Eagle Falls — Attraction in South Lake Tahoe

Eagle Falls is a popular and picturesque waterfall located in the South Lake Tahoe area of California. Nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountains, this natural attraction is part of the larger Emerald Bay State Park, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Key Features and Attractions:

Location and Access: Eagle Falls is situated near the western shore of Lake Tahoe, within the boundaries of Emerald Bay State Park. The falls can be accessed via a short hike from the Eagle Falls Trailhead, which is located just off Highway 89.

Upper and Lower Falls: Eagle Falls consists of both upper and lower falls, each offering unique scenic views. Upper Eagle Falls: A smaller, more intimate cascade that can be reached via a moderate hike from the trailhead. It flows from Eagle Lake and tumbles down a series of rocky steps. Lower Eagle Falls: A more dramatic waterfall that plunges into a rocky gorge, easily accessible from the nearby parking area and viewpoint.

Hiking Trails: The Eagle Falls Trail is a popular hiking route that leads to both the upper and lower falls. The trail continues on to Eagle Lake, providing hikers with further exploration opportunities. The trail is well-marked and suitable for hikers of varying skill levels, though some sections can be steep and rocky.

Scenic Views: Visitors to Eagle Falls are rewarded with stunning views of cascading water against a backdrop of granite cliffs, lush forests, and the sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe. The falls are particularly impressive during the spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the water flow.

Flora and Fauna: The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, featuring towering pine and fir trees, wildflowers, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. The region's natural beauty makes it a popular spot for nature...

Sunday, 8/13/2023 - We headed up to the mountain to hike at Eagle Falls. Address is 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. There is parking by the street and there a parking lot with bathrooms here. Upon arrival...

Pros

1. parking is limited. So if you go on the weekend, good luck on finding parking. It was packed when we arrived.
2. there are bathrooms here. Eagle Falls has its own parking lot besides the legal street parking.
3. hike isn't too far to see the falls. We got close to it. We didn't go all the way. Kiddos were tired and hot after a quarter mile hike. It was hot this day. Will have to try this hike again and go a little further when it's a little cooler. But it's beautiful!!!
4. it's an easy hike. But it is very rocky and lots of stairs. Not wheelchair friendly.
5. if you've any lower body pains, this may not be the hike for you.
6. when you go about a quarter mile hike in, there is a bench under a tree to rest up.
7. there's lots of nice people hiking.

Cons

1. none

Conclusion I liked this hike. Wasn't too bad. Easy for the kids. Short hike to see the waterfall from a distance. This hike may be harder for those with lower body pains or those in wheelchair, as it's very rocky and lots of stairs. But it's...

This is not a regular waterfall. It is an experience including an exhausting yet beautiful hike, a magnificent view of the Eagle lake when you reach the top and witness the origin of small tributaries that make up the Eagle Falls. Water from the streams is cold and fresh. Do fill up your water bottles. Parking inside is limited at $5 and gets filled pretty fast. By afternoon, people start parking for free on the road side but its risky and difficult to park there. Better reach as early as possible or park at the nearby Emerald Bay State Park lot. I would rate the hike to this place as difficult but doable for fit adults and kids over 6 years. Path is not straight, it includes walking through rocks and boulders, stepping on tall stones, etc. Some hikers were carrying few months old babies and I can't imagine how tiring it must have been. But the experience is totally worth it ! Will take around an hour to climb up and 45 mins to climb down. View along the way is...