Tahoe Rim Trail

The Tahoe Rim Trail is a 175 mile loop trail around the rim of Lake Tahoe, the trail was originally 165 miles but some reroutes and new construction has added a few miles in recent years.  This trail is very unique as it is relatively new and unlike other trails, it was well funded during its construction and management and the best trail construction techniques were used.  Besides the Appalachian Trail I cannot think of trail that is as well marked as the TRT.  The trail has a mostly gentle grade and is multiuse allowing hikers, horses and mountain bikes.  The bikers we met along the way were generally courteous and pulled over to allow us to pass.  The trail also has other benefits, the permits are very easy to get, in fact you only need one for Desolation Wilderness and you can pick it up at the start of your hike in South Lake Tahoe from the USFS for $5.  The trail crosses roads at regular intervals so if you want a burger for lunch you can simply hitch a ride down to the lake and get back to the trail the same way.  At each road crossing the Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) who manages the trail has free segment maps of the next section with mileage and information.

I hiked this trail with my loyal dog Karluk and my 3 friends “Freefall, “SoFar” and “Sweet Potato”. Freefall describes this trail as the Niemen Marcus of long distance trails because of the combination of benefits listed above. Our first two days found us in 90 degree temps with little water to be had (we cached water before we started on the NV side of the trail). By our third day the weather changed and we found ourselves in below freezing temps, 60+mph winds and snow, lots of snow. Luckily the nearby amenities and a half rest day in Tahoe City allowed us to get some extra gear and regroup to finish a successful hike. If you are looking for a trail that can provide a true hiking vacation this is a great choice the combination of wilderness and amenities blends nicely for the working stiff looking for hike over 1-2 weeks. Enjoy these photos form our hike and when you are done make sure to join the TRA and become a member of the 165 mile club, you can learn more at TRTA’s website https://www.tahoerimtrail.org/