Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit any time of year because it offers so many unique activities. While spring and fall are the shoulder seasons and are often overlooked, they are some of the most beautiful times to visit. Did you know that there are some really incredible waterfalls in Lake Tahoe? As winter melts away, Lake Tahoe comes alive with wildflowers and waterfalls. And then as summer slows into autumn, Lake Tahoe puts on a beautiful display of fall colors.
So I’ve put together a guide to the Waterfalls in Lake Tahoe. Depending on the previous winter, spring or early summer are the best times to see the waterfalls. Some of these waterfalls are right off the road and some require some hiking to get to.
Waterfalls in Lake Tahoe
Eagle Falls
Emerald Bay is one of the most photographed locations in Lake Tahoe, so Eagle Falls in Emerald Bay is probably one of the busiest waterfalls in Lake Tahoe. You can see the top of the waterfalls from the road. But if you hike down into Emerald Bay, you can see Lower Eagle Falls from the bottom and also check out Vikingsholm. This is a great place to picnic or hang out at the beach. You can even kayak over to Fannette Island! If you head up towards Eagle Lake you can see Upper Eagle Falls. You will reach the falls within a quarter mile, but definitely continue on to Eagle Lake if you have the time. You will need a free day permit to hike into Desolation Wilderness which can be picked up at the Placerville Ranger Station year round or at most trailheads during the summer.
Note: Dogs are not allowed on the trail to Lower Eagle Falls!
Fontanillis Lake Falls
Continuing past Eagle Lake will take you on a great hike to Fontanillis Lake Falls. This hike is definitely be more of an adventure at 10 miles round trip. You will need a free day permit to hike into Desolation Wilderness which can be picked up at the Placerville Ranger Station year round or at most trailheads during the summer.
Bridal Veil Falls
About an hour before you arrive in South Lake Tahoe on Highway 50 is Bridal Veil Falls. These waterfalls are located right on the side of the road and are best visited on your way into Lake Tahoe. There is a decent sized turnout for you to stop and take some pictures.
Cascade Falls
Also located in Emerald Bay, Cascade Falls is a very popular family friendly hike. The trailhead is at the back of the Bayview Campground but does not go into Desolation Wilderness so no permit is required. The hike is just shy of 1.5 miles round trip and only gains about 200 ft of elevation. This is a great family friendly hike!
Shirley Canyon
Hiking to Shirley Lake is a perfect way to spend a day outside in Lake Tahoe. The trailhead is located near Olympic Valley. The trail will treat you to beautiful views the entire way as you pass by several waterfalls and lots of wildflowers. The trail can be hard to follow so definitely worth tracking your hike on the AllTrails App.
Pack a lunch and bring the dogs (welcome on the trail leashed) to spend some time relaxing at Shirley Lake. You can continue on to High Camp where you can grab something at the High Camp Marketplace or even take the tram back down.
Note: Do not park at the trailhead area as it is a fire lane! Park in the main parking lot nearby.
Glen Alpine Falls
Probably one of the most accessible waterfalls in Lake Tahoe is Glen Alpine Falls. It’s off the beaten path, tucked away at the the south end of Fallen Leaf Lake, but it’s steps away from the road.
Directions: Head north towards Emerald Bay on Highway 89 – about 3 miles up take a left on Fallen Leaf Road. About 4.5-5 miles down the road you’ll come across the marina, keep driving past the marina and then the fire station towards Lily Lake. The falls will be on your right.
Horsetail Falls
The largest waterfall in Lake Tahoe is Horsetail Falls located right off Highway 50. It’s about 20 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe just past the town of Strawberry. The trail can be hard to find or follow so there are several different options for you to take. You can take a shorter route along the Pyramid Creek Loop Trail which is an easier hike. Or you can hike all the way to the base of the waterfalls staying close to the water to help guide your way. You can also choose to hike/boulder/climb to the top of Horsetail Falls and to Avalanche Lake. Please hike with caution as it can be slippery!
Note: Bring cash for $5 parking!
