation.gov
and printed at home, or picked up in person
at one of the three USFS offices in South Lake Tahoe and Pollack Pines. Permits cost $5
per person for one night, $10 per person for two or more nights.
Quotas are in effect from late May through the end of September. Over half of the per-
mits for the season may be reserved online, usually starting in late March or April; the
other permits are available on a first-arrival basis on the day of entry only.
Bearproof canisters are strongly advised in all wilderness areas (hanging your food in
trees will not work - these bears are too smart!). Borrow canisters for free from the USFS
offices. Bring bug repellent as the mosquitoes can be merciless. Wood fires are a no-no,
but portable stoves are OK. Dogs must be leashed at alltimes.
Activities
Hiking
Many miles of summer hiking trails start from the top of the
Heavenly Gondola
, many
with mesmerizing lake views. On the Nevada side of the state line,
Lam Watah Nature
Trail
meanders for just over a mile each way across USFS land, winding underneath pine
