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  • Writer's pictureGabriella Viola

Top Places to See Fall Colors in Lake Tahoe

Updated: Oct 25, 2021


Best places to see fall colors in Lake Tahoe

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Lake Tahoe. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is pleasantly crisp, and by mid-October, brilliant displays of fall color are peaking throughout Lake Tahoe and the Eastern Sierras.


In this post, I'll be sharing 6 of the best spots to see fall colors in Lake Tahoe and when to go!


Please enjoy Lake Tahoe responsibly by practicing the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace.

 

↠ Fallen Leaf ↞

Yellow aspen trees at Fallen Leaf Lake in Lake Tahoe California.  Fall colors in Lake Tahoe.
A meadow of yellow aspens along Fallen Leaf Lake Road
Fall colors at Fallen Leaf Lake in Lake Tahoe.
Autumn views at Fallen Leaf Lake

Fallen Leaf in Lake Tahoe has multiple hiking trails, stunning views of Mt. Tallac, and in autumn, beautiful displays of fall color. The foliage can be seen along the shoreline of the lake and along the road itself (accessed via State Route 89). Fallen Leaf Lake Road is very narrow, but there are shoulder spots alongside the road, making it easy to pull over and explore the fall colors.


Where: Fallen Leaf Lake


Best viewing time: Early to Mid October.

Photos taken October 9th & 10th 2019

 

↠ Hope Valley ↞

Yellow aspen trees in Hope Valley California in autumn.
Field of Yellow Aspens in Hope Valley

Hope Valley Cabin in the fall
One of the most popular photography spots in Hope Valley


Hope Valley is a top location for fall foliage. Located about 25 minutes south of Lake Tahoe, the spectacular autumn hues can be seen right from the highway. One of the best spots to enjoy fall colors in Hope Valley is along State Route 88 between Pickett's Junction and Blue Lakes Road.


Where: Hope Valley


Best viewing time: Mid October

Photos were taken October 11th, 2019

 

↠ Granite Lake ↞

Man fishing at Granite Lake in Lake Tahoe.  Fall colors at Granite Lake in Lake Tahoe
Fall foliage at Granite Lake in Lake Tahoe's Desolation Wilderness
Autumn at Granite Lake in Lake Tahoe's Desolation Wilderness