Shirley Canyon Trailhead — Attraction in Tahoe City

Shirley Canyon Trail, Jul 18, 2022 This is a challenging trail, not in terms of the length but the amount of agility involved. Lots of rigorous bouldering and scrambling to do, for about 30 minutes to one hour of the hike up. I took my time to rest in between difficult stretches. The sights were breath-taking, right from the first 0.2 mile onwards. They were ever-changing, from waterfalls and greenery to stunning rock formations and the scenic Lake Shirley. There were lots of mosquitoes during the first half of the hike. As far as I know, most of the people who hiked all the way up took the tram down at ‘high camp.’ So, I would definitely check to make sure the tram is operating by the time I would have reached the top before making my way up. I think the last tram runs at 5 pm but it’s seasonal and it may not run at all. I took the tram down. I can’t imagine navigating those slopes and rocky terrain down. During this time in July, it was warm and sunny. However, there was still ice/snow on one stretch of the trail about 0.5 mile before the top. What’s more, that stretch was perched on a slope. It was precariously slippery. I don’t know how I made it across but I did. At high camp, where the tram operates, there were restrooms, food, and a small Olympic Museum. It’s very different from the scenery we had seen along the way but a relief that we’ve made it. It took me about 3.5 hours to reach the top but I’m slower than most hikers, who would have made it in half the time. We also made some wrong turns where the trail markings were missing at forks. Luckily, there were people who had hiked the trail before who helped us get back on track. We saw at least 25 people during the hike on a Monday. I knew soon after I got past the two waterfalls and reached the rock wall whether this was a suitable hike for me. Once I got past the rock wall, it seemed easier to just finish it. After Lake Shirley, there was very little bouldering and mostly just steep walking. I would recommend wearing good hiking shoes, bringing sufficient water and snacks, and wearing clothing that protects from sun burn and mosquitoes. Though it was a challenging hike, the sights of exotic wild flowers, stunning rock formations, and the lovely Lake Shirley made...

I LOVED this trail. There absolutely were some challenging spots but there was plenty of time spent walking through pines and wildflowers! It took us 2hrs and 45min. I stopped to take a lot of pictures. My son could have done in 2hrs or less. He was patient with my pace. We had to cross snow near the top. There was a lake where humans and dogs could cool off. Plenty of waterfalls to splash in. When we reached the top I was surprised to find restaurants, bathrooms a play ground and a huge observation deck. I was also surprised that a 12oz CAN of soda was $5.41!!! I had water in my pack so I was fine!!! The Tram ride down was free ($44 to ride up from the village). Beautiful views on the ride. We parked at the ski lodge and walked to the trail head. Trail was well marked. We did see other hikers but not as many as I expected. I’m so glad we...

The waterfalls, views, and lake are spectacular! This hike is challenging and has a significant deal of bouldering, some near vertical. Come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Great hike! Multiple waterfalls. If you go all the way to the summit you can ride the tram back down for free. This trail has quite a few dogs and dog owners seem to leave their poop bags all along the trail. Be a responsible dog owner and pack it out. Do not park at the trailhead. There are numerous No Parking Fire Road signs. Olympic Valley Fire Dept was busy ticketing the many cars parked along the road at the trailhead! Park at Palisades and walk back, it’s...