Cathedral Lake

The hike to Cathedral Lake is a good option when time or motivation isnat there for a full climb to Mount Tallacas summit. Just shy of the half-way point along the Mount Tallac Summer Trail, the trail up to Cathedral Lake offers intermittent views of south Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake, and the Carson Range as it proceeds through the forested slopes of Tallacas lower half. Add a couple of picturesque trailside lakes to the mix, and youave got a nice little hike or trail run. From the trailhead, climb through sagebrush and a fir and pine forest as you gain the ridge between Fallen Leaf Lake and Mount Tallacas northeast aspect. Continue along the ridge to gain elevation to Floating Island Lake, 1.6 miles from the trailhead. Named for a grass island that floats freely around the lake, Floating Island Lake provides a nice shaded snack or break spot. It also marks the point of departure for cross-country routes that climb to Tallacas summit. Beyond Floating Island Lake, continue past the junction with a trail branching off to Fallen Leaf Lake. Shortly thereafter, at 2.3 miles from the trailhead, youall come upon Cathedral Lake nestled into a little bowl. This is your turn-around spot, as beyond here the trail up Mount Tallac steepens significantly. You only have to climb a few hundred feet, however, to gain fantastic views over Cathedral Lake and the Tahoe Basin. Or, if you decide youare feeling up for it and have plenty of water, continue on up the bowl toward Tallacas summit (note that Cathedral Lake is the last water source). Hikers heading to Cathedral Lake or up Mount Tallac will need to fill out a wilderness permit at the trailhead, even for day hiking on Mount Tallacas lower slopes.