Gilmore Lake & Mt. Tallac Loop Hike

Desolation Wilderness | South Lake Tahoe, California

If you're looking for one of the most rewarding day hikes in the Lake Tahoe Basin, the Gilmore Lake & Mt. Tallac Loop belongs at the top of your list. This challenging loop combines pristine alpine lakes, granite slabs, wildflower meadows, panoramic ridgelines, and one of the most iconic summit views overlooking Lake Tahoe. Instead of taking the traditional out-and-back route to Mt. Tallac, this loop adds the peaceful beauty of Gilmore Lake while creating a more scenic and varied adventure.

Hike Stats

• Distance: 9.3 miles (loop)

• Elevation Gain: Approximately 3,170 feet

• Highest Elevation: 9,735 feet (Mt. Tallac Summit)

• Difficulty: Hard

• Time Required: 6–8 hours

• Trail Type: Loop

The Route

Starting from the Glen Alpine Trailhead near Fallen Leaf Lake, the trail climbs gradually through pine forests, granite outcroppings, and seasonal creeks before reaching the crystal-clear waters of Gilmore Lake. This peaceful alpine lake is the perfect place for a quick snack or water break before tackling the steeper climb ahead.

Beyond Gilmore Lake, the trail becomes noticeably more challenging as it ascends rocky switchbacks toward Mt. Tallac's southwest ridge. The trees begin to disappear, revealing sweeping views across Desolation Wilderness and countless alpine lakes.

The final push to the summit is steep, rocky, and exposed, but every step is rewarded with one of the most spectacular 360-degree panoramas in the Sierra Nevada. From the summit, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of:

• Lake Tahoe

• Fallen Leaf Lake

• Lake Aloha

• Desolation Wilderness

• Pyramid Peak

• The Crystal Range

After soaking in the views, descend via the shorter but steep Mid-Mt. Tallac Trail with massive views including Desolation Wilderness, Hwy 89 corridor and the mountains surrounding South Lake Tahoe, before returning to the trailhead.

Trail Difficulty

Don't let the relatively short mileage fool you.

This hike packs over 3,100 feet of elevation gain into less than 10 miles, with much of the climbing occurring above 8,000 feet. The climb from Gilmore Lake to the summit is steep and rocky, requiring solid fitness and careful footing. The descent from Mt. Tallac, although shorter, is steep and can be tough on the knees.

This is a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike.

What Makes This Hike Special

• Two completely different routes in one hike

• Beautiful Gilmore Lake with fewer crowds

• Massive granite landscapes

• Incredible wildflower displays in early summer

• One of the best summit views in all of Lake Tahoe

• Endless photo opportunities from start to finish

Pro Tips

✔ Start early (before 7:00 AM during summer) to avoid afternoon heat on exposed slopes and to secure parking.

✔ Bring at least 2–3 liters of water. Water is usually available near Gilmore Lake.

✔ Trekking poles make both the steep climb and descent much easier.

✔ The summit is exposed with very little shade. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended.

✔ Weather changes quickly above 9,000 feet. Plan to dress in layers.

Who Should Hike It?

This loop is ideal for hikers looking to experience the very best of Desolation Wilderness in a single day. If you've already conquered popular Tahoe hikes like Eagle Lake or Maggie's Peaks and are ready for something more challenging, the Gilmore Lake & Mt. Tallac Loop delivers an unforgettable alpine adventure with some of the finest scenery in the Sierra Nevada.

If you only hike Mt. Tallac once, make it the Gilmore Lake Loop. You'll trade a little extra effort for quieter trails, a stunning alpine lake, and one of the most scenic summit routes anywhere around Lake Tahoe.