Echo Lake

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Hike the Echo Lake Trail

Echo Lake, California

5 mi / 688 ft gain

The Echo Lakes Trail goes through California's Desolation Wilderness and features incredible views. This trail is rated as moderate, and is best for excited beginners or intermediate hikers. This hike takes roughly 3.5-4 hours. Dogs are allowed on trail if kept on leash. The trail is best used from April - October, but is accessible via snowshoes or cross-country skis in the winter.

Lake Aloha and Ralston Peak via Pacific Crest Trail

Echo Lake, California

16.11 mi / 2694 ft gain

Lake Aloha

Echo Lake, California

4.0

12.34 mi / 1552 ft gain

You'll start the hike at the Echo Lakes trailhead, just off of Highway 50 in Lake Tahoe. The trail meanders past Lower and Upper Echo Lakes, slowly gaining altitude as you pass a smattering of summer cabins. The climb is enough to make you feel it, but before you know it, it's over. Once cresting the "pass" you'll traverse mostly flat and slightly downhill terrain into the lake basin. The tra...

Explore the Alpine Lakes of Desolation Wilderness

Echo Lake, California

5.0

This incredible hike offers you the opportunity to visit the heart of desolation without climbing more than about 600 feet of elevation. Begin at the boat taxi at Lower Echo Lake. The taxi costs $12/person each way and is $5 each-way for your furry friend. The taxi leaves the dock at frequent intervals or as soon as there are 3 people ready to go. Once you're on the taxi, it will take you acros...

Echo Lake to Emerald Bay via Pacific Crest Trail

Echo Lake, California

18.75 mi / 3107 ft gain

Echo Lake Chalet to Lake Ropi

Echo Lake, California

13.81 mi / 2139 ft gain

PCT: CA Section K - Echo Lake to Highway 80

Echo Lake, California

62.03 mi / 10394 ft gain

Lake of the Woods via Pacific Crest Trail

Echo Lake, California

11.07 mi / 1447 ft gain

Cross-Country Ski or Snowshoe to Ralston Peak

Echo Lake, California

5.0

This loop is best accomplished in 2 days, spending a night at either Ralston, Tamarack, or Cagwin Lake. Although this route is similar to hiking Ralston Peak in the summer, the trails are completely covered by snow so solid navigation skills are necessary. A map is required to find the best possible route, but note that even signposts may be covered with snow.In winter, you must park at the Ech...

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