Cascade Falls Trail

Route Description for Cascade Falls Trail

The Cascade Falls Trail is an incredible adventure that travels through picturesque sceneries. Exposing some of the best views of Lake Tahoe, this short but sweet route is well-revered. With a limited parking lot and single-track trail, we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds! Manageable for novice hikers and children alike, sections of the path travel along the ridges Maggies Peaks, warranting steep drop-offs on one side of the trail. Mind your footing, keep an eye on children, and keep your pups on a short leash. Additionally, the outcrops that line the cascades can be extremely slippery, so exercise caution when exploring the banks.

The Cascade Falls Hike is a must-add to your South Lake Tahoe adventure itinerary. Wander through mixed pine forests, along the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and to the charming cascades. Though accessible year-round, we suggest heading out in the spring or early summer when the cascades surge from the alpine snowmelt! Additionally, summer treks warrant breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, busy with adventurers, sights of the lush vegetation, and clear views of the dramatic mountain range. So get out outside and let the fresh mountain air fill your lungs as you wander this easy-going route. We love this adventure if you can’t tell, and we know you will too.

Embark on your trek along the Cascade Falls Trail from the trailhead in Bayside Campground. Setting out from the trailhead, head south through the thin forestlands to a granite outcrop that boasts a scenic overlook of Cascade Lake and distant views of Lake Tahoe and the snow-dusted Sierra Nevada Mountains. If it’s a clear day, the Cascade Lake mirrors the lush pine that encircles the crystalline waters. Admire the views, then track south along the path, which will gradually descend along the ridge of Maggies Peaks.

Eventually, you will have to navigate a steep ascent to Cascade Falls. Marvel in the charm of the babbling cascades that flow from Cascade Creek into Cascade Lake. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters and sit atop one of the giant outcrops that line the waterfall. Not only will you be granted wonderful vistas of the cascades, but you will be overwhelmed by postcard-worthy panoramas of the two shimmering, alpine lakes. Admire the one-of-a-kind scenery, and when you are through ogling the view, retrace your footing along the route back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Cascade Falls

Cascades Falls is a 61 m waterfall in South Lake Tahoe fed by the snowmelt of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Surging in the spring and drying in the late summer and autumn, the waterfalls warrant epic panoramas of Cascade Lake and Lake Tahoe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs permitted on the Cascade Falls Trail?

Dogs are allowed on the Cascade Falls Trail as long as they remain on leash.

Where do you park when hiking the Cascade Falls Trail?

Parking for the Cascade Falls Trail is located past the Bayview Campground off Emerald Bay Road/Highway 89.

How long is the Cascade Falls Trail?

The Cascade Falls Trail is a 2.3 km out-and-back hike suitable for families and novice hikers.