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  • Writer's pictureGabriella Viola

3 Beginner-Friendly Snowshoe Hikes in Lake Tahoe with Fantastic Scenery

Updated: Feb 25


snowshoe hikes in lake tahoe

Snowshoeing is an enjoyable way to take in Lake Tahoe's winter scenery. It's a terrific workout and a low-impact alternative to skiing or snowboarding. In this post, I'm sharing three picturesque snowshoe hikes in Lake Tahoe that are all beginner friendly.


*When visiting Lake Tahoe, help keep it beautiful by LEAVING NO TRACE.


CHECK OUT THE VIDEO VERSION HERE:


 

1. Chickadee Ridge

snowshoeing at chickadee ridge in lake tahoe

snowshoeing at chickadee ridge in lake tahoe

One of my go-to snowshoe hikes in Lake Tahoe is Chickadee Ridge. The serene snowshoe trek starts at Tahoe Meadows, just north of Incline Village. It doesn't take very long to reach the ridge, which has stunning views of Lake Tahoe. Chickadee Ridge is also a well-known location to spot Lake Tahoe's friendly chickadee birds.


TRAIL STATS:

  • Distance: 2.4 miles out and back

  • Location: Mt Rose Wilderness, Incline Village

  • Trailhead: Tahoe Meadows off HWY 431

  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

View on Alltrails

 

2. China Cove Trail Loop

Snowshoeing Donner Memorial State park

Snowshoeing Donner Memorial State park

The China Cove Trail is an easily accessible 3-mile trail that loops around Donner Memorial State Park. This snowshoe hike is perfect for beginners and is incredibly scenic, especially when the towering pine trees that frame the trail are blanketed in snow. Along the hike are numerous mini trails that veer off the main loop and lead to Donner Lake.


TRAIL STATS:

  • Distance: 3.2-mile loop

  • Location: Truckee, California

  • Trailhead: Donner Memorial State Park

  • Difficulty: Easy

View on Alltrails

 

3. Johnston Canyon Overlook

snowshoeing at johnston canyon in  tahoe donner

snowshoeing at johnston canyon in  tahoe donner

Located in Tahoe Donner, Johnson Canyon Overlook is an easy snowshoe hike with a big payoff. From the trailhead, it only takes about 1 mile to reach the ridge, which offers gorgeous panoramic views of Johnson Canyon and the surrounding area. You can end the hike at the first ridge or continue along the trail for a little more of a challenge.


The trail starts at the Glacier Way Trailhead off Skislope Way in Tahoe Donner. Keep in mind; the parking lot at Glacier Way is small and fills up quickly.


TRAIL STATS:

  • Distance: 2.0-mile out and back

  • Location: Tahoe Donner

  • Trailhead: Glacier Way Trailhead

  • Difficulty: Easy

View on Alltrails

 

I hope you enjoyed my Lake Tahoe Snowshoeing Guide! Before you go, be sure to subscribe to the blog so that you don’t miss the latest blog posts, videos, and other good stuff. You can also check out more adventures on Instagram and Youtube!



 

You Might Also Enjoy:


Ultimate Lake Tahoe Winter Guide: 12 Exhilarating Winter Activities in Lake Tahoe


13 Spectacular Hikes in Lake Tahoe


15 things to do in South Lake Tahoe: The Ultimate Outdoor Guide!


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About Gabriella Viola

ABOUT

Gabriella Viola is a photographer and outdoor enthusiast currently living in Lake Tahoe, California.