The Eagle Rock trail on the west shore of Lake Tahoe offers a great reward, an amazing view overlooking Lake Tahoe, after a short (but mostly uphill) hike to the top. The trail to the top is less than one mile, and is easy for kids to do. It is also a popular climbing destination.

Eagle Rock is actually a volcanic plug, so you will find yourself climbing up and standing on top of volcanic rock while taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Be careful with the kids at the top, since the volcanic rock formations are very sharp, hard to climb over in some spots, and pose a tripping hazard.

The trailhead is very easy to get too, since it is right off of highway 89. There is a small dirt parking lot at the trailhead. The best time to go to get a parking spot close to the trailhead is during non-peak times. During the off-season, you can find yourself all alone at the top during a beautiful sunset. We recently did the hike on a Monday evening in mid-November and met only one other couple coming down the trail as we were hiking up. Many people come here to hike up to watch the sunrise or sunset.

The beginning of the Eagle Rock trail offers a map of the trail and some information about the history of the trail. As you look up ahead, you can see your destination: the top of Eagle Rock!

ABOUT THE GEAR

For our Eagle Rock hiking adventure, we used the following gear.

Toddler Backpack Carrier

Osprey Poco AG Plus

We use our Osprey Poco AG Plus toddler carrier anywhere we go outdoors. We let her have fun until she is tired, and then this handy backpack takes over! Definitely recommend it to anyone with small children exploring the outdoors. This backpack keeps them safe on difficult terrain for the littles.

Outerwear

For Summer/Fall hiking in Tahoe, we hike in our Lowa hiking boots. They are really comfortable and have great traction on rocks/gravel. They provide excellent ankle support. For both men and women, these Lowa hiking boots come in many different colors to choose from.

Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Hiking Boot

Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Hiking Boot