Bayview Hiking Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 6910′ / 8440′
Mileage (one way): 1 to 5 miles
Directions to Trailhead: To reach the Bayview hiking trail take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately 8 miles to the Bayview Campground across from Inspiration Point. Parking is located at the far end of the campground where you also have the option to hike to Cascade Falls.
Trail : Bayview hiking trail is challenging yet rewarding. From the get go you are hiking upwards with no real flat areas to speak of. You will definitely be working those leg muscles. You gain a lot of ground quickly so the Lake Tahoe views start to come into play. As you will see in the photo gallery below the trail offers magnificent views of Emerald Bay and Lake Tahoe. Take time to rest at Granite Lake or take a quick swim before heading up. Here the trail gets steep, but navigable as you enter a number of switchbacks. The forest setting is stunning with boulders, tall pine and random wildflowers along the trail. At the top of Maggie’s Peak take in the views of Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe and Eagle Lake. Continuing on you will hike into parts of Desolation Wilderness where additional hiking trails await. If you want a hiking challenge, Lake Tahoe views and wonderful forest setting then this should one to put on your list of South Lake Tahoe hiking trails to tackle. The hike to the top of Maggie’s Peak can be easily done in two to three hours depending on your pace and number of stops along the way. Enjoy!
Attractions and Considerations: Corral and watering facilities for horses are available at the Bayview trailhead. A wilderness permit is required. Day hikers, pick up your permit at the self serve area at the trailhead. Overnight hikers will need an overnight permit for Desolation Wilderness. This permit must be purchased before you get to the Bayview Trailhead.
Useful Map Information: USDA Forest Service map: Lake Tahoe Basin Mgnt. Unit: R.17 E. T. 13 N.
Other Trialheads : Granite Lake: 1 mile / Dicks Lake: 5 miles
Photo Gallery
Map / Directions
Parking at Bayview Campground
