Happy Summer! We’ve been playing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains the past two weeks both in the Lake Tahoe Basin and in the Eastern Sierra Mountains near Mammoth. It has me feeling so grateful for this beautiful state of California we call home. I’ve been thinking back to all the hikes we’ve shared through the years. In fact one of my earliest dates with my husband was a hike in the California woods more than 17 years ago.
When compiling my Summer Guide to Lake Tahoe, I found this beautiful early season hike to Eagle Lake in the archives that had never been shared here before. Looking back on these photos, my kids were so little. I remember this day so clearly. My littlest was determined to lead the way up the trail, over the creek and ultimately to the alpine waters of Eagle Lake.
Hiking as a family brings us so much joy. The time together to talk and share stories, navigate a trail, challenge our bodies and simply breathe in fresh air is a thrill each and every day out. Nothing makes us happier or hungrier than a day walking in the woods. Over the years the kids have become familiar with this feeling too. Even if we sometimes need to pry them out the door, they have learned to love the sense of accomplishment and thrill from our hikes. They are recognizing the connection between being outdoors and that feel good feeling we get with the rush of serotonin and endorphins that nature sends to our brains.
The Eagle Lake Trailhead can be reached from Emerald Bay Road. It is approximately 3 miles roundtrip and leashed dogs are permitted. This is also the access trail to exploring more of Desolation Wilderness where backpacking permits are required.
Read about more of our adventures on the trail in the SF Bay Area and Lake Tahoe as well as tips on hiking with kids and why we travel. Happy Trails.
I’m always looking for kid-friendly hikes in the Tahoe area, so thank you for this!