Glen Alpine Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Moderate and Difficult (Multiple Trails)
Elevation: varies by route
Mileage (one way): 2-6 miles

Directions to Trailhead: Take Highway 89 north approximately 3 miles from South Lake Tahoe to Fallen Leaf Lake Road. Watch for bicyclists and other cars on this narrow, one-lane road. Continue until you see the Glen Alpine trailhead sign and turn left. Trailhead parking is across from Lily Lake.

Trail: Many different hikes can be taken from this trailhead. For a short walk, take the southern spur 3 miles to Grass Lake or stretch the hike to 6 miles all the way to Lake Aloha. This spur leads you past a small waterfall, a beautiful meadow and three alpine lakes. Another moderate spur takes you to Half Moon or Alta Morris Lakes. A third spur takes you to Gilmore Lake and then on to Dicks Pass. Or, at Gilmore Lake, you can head up Mt. Tallac. The Glen Alpine Trailhead offers a more moderate approach to the strenuous hike up Mt. Tallac, Lake Tahoe’s signature peak.

Attractions and Considerations: 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 Glen Alpine Trailhead.

Useful Map Information: USDA Forest Service map: Lake Tahoe Basin Mgnt. Unit: R.17 E. T. 12 N.
Other Trialheads : Grass Lake: 2 miles / Susie Lake: 4 miles / Heather Lake: 5 miles / Lake Aloha: 6 miles / Half Moon Lake: 5.5 miles / Alta Morris Lake: 5.5 miles / Gilmore Lake: 3.9 miles / Dicks Pass: 5.4 miles / Mt. Tallac: 5.7 miles