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A short hike with a lake, optional swimming, and superb view.


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Map Key

4.0

Miles

6.4

KM

Out and Back

8,477' 2,584 m

High

6,820' 2,079 m

Low

1,657' 505 m

Up

1,656' 505 m

Down

16%

Avg Grade (9°)

53%

Max Grade (28°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Lake · Views

Family Friendly Though somewhat steep, you get a lot of rewards for your efforts.

Overview

With a combination of an alpine lake, swimming option, and the superb views from Maggie's Peak, this hike packs a lot of bang for your buck!

Description

From the Bayview trailhead, take a right (left is Cascade Falls Trail) and start up steep switchbacks. Before long - about a mile - you'll reach the wilderness boundary and then a ridge with big views of Lake Tahoe. You'll soon hit Granite Lake. The trail stays above the water, but you can trivially hop down to the lake for a swim, or this could be your destination if you're looking for a short hike. Continuing on the far side of the lake, more switchbacks take you up to a saddle.

From the saddle on the Granite Lake Trail, take a left on the Maggie's Peak Summit Spur and wander through open forest and boulders to the summit. Enjoy huge views of Mt. Tallac, the Crystal Range, and of course Granite Lake, Emerald Bay, and Lake Tahoe.

Once you've taken your time to appreciate your gorgeous surroundings, turn around, and head back down the Granite Lake Trail to return to the trailhead and your vehicle.

Contacts

Shared By:

Nick Wilder

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 11 votes

#3

in Lake Tahoe

#992

Overall
  4.5 from 11 votes
5 Star
64%
4 Star
27%
3 Star
9%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Lake Tahoe

#158

in California

#992

Overall
22 Views Last Month
17,370 Since Aug 17, 2016
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
18%
0%
82%
0%

Photos

Looking out at Cascade Lake and Lake Tahoe shortly before sunset.
Apr 9, 2018 near South L…, CA
Looking down on Cascade Lake.
Jan 25, 2016 near South L…, CA
Looking over Emerald Bay
Nov 2, 2020 near South L…, CA
Along the Granite Lake Trail.
Aug 18, 2016 near South L…, CA
Eagle Lake and surrounding peaks taken during the early morning. From Granite Lake Trail in Lake Tahoe.
Sep 10, 2017 near South L…, CA
Climbing up out of Bayview.
Aug 18, 2016 near South L…, CA

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