The Top 20 Lakes in Tahoe National Forest
Looking to visit the best lakes in Tahoe National Forest? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Tahoe National Forest’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: November 13, 2025
Flora Lake
Highlight • Lake
This is a well-travelled route that can be accessed from either end, Donner Pass Summit in the South or at the Donner Summit rest stop in the North. Two of …
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Five Lakes
Highlight • Lake
Hiking the Five Lakes Trail in the Granite Chief Wilderness is certainly one of the most popular things to do in the area. Even though the trail is not long, …
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Middle Loch Leven Lake
Highlight • Lake
When you leave the trailhead near the busy and loud interstate and you hike across the railway you don't think only 3 miles in you'll find such a peaceful lake. …
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Donner Lake Vista
Highlight • Viewpoint
Between the two segments of the abandoned Donner tunnel, the view opens across the valley and down to Donner Lake.
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Gold Lake Vista
Highlight • Viewpoint
On top of the ridge line you may find snow well into the summer, but you'll also find near 360 degree views. Mount Washington and Elwell to the north, Sierra …
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China Cove on Donner Lake
Highlight • Beach
China Cove is a sandy cove on Donner Lake. This is a quieter and more relaxed one on the southern part of the lake. There is limited parking in the area.
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South Tamarack Lake
Highlight • Lake
Both the North and South Tamarack Lakes are beautiful and pristine lakes with the Pacific Crest Trail weaving right through them. The biggest difference between the two lakes is that …
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Glacier Lake
Highlight • Lake
Glacier Lake is small in size but grand in beauty. Earlier in the season (June) the trail towards Glacier Lake is in great shape but the lake itself might still …
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Sugar Pine Dam and Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Sugar Pine Reservoir Dam is part of the Joshua M. Hardt Memorial Trail — a beautiful family-friendly trail circling the Sugar Pine Reservoir. Parts of the trail are paved, and …
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Salmon Lake Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Salmon Lake Trail starts on a dirt road that is not extremely rough and should be doable with a 2WD. Of course, conditions can change so do some research before …
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Donner Lake
Highlight • Lake
Donner Lake, situated at an elevation of 5,936 feet and with a depth of 328 feet, is fed by Summit Creek and Gregory Creek and drained by Donner Creek. The …
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Still not found your perfect lake in Tahoe National Forest? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
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