Hike to Floating Island and Cathedral Lake

TMR
Jun 1, 2022
1 min read

Here's a fantastic hike that typically takes just under 3 hours. The hike along the Mount Tallac Trail offers incredible views of Fallen Leaf Lake and Lake Tahoe, with Tahoe Mountain and the Carson Range in the background.

The hike starts at the Mt. Tallac Trailhead, which is super close: only 5 miles (<20 minutes!) from Tahoe Retreat!

During holidays and busy summer weekends, the earlier you go the better chance of getting parking. The lot can be full by 10am, but you can often park down the road if you go later.

At the trailhead, you will need to fill out a wilderness permit at the trailhead, as you will be crossing into Desolation Wilderness as part of the hike.

This is typically classified as an 'intermediate' hike. You are climbing roughly 1200 feet in just over 2.5 miles, and the trail while wide and well maintained is rocky at points.

There is an open, rocky outcropping slightly off trail, between Floating Island and Cathedral Lakes that should not be missed.

This is an incredibly rewarding hike, especially given its close proximity to Tahoe Retreat, and the low time commitment.

Incredible views