TRT: Tahoe City to Brockway Summit

The TRT: Tahoe City to Brockway Summit segment is yet another example of how the landscape is incredibly variable over the course of the lake shore. Different than the towering, glacially-scoured peaks and icy lakes of the Desolation Wilderness to the south, this segment is characterized by dense coniferous forests and spectacular, wildflower-rich meadows blanketing a substrate born from the violent lava flows and spurting volcanic vents of a bygone era. Starting at the TRT: Tahoe City to Brockway Summit Trailhead Parking Area, follow the trail as it ascends rather steep gradients atop an ancient lava flow. Further up the climb, pass a time worn cinder cone, produced from the violent ejection of lava globules from an active volcanic vent, on your way to the flanks of Painted Rock. From Painted Rock, the trail traverses a drainage before contouring the southern aspect of Mount Watson. From this point, be sure to look back over your shoulder and absorb the spectacular Lake Tahoe landscape before you. While much of the time dense forests may obscure your view of the lake, every so often a perfect window will appear through the trees, so take advantage of it! From the flanks of Mount Watson, a welcome descent leads to the serene waters of Watson Lake. From Watson Lake, enjoy a lengthy descent as the trail meanders across the hillside through more coniferous forests for about 4 miles before initiating one final climb and descent to the Brockway Summit TRT Trailhead Parking Area and the trail's end.