30 |
CASCADE |
DISTANCE: 2.0 miles round-trip
HIKING TIME: 1 hour
SEASON: May–October
DIFFICULTY: easy
This easy hike has scenery to wow the most reluctant hiker. Cascade Falls, once known as White Cloud Falls, billows over its granite base, creating a cloud of spray. The 200-foot cascade spills into the southwest end of Cascade Lake. In the background, huge Lake Tahoe looms. Wildflowers flourish along the trail—blue lupine and pink mountain pride present a superb springtime show.
The waterfall is at its best in early summer. By late July, the tower of water becomes a thin stream, diminishing its dramatic effect. From the trailhead, hike to your left on Cascade Falls Trail, meandering through an open forest of Jeffrey pines. In a quarter mile, you’ll gain a winning vista of Cascade Lake, elevation 6,464 feet, which is separated from Lake Tahoe by a thin strip of land left behind by retreating glaciers.
Break out of the forest moments later to a view of the tumbling water. The trail traces along an exposed ledge with steep drop-offs. Watch your footing, and hold children firmly. The path disintegrates as you approach the falls, but rock cairns show the way. Upstream of the falls’ lip are deep aquamarine pools lined with granite. How far you explore is up to you; retrace your steps to reach the trailhead.
From South Lake Tahoe, drive northwest on Hwy. 89 for 7.5 miles to Bayview Campground and Trailhead. Turn left and drive to the end of the campground to the trailhead parking area.
