This Is Paradise

IMPORTANT: Fire restrictions are in effect, and can include no campfires. Review the fire restrictions before going and be sure to review the info on permits required for camp stoves, which you can get online.

Granite mountain-scape, superb sunset views, crystal lakes, and shoreline campsites … the trip to Paradise Lake in Tahoe National Forest lives up to its idyllic name. Just a few hours from the Bay Area, this 15.6-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike or backpack overnighter along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) delivers pure Tahoe wilderness: big forests, amazing views, and alpine lakes.

The Paradise Lake Trail starts with a steady climb on Castle Valley North Road to the PCT, passing through meadows of wildflowers and fragrant forests. After 2 miles you’ll be at an exposed ridgetop offering views of distant alpine lakes. Descend into a meadow and hop across a creek before stumbling upon the Peter Grubb Hut, frequented by through-hikers on the PCT. The stream can be a great spot to filter water before continuing a steady climb for a few miles.

At mile 7 you’ll reach a junction with a sign reading “Paradise Lake! 0.8 mi.” Woo-hoo, you’re close! As you near the lake, keep your eyes peeled for cairns created by fellow hikers which mark the path over the sparse granite landscape to the lake. (NOTE: Be sure to bring a map for extra measure, as cairns are not guaranteed to be there or may be slightly scattered. Don't rely on them.) Take a dip in the cool waters and relax on the granite slabs to warm back up. Hit the eastern shore and pitch a tent where you like. The shoreline is dotted with multiple true backcountry locations.

Campsites along the western shore are within sight of each other, so if you’re looking for more seclusion, a quick hike to the eastern shore will get you away from the handful of others camping at the lake, and offer views of Warren Lake below. The best campsite is found on the largest island, but only those who make it to the lake first get to call it their home for the night (and it’s easily walkable with packs on).

TIP: If arriving late in the evening the day before your hike, you can try camping at Donner Memorial State Park with a reservation. The trailhead is only a 7-minute drive from the campsite.

IMPORTANT INFO BEFORE YOU GO: Tahoe National Forest requires a campfire permit for portable camp stoves, which you can get online. Please review fire restrictions. This can include no campfires. A backcountry or wilderness permit is not required for overnight camping. Be sure to download a map or take a picture of the map found at the start of the hike.

Paradise Lake Trailhead parking can be found on the north side of I-80 at Exit 176. Parking at the trailhead, follow the dirt road 1.5 miles to the junction with the PCT. If you have a high-clearance car, you can drive the first 1.5 miles and park near the PCT sign. Dog-friendly! Bring a map! There is also a map at the start of the hike that you can take a picture of.

Story and photos by Brad Hyland, @bradhylandphotography