- The round trip to Lake Aloha from the Glen Alpine trailhead is 12.5 miles.
- Lake Aloha is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear blue water, and picturesque islands.
- Limited parking is available, so an early start is recommended to secure a spot.
- Dogs are allowed on the hike but must be kept on a leash.
- Campfires are not permitted in the Desolation Wilderness area.
From the Glen Alpine trailhead, Lake Aloha is a popular climb because of the stunning views it offers. It is one of the harder hikes in the region, however, checking in at 12.5 miles round trip.
The lake is located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains and is a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.
One of the most picturesque locations in the Sierras has to be Lake Aloha. The lake is big but shallow, and the water is crystal-clear blue. There are also several little islands in the lake that make it even more picturesque. It is also surrounded by stark white granite slick rock mountains with sparse flora.
The rough terrain and lack of vegetation make this an inhospitable place for most animals, which is why it’s one of the best places to see bighorn sheep in their natural habitat. They tend to live where other animals just cannot.
Shirley Canyon to High Camp is also great for your backpacking adventure!
The Trail Route
The journey from Glen Alpine to Lake Aloha is a lovely climb via streams and waterfalls, passing a few more picturesque lakes, Susie and Heather Lakes.
The lake is usually covered in snow for more than half of the year but is relatively accessible for around four months in the summer and fall. Many people take the 5-mile trek during these times as it is highly popular.
The trip will take you through Glen Alpine, a historical valley in the western part of Fallen Leaf Lake. This is where the first resort in the Tahoe region was built, though it is now long since deserted. You’ll be able to see the remains of this once-popular destination and learn about its history during your visit.
The journey offers breathtaking, ever-changing scenery. The varied habitats along the way offer particularly plentiful wildflowers. This makes for an enjoyable experience for all who take this journey.
Tips and Hiking Policies
If you want to avoid the hassle of limited parking, it’s advised that you get an early start. However, you should be prepared for a lovely long day spent relaxing at one or more of the lakes. This way, you can enjoy your time without having to worry about finding a parking spot.
Be sure to take enough food and water for this 12.5-mile round-trip hike.
A number of different routes diverge to reach various locations further in the Forest along the Lake Aloha trail. The trail is lined with beautiful flowers, and there are many places to stop and take a break along the way. It is a well-liked backpacking destination because it is easily accessible on a day trip.
Dogs are allowed on the hike with you but must remain on a leash.
Campfires are not permitted anywhere in the Desolation Wilderness area.
Also, bear canisters are not just recommended but required for hiking in this area.
If you are planning to camp overnight, contact the Placerville Ranger Station in Camino, CA to reserve a wilderness permit ($6 reservation fee plus $5/person for the 1st night, $10 more than 1 night). Make sure to check this link here to see up-to-date information about permits for the area.
FAQs
Q: How long is the round-trip hike to Lake Aloha via Glen Alpine?
A: The round-trip hike to Lake Aloha via Glen Alpine is 12.5 miles.
Q: Can dogs join us on the hike?
A: Yes, dogs are allowed on the hike but must remain on a leash.
Q: Are campfires allowed in the Desolation Wilderness area?
A: No, campfires are not permitted anywhere in the Desolation Wilderness area.
Q: Are bear canisters required for hiking in the area?
A: Yes, bear canisters are not just recommended but are required for hiking in the area.
Q: Do I need a permit for overnight camping?
A: Yes, for overnight camping, a wilderness permit is required. Contact the Placerville Ranger Station in Camino, CA to reserve a permit.
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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