Picnic with a View

Hike to Picnic Rock in Lake Tahoe

09.27.2018
Greater California
Dog Friendly, Hikes

When early autumn arrives in the mountains, you never really know what you’ll get … hot days, rainy afternoons, snow. Good thing the path to Picnic Rock on the Tahoe Rim Trail is as all-purpose as they come—and offers one of the grandest views of Lake Tahoe.

Lace the hiking shoes or strap on the snowshoes for the 1-mile (one-way) jaunt to Picnic Rock. Starting at the Brockway Summit trailhead, this short, mostly forested section of the epic Tahoe Rim Trail is a gradual ascent.

Signage on the way indicates “Viewpoint.” There are no major views en route but the vantage from Picnic Rock makes up for it. The large outcropping of layered rocks overlooks glistening Lake Tahoe, cradled by the Sierras. Stand atop a section, take a seat, and enjoy a picnic (or at least a snack).

Weekend Sherpa
Tahoe Trifecta Adventures Around Reno Tahoe

This hike is very popular on weekends during the thick of the day. Pro Tip: Go late day on a Friday or on the weekend and you’re likely to see just a handful of people, and the colors from the low-hanging sun cast a golden halo over the setting. Shoulder season also helps with crowd control. You can extend the trek, staying on the Rim Trail (bring a map), or return the way you came.

TIP: This makes a great spot for your annual family holiday card.

There's parking on the side of Hwy. 267 at Brockway Summit (map). Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View

  2. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts head to a nearby spot, Trojan Point, for a little more personal space in their panoramic viewings.

    View
  3. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View