- Summit Lake Trail is a 4.5-mile easy out-and-back trail in North Lake Tahoe that’s perfect for beginner hikers.
- Trailhead is located off Boreal Ridge Rd, just off Highway 80.
- The trail offers stunning views of the lake and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.
- The trail has a little elevation gain of 400 ft and is great for young children or dogs on their first hike.
Summit Lake Trail is a 4.5 miles trail located in North Lake Tahoe that is perfect for beginner hikers. The trailhead is located just off Highway 80 off of Boreal Ridge Rd.
The entire trail is an easy out-and-back hike with a little elevation gain of 400 ft. This makes it the perfect place to take young children or dogs on their first hike.
The views of the lake are breathtaking and there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife along the way.
What to Be Aware of On the Summit Lake Trail:
The walk under the Highway 80 overpass may be muddy, especially if you are there as the snow is melting.
Also, the first part of the trail is a little rocky, so prepare the correct hiking boots/shoes so as to be safe.
The Trail
Summit Lake Trailhead
Check out Eagle Falls Vista Loop Point for another easy hike!
You will go one mile on the Pacific Crest Trail Access Trail and another mile on the actual Pacific Crest Trail. The Access Trail will take you on a journey through a tunnel that is located under I-80.
The first section of this hike is generally flat, and as you pass through a second-growth forest, you will be able to see several ancient trees and extensive underbrush. This is a great hike for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore all that the forest has to offer.
As you approach the intersection, you will notice a wooded area off to the right. After passing through this area, you will find yourself in a lovely field full of wildflowers. This is a great spot to have a picnic or take some pictures.
Tip: The wildflowers are usually in bloom from spring through summer, so any time during that period would be a good time to visit this spot.
You will reach the southernmost point of Summit Lake by taking a second right turn at the next crossroads. This turn will take you through a more woodland area, eventually leading you to your destination.
Hikers can also continue to head towards the trail around the Lake if they have the energy. The route continues north to the ridge’s highest point which features amazing granite formations at the 3000-foot-below summit.
Parking Information
At the Summit Lake trailhead, which is also one of the Pacific Crest Trailheads, parking is free of charge from May 30 to October 31. This makes it convenient for those who wish to explore the area on foot or by bike. There are several trails in the vicinity, so it’s easy to find one that’s suitable for your level of fitness.
Between November 1 to May 30, a Sno-Park Permit is mandatory for vehicles parking at the trailhead of this route, which is situated within a California State Sno-Park. For more information, visit: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30735
FAQs
Q: Where is Summit Lake located?
A: Summit Lake is located in North Lake Tahoe, just off Highway 80 off of Boreal Ridge Rd.
Q: Is the Summit Lake Trail suitable for beginner hikers?
A: Yes, the Summit Lake Trail is an easy out-and-back hike with a little elevation gain of 400 ft, making it perfect for beginner hikers.
Q: Is there a parking fee at the Summit Lake trailhead?
A: No, parking is free of charge at the Summit Lake trailhead from May 30 to October 31.
Q: What is the route of the Summit Lake Trail like?
A: You will start to trek 1 mile on the Pacific Crest Trail Access Trail and another mile on the Pacific Crest Trail, passing through a tunnel under I-80. The first section of the hike is flat, with ancient trees and underbrush visible in the second-growth forest.
My husband and I love to fish at Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, and we can often be found taking visiting friends and family on boat trips around the lakes.
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