Ralston Trailhead — Attraction in South Lake Tahoe

Most direct access to Desolation from 50, but I wouldn't want to tackle the climb with an overnight pack given another option. The typical climb up Ralston will give your legs a strong workout going both directions and rewards the effort with great, if not spectacular, views of Tahoe, Upper and Lower Echo, Talac, southern Desolation, and when clear the Coast Range.

Beware the parking area entrance, the transition from pavement to dirt has a bit of a drop that too low of a car can bottom out. If you're lucky you may be able to grab one of the limited spots up by the true trailhead and save a couple hundred feet of walking up the dirt road. As others have mentioned there are no facilities (water, trash, toilets), so...

Its an above moderate trail. The incline is steep as you get closer to the top. Wear ankle supported hiking boots as the rocks at the top are unstable. I didn't get altitude sickness but I definitely felt the elevation gain. I recommend you take breaks as it can be beneficial. The map says 4.1 miles, its under that per Alltrails app. View is absolutely underrated. 360 degrees of the Sierra Nevadas,Pyramid creek peak, Lake Aloha, Tahoe and the smaller lakes....

Great day hike with incredible views of the Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe and surrounding peaks. Expect a couple hours on the trail as you hike up several thousand vertical feet. The trail starts out moderate and picks up as you advance until you hit the steep ridge and top out with a 360 view. Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks and the essentials for a...