Fallen Leaf Lake: A Serene Gem of South Lake Tahoe

Getting There

• Public Transit

  From Tahoe City, start by heading to the nearest bus stop for the Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) system. Look for the TART bus that goes towards South Lake Tahoe. Ensure you check the schedule beforehand, as the bus may not run frequently. Once on the bus, enjoy the scenic ride along Highway 89. After approximately 30-40 minutes, disembark at the 'Stateline' stop near South Lake Tahoe. From there, you will need to transfer to the Route 50 bus heading towards South Lake Tahoe. Ride this bus until you reach the 'Fallen Leaf Lake' stop. Upon exiting, follow the signs that lead to the lake, which is a short walk away. Be prepared for a beautiful hike as you reach the lake, which is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

• Biking

  If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Tahoe City. Start your journey by taking the bike path along the lake’s shoreline heading south towards South Lake Tahoe. The ride is approximately 10 miles along a paved path with beautiful views of Lake Tahoe. Once you reach the South Lake Tahoe area, follow the signs towards Fallen Leaf Lake. The last stretch will take you through a mix of paved and unpaved roads, so be prepared for some off-road biking. Ensure you have a good map or GPS app to guide you through the final turns leading to the lake.

• Walking

  For those who enjoy walking, you can set out on foot from Tahoe City. Start by heading south along the lakeshore path. This scenic walk will take you along the lake for several miles, approximately 10 miles total. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry plenty of water. As you approach the South Lake Tahoe area, navigate towards Highway 50, where you can find pedestrian pathways. Continue on foot until you reach the main road leading to Fallen Leaf Lake, which will take you into the forested area. Keep an eye out for signs indicating the route to the lake.