Top 20 Lakes around South Lake Tahoe
Lakes around South Lake Tahoe are situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering a landscape shaped by glacial activity. This region is characterized by its clear alpine lakes and surrounding national forest land. The area provides diverse natural features, including granite formations and pine forests.
Best lakes around South Lake Tahoe
- The most popular lakes is Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness), a lake that is about halfway along the trail to Fontanillis and Dicks Lakes. It is an alpine lake surrounded by granite peaks, offering a serene atmosphere.
- Another must-see spot is Granite Lake, a lake located at the base of Maggies Peaks. The trail to Granite Lake is a steep climb, providing views of Emerald Bay.
- Visitors also love Emerald Bay, a lake with vibrant emerald-green waters. This area includes Fannette Island and the Vikingsholm Castle.
- South Lake Tahoe is known for its alpine lakes, glacial lakes, and natural monuments. Visitors can explore a variety of lake environments, from large bodies of water to smaller, secluded spots.
- The lakes around South Lake Tahoe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 35 upvotes and 27 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness)
Highlight • Lake
Dicks and Fontanillis lakes are separated by only about a third of a mile. Both lakes press up against 9,374-foot Dicks Peak. Nearby are the Velma Lakes, a cluster of 3 great fishing lakes that draw the majority of campers who come up the trail from Tahoe.
Eagle Falls Trailhead to Bayview Trail Junction, 2.7 miles
From the Eagle Falls trailhead the hike up to and across a bridge and then begin a steady climb. Stop half way up to catch a view of Emerald Bay. In less than a mile, a side trail splits off to Eagle Lake. Take the Velma Lakes trail.
Despite occasional dips and level spots, most of the hike is uphill, many parts of it with steps. After 2.7 miles arrive at a ridge top and an intersection with the Bayview trail.
Velma Lakes
Bayview Trail to Dicks Lake or Fontanillis Lake,
1.75 miles or 2.5 miles
Continue toward Velma Lakes for 0.7 miles until you spot a trail sign which points you toward Dicks Lake. The trail soon climbs again with switchbacks. Look for views of Velma Lakes to the north. After a mile you strike the Pacific Crest Trail. There, turn right, heading southwest. Very soon, where the trail loops back to the north, you will spy Dicks Lake off through the trees. Follow a short side trail to the lake. By continuing north on the main hiking trail for 0.75 miles you arrive at half-mile-long Fontanillis Lake. Both make excellent places to camp.
highsierratrails.com/fontanillis_dicks_lakes/trail.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desolation_Wilderness
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Granite Lake
Highlight • Lake
From the Bayview Trailhead (about 2100 m) head northwest from the trailhead sign board. The trail will climb steeply the entire way. You will pass a great viewpoint for views of Emerald Bay before reaching Granite Lake. The trail continues to climb after Granite Lake before reaching the ridge crest giving you a view of Eagle lake off the back side. To summit South Maggies Peak continue on the trail a short 100 yards after reaching the ridge and then turn off trail and scramble up the back side of the peak. There is a faint trail but its hard to find from the trail and can be found for the return trip off the summit.
You can create a loop hike by combining this hike with Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake. Once you reach the ridge just below South Maggies peak. Continue up the trail along the ridge. At the next trail junction turn right onto the Eagle Falls Trail.
A wilderness permit is needed to hike to both Granite Lake and Maggies Peaks. Wilderness permits are available for free at the trailhead.
How to get there:
From South Lake Tahoe: head north on highway 89 for 7.5 miles. Turn left into Bayview Campground opposite Inspiration Point which is the scenic overlook located one mile before you get to Emerald Bay. A wooden sign points right to the trailhead on the backside of the campground.
From Tahoe City: head south on highway 89 for 19.5 miles. Turn right into Bayview Campground opposite Inspiration Point which is the scenic overlook located one mile before you get to Emerald Bay. A wooden sign points right to the trailhead on the backside of the campground.
trailwiki.org/wiki/Granite_Lake_and_Maggies_Peaks
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Emerald Bay
Highlight • Lake
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Lower Echo Lake
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Cascade Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
Hiking around Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay offers amazing views of the bay's vibrant emerald-green waters, more vibrant than other parts of the lake due to its shallow depth. Visitors can explore Fannette Island, home to the remains of a teahouse, and tour the old 1929 Scandinavian-style Vikingsholm Castle. The Eagle Falls Trail provides a scenic 2-mile hike to Eagle Lake, while the Rubicon Trail hugs the bay’s edge with stunning lake views. Emerald Bay also has California's first maritime heritage trail, showcasing sunken ships and barges. Nearby, the Tallac Historic Site offers a glimpse into Lake Tahoe’s early 1900s history. This area has a ton to do, and hikers can easily spend the whole day exploring.
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A stunning alpine lake surrounded by granite peaks, offering breathtaking scenery and a serene atmosphere. Enjoy the clarity of the lake, ideal for fishing, or simply admiring its beauty.
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This backcountry gem is right on the path to and from Maggie's Peaks — a great opportunity to take a relaxing dip or just enjoy the beauty if you want to keep running past.
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Cascade Falls is a popular, 200-foot waterfall close to Cascade Lake. The trail to get to the waterfall is moderately challenging, but you are rewarded with a beautiful waterfall and tranquil spot for a break.
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Discover impressive Cascade Falls, a must-see in South Lake Tahoe. Spectacular 200-foot high waterfall and Cascade Lake views. Great place to stop and eat lunch after a short hike.
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It is possible to stop for a swim in this like, very nice on the way down from Maggie’s peak
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Eagle lake is worth the way up… you can see birds and it’s really charming. And you can swim easily in it, which is absolutely amazing on the way down from a long hike in the Desolation Wilderness…
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Echo Lake is close to South Lake Tahoe with a big parking lot, so expect lots of people here. There is a small shop and restrooms next to the parking area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic lakes around South Lake Tahoe?
Beyond Lake Tahoe itself, which is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and majestic mountain backdrop, other highly scenic lakes include Emerald Bay, known for its vibrant green waters and Fannette Island. Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness) also offers stunning views with granite peaks reflecting in its waters.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities near South Lake Tahoe?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. Emerald Bay is a great option with its historical sites and easy trails. Pope Beach on Lake Tahoe is known for its serene setting and is ideal for relaxation and picnics. Fallen Leaf Lake also provides a peaceful environment for families with opportunities for swimming and easy recreation.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The lakes around South Lake Tahoe offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, running, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. For specific routes, you can explore MTB Trails around South Lake Tahoe, Running Trails around South Lake Tahoe, and Easy hikes around South Lake Tahoe.
Which lakes are good for hiking and offer rewarding views?
Many lakes are excellent for hiking. The trail to Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness) is popular, offering a refreshing dip in cold alpine waters. Granite Lake, located at the base of Maggies Peaks, involves a steep climb but rewards hikers with views of Emerald Bay and the surrounding wilderness. Cascade Lake also features a moderate trail leading to Cascade Falls with views of the lake and distant Lake Tahoe.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' lakes to visit?
Fallen Leaf Lake, located just a mile south of Lake Tahoe, is often considered a hidden gem. It offers similar natural beauty to Lake Tahoe but with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful escape. Echo Lakes also provide a less crowded wilderness experience and serve as a gateway to the Desolation Wilderness.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around South Lake Tahoe?
The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is warm and all activities like hiking, swimming, and boating are accessible. Early summer is particularly good for seeing waterfalls like Cascade Falls at their most robust due to snowmelt. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing around lakes like Echo Lakes.
Are permits required for hiking to certain lakes?
Yes, a wilderness permit is needed for hiking to lakes within the Desolation Wilderness, such as Eagle Lake and Granite Lake. These permits are often available for free at trailheads like Bayview Trailhead.
Can I go swimming in these lakes?
Yes, many of the lakes are popular for swimming. Lake Tahoe itself has numerous public beaches like Pope Beach. Fallen Leaf Lake, Angora Lakes, and Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness) are also great spots for a refreshing dip in their cold alpine waters.
What historical sites or natural monuments can I find near the lakes?
Near Emerald Bay, you can explore the historic Vikingsholm Castle, a Scandinavian-style mansion from 1929, and Fannette Island with the remains of a teahouse. The Tallac Historic Site also offers a glimpse into Lake Tahoe’s early 1900s history. Many lakes, like Cascade Lake, are natural monuments formed by glaciers, featuring impressive granite formations and pine forests.
Which lakes are suitable for boating or kayaking?
Lake Tahoe offers extensive opportunities for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Fallen Leaf Lake is also excellent for both motorized and non-motorized boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Echo Lakes are popular for kayaking and canoeing in their clear, cold waters.
Are there any lakes with waterfalls nearby?
Yes, Cascade Lake is fed by the impressive Cascade Falls. A moderate hiking trail leads to the falls, providing beautiful views of Cascade Lake and distant Lake Tahoe. The best time to visit is in spring or early summer when the waterfall is most robust from snowmelt.
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