Top 5 Waterfalls in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a heavenly place on Earth, attracting tourists from all over the world who come to experience its sublime beauty. One aspect often overlooked by visitors is the waterfalls in Lake Tahoe, which are true marvels of nature. These waterfalls act like the cherry on top of an already stunning landscape, enhancing the breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe.
In this blog, we'll explore the most beautiful and exciting waterfalls around Lake Tahoe, all from the eyes of a local. So, without further delay, here are the top 5 waterfalls in Lake Tahoe:
1. Eagle Falls
Located right across Highway 89 from Emerald Bay State Park (Emerald Bay State Park is a state park of California in the United States, centered on Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay, a National Natural Landmark.), South Lake Tahoe, Eagle Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls around lake tahoe.
Eagle Falls features two distinct sections referred to as the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls. These terms describe their respective positions along the course of the same waterway.
Lower Eagle Falls:
The Lower Falls is located further downstream and is often considered easier to access. It is around 1 mile easy to moderate hike. This section of the falls features a series of smaller cascades around 60 feet and 90 feet that flow over rocks. The Lower Falls is particularly popular because it's visible from the nearby roadside and requires less hiking to reach.
Upper Eagle Falls:
The Upper Falls is the section of Eagle Falls that is higher up the stream. It can be accessed via a short hike ( around a quarter of a mile) from the parking area near Emerald Bay on Highway 89. This part of the falls is known for its impressive drop, where water cascades over a cliff into a small pool below. The Upper Falls offers a beautiful view of Emerald Bay and Fannette Island, especially during the spring snowmelt when the water flow is at its peak.
2. Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls is another wonderful waterfall located across Inspiration Point, highway 89, South Lake Tahoe, CA.
At the far end of the Bayview Campground, 8 miles north of South Lake Tahoe along Highway 89 and across from Emerald Bay and Inspiration Point, you will find a parking spot. At the far end of this parking area, look for a Trailhead sign. The trail is moderately difficult and leads to Cascade Falls, which you can reach in approximately 40 minutes.
There are no significant elevation changes along the trail; however, there are some points that are a bit challenging to navigate due to the large rocks. Take your time while navigating this trail and you will be able to cross this section easily.
While heading to Cascade Falls, consider bringing a packed lunch to enjoy along the way. You can stop at various points to take in the scenery and then resume your journey to the falls. The breathtaking views from Cascade Falls, featuring large rocks with trees sprouting from them and relaxing vistas of the lake, offer an unforgettable experience.
3. Glen Alpine Falls
Glen Alpine Falls is a popular waterfall in Tahoe, attracting thousands of visitors every year. With its 65-foot series of layered drops and stair-like steps, this marvelous waterfall offers a picturesque site unmatched by other places in Tahoe. If you visit in the summer, you'll enjoy the strong scent of pine trees and abundant wildflowers. You can also get very close to the waterfall and feel the cascade on you.
It is located above Fallen Leaf Lake, near Lily Lake, along Fallen Leaf Lake Road, and can be easily accessed from Highway 89 which is about 3 miles from South Lake Tahoe. To easily access Glen Alpine Falls, continue on Fallen Leaf Road until you see the trailhead sign, turn left, and parking is available directly across from Lily Lake.
4. Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Tahoe region, featuring an 800-foot cascade. This magnificent waterfall can be seen from Highway 50 as you travel toward South Lake Tahoe, approximately 7 miles from Echo Summit.
The waterfall is fed by Pyramid Creek, which flows down steep granite cliffs shaped by glaciers in the Desolation Wilderness.
To reach Horsetail Falls, hikers can use the Twin Bridges trailhead or Pyramid Creek trailhead. This 1.5-mile trail is challenging and is recommended only for experienced hikers.
5. Shirley Canyon Falls
Shirley Canyon Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls, located at Squaw Valley, Lake Tahoe, CA. Visitors from around the world come to Tahoe to hike towards Shirley Canyon Falls.
The trail to access this waterfall starts at the Shirley Canyon Trailhead and becomes increasingly challenging as you progress, but the climb is well worth it. Once at the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Tahoe. The trail is approximately 4 miles round trip, and since it is somewhat difficult, caution is advised while attempting it.
Shirley Canyon features three main waterfalls: the first is the largest with a significant cascade, while the other two are smaller but still striking and worth the visit.
Additional Waterfalls
While these are our top 5 waterfalls in Tahoe, there are many other waterfalls around this area worth visiting. Some notable mentions include Fontanillis Lake Falls, Bassi Falls, Hawley Falls, and Upper Truckee Falls.
Conclusion
Lake Tahoe’s waterfalls optimize the region’s natural beauty and offer an unforgettable experience to visitors. The sight of water gushing down cliffs and over rocks, surrounded by forests and expansive views of Lake Tahoe in lovely weather, creates a perfect atmosphere for enjoying this heavenly place and capturing memories with your camera. These waterfalls reveal a side of Lake Tahoe that is unlike anything you've experienced before. So, be sure to visit the waterfalls from our list whenever you visit Lake Tahoe, especially in the summer.