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Backpacking Routes
12 routes found
Desolation Valley Alpine Lakes Tour
Three-day highlight reel of Desolation Wilderness linking Aloha Lake, Lake of the Woods, Heather Lake, and Fallen Leaf Lake. The ultimate Tahoe backpacking experience.
Bear Lake to Wentworth Springs
Two-day moderate route connecting Bear Lake to historic Wentworth Springs cabin site through forested Crystal Basin terrain. Great for intermediate backpackers building distance.
Tamarack Lakes Backpack
Beginner-friendly overnight trip to the beautiful Tamarack Lakes basin in El Dorado National Forest. Perfect first backpack for scouts with straightforward trail and gorgeous alpine setting.
North Fork American River Canyon Loop
Spectacular three-day loop exploring the deepest canyons of the American River drainage. Remote, rugged, and rewarding with old-growth forest and dramatic river crossings.
Rubicon-Rockbound Wilderness Loop
Challenging four-day loop linking the Desolation Wilderness and the Rockbound Valley via the famous Rubicon River canyon. A demanding but extraordinarily beautiful route.
Meiss Country Overnight
Mellow introduction to backpacking in the scenic Meiss Country roadless area south of Lake Tahoe. Rolling meadows, a historic cabin, and stunning views toward the lake.
Mount Rose Wilderness Circuit
Two-day loop from Mount Rose Summit through the Mount Rose Wilderness with sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, Reno, and the Great Basin. Best wildflower display in early summer.
Crystal Basin High Route
Remote three-day traverse through the Crystal Basin linking Wrights Lake, Twin Lakes, and Loon Lake. Spectacular granite and lake scenery with excellent fishing.
American River Gorge Backpack
Two-day adventure descending into the steep American River canyon through gold rush country. Camp riverside amid dramatic canyon walls and enjoy swimming holes.
Tahoe Rim Trail - Tahoe City to Echo Summit
Five-day segment of the Tahoe Rim Trail on the western shore offering constant lake views, meadow crossings, and high ridge walking. Accessible via multiple trailheads for shorter versions.
Granite Chief Wilderness Traverse
Remote multi-day route through the rarely-visited Granite Chief Wilderness north of Lake Tahoe. Rugged terrain with outstanding views and near-complete solitude.
Desolation Wilderness Loop
Classic multi-day loop through Desolation Wilderness visiting pristine alpine lakes, granite peaks, and dramatic High Sierra scenery. One of the most iconic backpacking routes in the Lake Tahoe region.