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 walking down the stairs overlooking the ocean on the Coastal Trail in San Francisco

    America's Best Urban Hike

    Long ago we dubbed it the “Grand Walk” and said it was one of the most scenic and stunning trails in the West. We were wrong. This is the most scenic urban hike in America!

    View

  2. Hike or Bike the Skyline

    A new section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail is open for biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the 12-mile (out-and-back) Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail.

    View
  3. Woman riding a bike on the the Vine Trail in Napa Valley

    Through the Grapevine

    Cycle California’s most famous wine valley on the car-free Vine Trail, an ambitious project going through the heart of Napa Valley. Park your car and ride 6 miles from Napa to Yountville for lunch.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Outback to the Future

    Some must-see destinations are written in the stars. Deep in Oregon's remote southern high desert lies the largest certified International Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet. With 2.5 million acres of protected dark skies, you get the best of the celestial out here in what's known as the Oregon Outback, including geothermal soaks and an incredible playa that's a hidden gem.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Extra-Celestial Central Oregon

    Some trips promise you the moon and the stars. And this one delivers in a big way, plus throws in some extra planets for your viewing pleasure. From Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters to Antelope Basecamp in the remote high desert.

    View

  3. Hollywood Endings

    Hollywood legends may seem larger than life, but we all have to kick the bucket at some point. Still, the Hollywood Forever cemetery keeps legends’ spirits alive among 62 acres of green lawns, palm trees, landscaped gardens, and large, reflecting pools.

    View