Bayview Trailhead — Attraction in South Lake Tahoe

This is a short trail. The steepness isn't the issue for beginners, it's the higher elevation and the many many rock steps. We watched older ones and imbalanced ones attempting to reach the beautiful destination but had to turn around. Saw ones even with poles but it didn't give them strength they needed. Fully exposed in the sun. Small children made it with no problem. So as long as you're comfortable stepping up, stepping down and maneuvering over and around a lot of granite, risers at times over 15" to step up and step or jump down. Take note that you approach the falls at the top and not at the base. Lot of people, frustrating that one's don't respectfully step aside to let faster ones pass, there is trail etiquette. Choose your timing wisely, crowds are insane. Parking a nightmare. Fee of $10 unless you choose to add more distance to your hike by walking...

This trail will take you to the beautiful Cascade Falls. The hike up to the trail is easy to moderate depending on endurance and strength in order to be able to climb up and down steep rocks. The pathway has a lot of sand which makes the hike a bit slippery without proper shoes. The trail is on the side of the mountain which allows a perfect view of Emerald Bay as you make your way up and down the falls. We spent some time just viewing the gorgeous lake and the falls. Overall it is a beautiful place to hike. Make sure to get there early as parking is limited. There is a fee of $10, and will allow access to Bay View Trail, Desolation Trail and...

Unparalleled views. Glad I went. Even happier that I didn't give myself a heart attack. Seriously, this trail is no joke! Grades are steep and consistent ALL the way up. Desolation Trail, you'd think the name would have given me a clue!! Anyway, I am 55 years old and sedintary. There was a woman up there looking for her dog. She had already gone up and down the trail, and then JOGGED back up calling for her dog. Wow, she was a beast!!!! So it's all relative to your fitness level. Take water, for sure. I wish I had sprayed bug repellent on my arms beforehand. Otherwise, no regrets. We went late in the day, no trouble parking or...