This was one of our most memorable camping trips with our kids when they were younger. We last minute joined a few of our friends from work and their families. Another family sold us their spot for this week. If you've ever been here to Fallen leaf you know the breath taking views this lake and it's grounds has to offer. Our campsite was the largest and no one was behind us. Our kids played in a creek nearby. We hiked and ventured to a few waterfalls in Angora while here. It was so sad to see where the fires burned through this area. None of our photos taken here do the grounds any justice. Everything was pristine. I look forward to returning some day. I'm due for some grounding and getting lost in nature. read more

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Gorgeous hike from the main road, easy for kids and a great scenic view of the lake. If the campground is open it's an even shorter hike. We enjoyed looking for mushrooms and wildlife! read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Bridge over the inlet. - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

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Went here with my baby (at the time) and it's shady. Now she's 7 and we need to revisit, nice place

One of my most beloved lakes... the water is so beautiful and views are incredible. I love to hike up the waterfall and enjoy the beauty of Fallen Leaf. The ride is a little tight getting in, but so worth the drive. read more

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Fallen leaf lake and trail were wonderful. It's an easy trail around the lake, though we only did part of it. So many beautiful trees, plants, birds etc to enjoy along the walk. We started at the Taylor creek bridge on the main road and walked up to the campground then onto the fallen leaf trail. You can park at the trailhead by the campground as well. read more

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Fallen Leaf Lake is one of the most amazing spots in California. It is the lesser known next door neighbor to Lake Tahoe. The lake is only accessible during non-snow season. Fallen leaf Lake is a beautiful lake, but much of it is private property. To get to the best part you must drive down to the Western end near Glen Alpine falls. It's a long narrow one lane road, and you'll meet plenty of head on traffic. But folks are reasonably polite. I visited the area in late May 2025. Air temperature was around 68° but the water temperature was freezing cold. That did not stop kayakers. This would be an amazing kayaking spot in the dead of summer. read more

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There are so many beautiful hikes in Tahoe. This is one of my favorites. Mainly because it's dog friendly, those places can be hard to find. Dogs on leash onl We parked at the entrance gate to Fallen Leaf campground. The campground is closed for the season so we parked along the road and hiked in with our dog. There are a lot of different trails that lead up to the lake. The one we chose took us on a five plus miles round trip. The trails are dirt paved and I wouldn't say it's stroller or wheelchair friendly. Once you get to the lake it is breathtaking! It was so peaceful, you can literally hear a pin drop. Mind you, we came out early in the morning, since we're early risers. If you're in Tahoe and looking for an easy hike, come here! You won't be disappointed. read more

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Fallen Leaf Lake offers all the best activities of summer and fall. You can bring your dog, camp, hike, swim and fish this alpine lake. It is a textbook definition of unspoiled natural beauty and is a great place for a day trip or a weekend escape. There is little commercial development at the lake other than the Fallen Leaf Marina and Store at the southern extremity of the lake. Fallen Leaf Lake is peaceful and more than a worthwhile destination. The water clarity gives you nearly a 50 foot depth of visibility. When it comes to photo opp's, there are no disappointments here !! read more

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Love love love!! Not many people which is amazing. But make sure to wear sandals when going in the water since it's not sand-based like Lake Tahoe, but rock-based so it'll definitely hurt and be difficult on your feet. We stayed at the Fallen Leaf Campground for a few days and the walk to this lake was super close! read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

This is an absolutely beautiful lake to do a great hike around. The trail around the lake is pretty flat and easy to walk. We wanted to drive to the lookout over the lake, but got stuck at a road closure area with a gate. We realized we drove down the wrong path, but we took the opportunity to do a hike to the waterfall. It took about 2 miles to get to the waterfall from where we parked. The view along the way was amazing, with the blue sky reflecting beautifully into the water. The waterfall was pretty big and we could hear it from a good distance away. Most activities and roads were closed for the season but this place seems like a great place to explore in the summer as well. read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

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One of the most beautiful spots tucked away near Lake Tahoe. So peaceful and secluded, it is a nice break from our busier, more populated lake. The drive into the lake seems a bit lengthy, slow, with many turnouts. It is narrow, but perfect for those on a leisurely drive, and the wait is well worth it. At the end of the ride is the small Fallen Leaf Market at the marina. You can buy hamburgers, chicken nuggets, various boar head lunch meats, and beverages. Fun to get snacks, sit and peer out at the lake. You can rent boats, kayaks, or swim to a little dock and sunbathe. There are campsites. The lake is clear and blue like it's bigger sister, Lake Tahoe. It is surrounded by the steep mountain peaks. Well worth the drive... read more

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Such a beautiful place ! We loved it . The views are incredible & super peaceful. It's an easy walk and so much to take in read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

Did you know that there are several smaller lakes around Lake Tahoe? Well there are. One of them is Fallen Leaf Lake. Getting to the lake is a whole adventure in itself. The lake is on Fallen Leaf Road off Route 89. The road is narrow mainly enough for one vehicle with not alot of cutouts. Most maps and apps will mention hiking from the Fallen Leaf campground. This is the easiest flattest hiking trail. At the .4 mile mark you should see a road shooting from the right swith signs to the Fallen Leaf campground. It will lead to a paved parking lot with day fee use. Good luck to you in finding a spot though. The lot fills up quickly, If you opt to keep driving. You pass a private owned meadow and several private homes that overlook the lake. The road gets gnarlier... gets narrower with curves, potholes, and blind turns. Watch out for residents walking and oncoming vehicle traffic going way faster than the posted speed limits. Be forewarned that this road is congested and can get backed up especially on the weekend. The road will get you to to the lake about 5 miles further. At the lake there is a small paved parking lot, a tiny general store, and a marina boat launch that also rents out kayaks and pontoon boat. The store sells groceries and is a deli serving breakfast and lunch with summer hours 8am - 6 pm. To launch a motorized boat, you will need to have it inspected prior. There are launch fees. read more

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I'll start by saying that the lake itself deserves 5 Stars+++++ ... it's one of the most magnificent creations of Mother Nature I've ever seen... absolutely stunning!! My one star vote comes from the fact that a good majority of the lake front is privately owned and so few people can actually enjoy the totality of this profound spectacle of natural beauty. I'm not a big fan of the ultra-rich claiming ownership over something that I feel everyone should be able to enjoy equally. I'd also guess that at least half the homes probably sit vacant for the majority of the year as vacation homes.... which again is such a shame that the majority of the lake front cannot be enjoyed by those that make the trip to visit. Truly disappointing. Here's a big 1 Star for the selfishness of the opulent. read more

Peaceful, quiet and serene - this small lake, not too far away from Lake Tahoe, is a perfect place to relax and chill away from the traffic and the crowds. read more

A good hike for getting accustomed to the 6600 feet elevation, with pristine views of the 5 square mile lake and surrounding mountains. Hike this trail one week earlier and the mountains would be covered with the smoke of forest fires from afar. We drive on highway 89 North , going past Camp Richardson, making a left turn onto Fallen Leaf Rd, the opposite side of the Tallac Historic Site. We go 0.4 miles along a 15mph speed limit one lane paved road, encountering various pickup trucks, campers, and full size SUVs. Bigger vehicles, all with wheels over the center of the road when they see me driving only a compact Honda Civic. I pull over, at a stand still, with my side wheels just over the road edge, at the many dirt areas. Not a problem in the dry summer, but spring time with swampy side areas may be another situation. At the 0.4 mile mark, come to a three way intersection. Fallen Leaf road to the left goes to the $8 fee parking lot on the south eastern side of the lake, 5 miles of one lane, mountainous road, with twists and turns. Road on the immediate right goes to the Fallen Leaf campgrounds kiosk, where campers check in. We take the road to the far right, which goes through the Fallen Leaf Campground for 0.6 miles, along a one lane paved road with plenty of turnouts when encountering traffic going in the opposite direction. We pass the trailhead on the left, with park bathrooms on the opposite side of the road, and go another 150 yards to the daytime public parking area. Paved lot with painted lines for 22 parking spots., with only a handful taken at 9am on a Tuesday morning We walk back to the trailhead on the side of the road, level dirt trail through brush, and quickly through the pine forests. Short time where we come over a rise, and there is Fallen Leaf Lake, dark blue in color, with green forests covering the surrounding mountains. Overcast skies with the pall of forest fires long away. Logs connecting by chains floating on the surface, to act as a breakwater, and to warn boaters of shallow waters. Areas of shallow beaches, with the occasional picnic table. Serene conditions broken by the roar of motor boats towing water skiiers. We hike on the trail which goes near and away from the lake. Encounter the Fallen Leaf Lake Dam, with a pedestrian bridge over the lake, and water running off from the lake into the down streams. The Cathedral Road runs parallel to the trail in places. Encounter a boat launch area, and then an area of abandoned shacks, and the remnants of a summer house, with only the chimney and stone foundation remaining. 1.7 miles from the trailhead, the trail comes to an abrupt end. We head on back, keeping our eyes open, not for mountain lions or black bears, but for poop of dogs of irresponsible owners. Even saw some horse poop, even though horses banned from the trail. On the way back, we run into people with floatation toys, in their swim gear on their way to the lake. Two hours later back at the now filled parking lot. We follow a full size pickup truck out of the campgrounds. Only it turns right and not left at Fallen Leaf Road, going up a narrow twisting single lane mountain road for miles, before reaching the backroad back to South Lake Tahoe. Didn't realize this until it was too late. Driving while Asian! read more

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Getting to this lake is a bit tricky but highly recommended. Essentially, you'd be driving on highway 89 North , going past Camp Richardson, making a left turn onto Fallen Leaf Rd, the opposite side of the Tallac Historic Site. You'd then be driving for ~.5 miles at 15mph on a paved road (slightly uncomfortable if you're driving a Sedan vs an SUV). This drive could definitely be more difficult during the winters and rains but should be doable in the summer. Once you get there, you'll hit upon a parking lot with ample size for ~10 cars. You could then walk down the beach and sink in the magnificent view. The vibe and view at this very point makes the entire journey well worth it :-) . read more

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We arrived in the South Lake Tahoe area in the afternoon last Thursday. It was still bright outside and sunny, although dusk was approaching fast. I suggested that my parents and husband go out to the nearest lake for a quick stroll/hike to see some nature. So...we decided on Fallen Leaf Lake, since it seemed a reasonable distance from our cabin. On our way there, as we were driving along Fallen Leaf Road (?), we randomly spotted a HUGE BLACK (or BROWN) BEAR by the side of the road. Good thing we were all safe in our car! We were super stoked to see wildlife (unexpectedly too) on our way to the lake, and started to take a bunch of pictures and videos of the bear as we drove slowly closer and closer to it. What was so amazing for all of us - was how close this bear was to our car (to us!) and how it wasn't scared at all of us. He was peacefully chewing on some grass/weeds...and didn't even care that we were there. He/She didn't have a care in the world! As we finally drove past the bear, we were still squabbling about how awesome it was to see wildlife unexpectedly that late afternoon. I guess dusk is the best time to see some bear activity in the area! :) We finally reached Fallen Leaf Lake area, and had to drive down a one-way narrow road that circles the edge of the lake. Since there were no stops along the way, we finally reached a parking lot area at the southern-most tip of the lake to park our car and look out at the lake from a small dock/lake. There was a building there too that has multiple floors which you can walk onto their balcony area to look out at the gorgeous lake. It's obviously a lot smaller than Tahoe itself, but the entire trip to Fallen Leaf Lake was so worth it because we saw wildlife! :) read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Brown bear sighting!! 4/24/2014 - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

Beautiful spot but . . . . . How can one downgrade a place of indesribable beauty? It is tough but the pure splendor of the natural beauty can not outweigh the negatives. The lake itself is full five stars. It is a mini Tahoe with clear blue waters and green forests and soaring vistas and rugged cliffs. The trails look intriguing and the lodge at the end of the road looks inviting. The small public beach and marina seem well maintained. So why the three stars? The whole fallen leaf area is horribly built up with HUGE houses hugging the narrow one lane road. All access to the lake is blocked except at the end. The drivers for the most part were rude. I was diligent about pulling over when I had room and the acknowledgment was non existant. The lodge and cafe are closed in October so there was not much there beside the marina and the beach. I really felt the experience at the lake was not worth the drive. I am glad I took the time to see it, but I don't think it is worth a return visit read more

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If Dr. Evil had Mini Me, why cant Lake Tahoe have..."Mini Tahoe" ?? Just a stunningly beautiful, clear, secluded alpine lake. Only a mile or two from the Big Lake Tahoe, but feels like you're in a whole other world. Would like to try camping up here sometime too. read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

So amazed by all the fantastic majestic places to explore along Tahoe. Fallen Leaf Lake was not as crowded on a Friday afternoon and we were able to access it from from the campground. We rode our bikes until we got to the sign for Fallen Leaf Lake. If you had a mountain bike, you could take it all the way down to the lake and onto the trails to take you to the Baldwin Dam and reservoir. The beach is not sandy getting into the water, so I would recommend that you bring water shoes. It was so refreshing to take quick dip before heading out onto the trail along Taylor Creek. The water was perfectly still and a great place to just chill. read more

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Absolutely stunning!!! Take the suggestions the lovely ladies at the register tell you!

If you're visiting Lake Tahoe, you need to stop by this lake, period. They have a campground here and its an easy 10min walk, barely a hike. The views are amazing, we went during the winter season and it was very quiet, not many people so it was really fun to spend some time there. This is definitely a must visit on your way to Lake Tahoe! read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

My wife and I checked out Fallen Leaf Lake on our exploratory tour around Lake Tahoe. I had seen Fallen Leaf Lake from the high elevations of Mount Tallac Trail. It looked gorgeous from above and it didn't disappoint when we were down at water level. We walked in to the lake through the campground. My wife said, "If we were going to camp, this is where I'd want it to be." The campground has massive pine trees, small meadows, and plenty of space in between each site. There didn't appear to be any parking at the lake or even camp sites on the lake. Everyone had to walk up to the lake through the woods, preferably on a path. The result is that there wasn't any visual pollution of cars or RVs. I admire this type of planning. Instead of posting rules about what you can or cannot do at the beach, make it slightly difficult to reach and there will never be a problem of too many people. The lake itself was crystal clear with the jagged snowcapped Mount Tallac peak in the background. read more

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Beautiful and kid friendly. Nice flat trail Except for the 75 foot decline to lake. Beautiful lake with mountains encircling it. Quick and easy. Great when you don't have too much time. read more

There's not much ugly in Lake Tahoe. Fallen leaf lake is so fucking gorgeous I literally can't even. Its surrounded by baggable peaks and giant pine trees. The air smells delicious and clean. Although I've never swam in it, I do see people on boats, kayaks and paddle boards on this pristine lake. There's a swimming area near the campground. Surrounding half of falling leaf lake is a road with some million dollar houses and shacks around it and the other half is a hike-able trail. I'm glad they kept it like that. There's actually a cool video I've seen online that shows the bottom of the lake and interesting artifacts that are down there! I guess people are studying it to try and figure out how it was formed. There's even tree stumps found at the bottom of the lake meaning at one point, the lake wasn't there! My favorite view of fallen leaf lake has to be from on top of mt tallac. read more

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My family and I used to go on vacation to Tahoe twice a year when I was a kid, but we're not really outdoors-y people, so I never knew about the existence of Fallen Leaf Lake until I came here with my boyfriend. It's literally 10 minutes from where we were staying, and there's a huge amount of ground to cover. There's a specific trail we wanted to find, but we had trouble initially. It worked out since we got to see different parts around the lake. Parking can be difficult to find if you're not camping here, but we got incredibly lucky (twice!) with a spot opening up in the day parking area. The part of the lake we explored was about 15 minutes walking from that parking lot. There's a clearing where lots of people hang out, row their kayaks, and bring their dogs. It was Oz's first experience with a large body of water, so we splashed around for a bit. Then my boyfriend starting throwing sticks into the water, and Oz swam after them! It was a proud moment for all of us. The area around the lake is gorgeous. Perfect for hiking, as there's not dangerous plants or little sticky things that get attached to our dog, like on other trails we've been to. The area is pretty flat, which makes for a nice stroll. I don't think we ended up following an actual trail, but we walked far enough to get sufficient exercise then went back to the car to drive for a bite to eat. We didn't explore as much as we'd like to, so we'll have to do Fallen Leaf part two when we come back! read more

Stay away... Nothing to see here, people - nope, nothing at all... You really won't like this place - I *promise*. Stick to the big lake down the road. All of these other 5-star reviews? Must be some kind of "insider" voting, because this lake is absolutely, most certainly NOT the most gorgeous freaking place you've ever seen in your life, complete with amazingly clear water, beautiful mountains all around, and a waterfall that buries Niagara Falls in terms of quality (not quantity)... Nope - none of those things. Might as well just stay at your casino and play the slots. ;) (wink-wink) Very tongue-in-cheek here, people... Relax! read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - From on a boat in the lake, looking west. - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

The beauty of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding wilderness is indescribable, and Fallen Leaf Lake is just another piece of that beautiful puzzle. Nestled among mountain tops overlooking the southern side of the lake, it's one of the easiest getaways when your looking for a nature retreat away from the casinos and over-priced restaurants. Depending on traffic, it's either a very short or long drive away from town on the western side of the lake. Once there, you'll need to park in one of the free public spots (unless you're camping) and hoof it about 1/4 mile through the campground to a well-maintained trail that leads you another 100 yards or so to the lake. Upon arrival, prep for natural wonder. The lake is a deep, dark blue and the surrounding mountains, depending on the season, are capped with snow and majestic pines. Tip: Shady spots on the beach are limited, so come early. Bring a towel for both swimming and laying on as the shore can be quite rocky. read more

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We braved the 1 lane road to Fallen Leaf Lake...to go to the beach there. It was great for our beach baby!! Plenty of shade...a raft to swim to...great spot for families! The fees for the boats were outrageous...oh my!! The general store has ice cream cones...which was a nice finish to another great picnic made by DD!! read more

This review is for the store and cafe at the south end of Fallen Leaf Lake. I searched and searched for an address to post it separately, but couldn't find one, but if you drive on the narrow, one-lane road all the way around the Lake, you will end up there...it's not hard to find. So we were headed to the Glen Alpine Trailhead, (just past the store), when we realized that we left our entire pack of food back at home. GAH! No picnic for us! I had read that there was a small store at the southern tip of the lake, so we crossed our fingers and carried on. We were so pleased to discover that not only was there a store but a lovely little cafe with a small menu of burgers and sandwiches! Thank goodness--we were starving! The food was surprisingly good for such an out-of-the-way spot, and very reasonably priced, too. In fact, everything was reasonably priced in the well-stocked store! I am used to getting totally fleeced at backcountry stores, but not here. On top of the good food and good prices, we got to sit out on the small balcony to enjoy our lunch with a gorgeous view of the lake (I've included a photo). There is a lovely beach directly below the store, and on the day we were there (a Saturday), there was only one family taking advantage of it. If you are headed for the Glen Alpine Trail, I would highly recommend a stop here before or after your hike...a terrific spot to sit back and relax! read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - View from the balcony of the store/cafe. - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

Amazing views and little private coves to set yourself up in for the day! Getting in here was a really good hike. Not too crowded while we visited so that was a plus! only downside is no restrooms read more

Fallen Leaf Lake is my happy place. It's a beautiful lake with very few people boating or being obnoxious. The water is clean and if you so desire you can rent a boat for very little. It would be my ideal place to train for a triathlon as you can go camp, swim the lake as much as you want and bike and run around Lake Tahoe. There's also a deli at the Lake. Think of it as a less developed Lake Tahoe. read more

Ignore those folks who are uncomfortable sharing the road all the way to the falls and the hiking/parking roundabout. That's what makes this place so cool it's not a two lane highfriggin highway! If crowds are to your liking may I suggest a very cool place up the highway to Emerald Cove where parking on the road puts your rental car in jeopardy. Just leave this place to me. NICE... Anything great needs to be slightly difficult to get to......nude beaches :) The lake is so beautiful. Personally I am a fan and now would rather camp below and skip the crowd scene at the BIG lake, thank you. But I love nature more than I love losing money on the slots as well. To each his own. I will come back for sure. A real find. read more

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I love mountain lakes. Nothing like the fresh clean mountain air and cold water on hot summer day. I also love lakes that are surrounded by pine trees, I don't know why, but it always makes for a very scenic atmosphere. Well, Fallen Leaf Lake fits the bill perfectly. And it's not nearly as crowded as Tahoe, not by a longshot. It has gotten a bit more crowded in recent years, as more people who think Tahoe is too crowded have started coming here. But again, it's never as crowded as Tahoe. Definitely, one of my favorite lakes in the area and I'm not a lake snob by any means. Just give me lake, some Pine trees, a packed lunch and a beach chair and I'm good to go. read more

Fallen Leaf Lake is truly one of the more beautiful places I have been to in California. I love the calm waters surrounded by mountains and forest. I'll be honest, I'm a redwoods coast kind of girl and don't usually care for lakes as a travel destination, but I LOVE Fallen Leaf Lake. Just thinking about it makes some of the tension and stress leave my body. Lake Tahoe is great, but during the busy season I just can't hang with it. I'm not into smog, jet skis, college beer fests, or bumper to bumper traffic. So I travel a couple of extra miles over to Fallen Leaf. The water is crystal clear. Trees come right down to the shoreline. Chipmunks sneak around waiting for you to put your sandwich down and look the other direction. There are trails for hiking, a campground for camping, and one side of the lake has a little cafe thing (I haven't been over there, though). It's great for kids, but I'd be cautious about taking Grandma. Check out the trails really well before hand and decide if you think your senior can handle it. I once saw an old man huff it almost all the way to the lake only to not be able to make it over the final hump. Bring a raft and a picnic basket or some sunshade and a book. Chill out under the smog free skies, and listen to the softly rippling waves of the lake. Also DON'T FORGET YOUR CAMERA (you'll be sorry if you do). read more

Fallen Leaf Lake - So tranquil and lovely. - Beaches Near Me - South Lake Tahoe, California

Awesome little side trip if you are in South Lake Tahoe........ take a drive to Fallen Leaf Lake. Beautiful scenery. Quiet and peaceful. We were there in March and it was crazy to see how many of the lake houses were boarded up for the 'off season'..... something I have never really seen in person, only in the movies! It's a nice drive along a narrow road. Just drive slow and take it all in. I loved this place! You will be rewarded with an awesome waterfall at the end of the road. A great spot for some pictures! read more

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Monday afternoon in early fall. The Irishman is in town and while searching for places he hasn't been to before in his previous visits to Tahoe, I decide to take him here. Yes, the drive along the lake can be a bit sketchy so just drive slowly and move carefully. It's really a one lane road, so if an oncoming car comes, whoever has the most room should pull over. Traffic on this trip was relatively light and people were very gracious with lots of waving at each other, pulling over and wishing each other a nice day. It actually reminded the Irishman of small country lanes in the country of his homeland. We ended up at the marina where we spent an hour walking around and enjoying the trails and views. The only downside - ugh - lots and lots of wasps. read more

Awesome lake! I found it in a hiking book that labeled it "best" for scenic view. It exceeded all expectations. Fallen Leaf Lake is about 1/2 a mile from the parking area with a few different hiking/walking trails around it. BONUS: Dogs are allowed off leash. read more

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Gorgeous hidden lake. Beautiful drive to see the lake and hike to waterfalls is the extra added bonus. I was on a mission to see some of the best hikes in Lake Tahoe. I did not fail this mission. The weather was pristine, the day gorgeous and this lake was breathtaking. It is extremely secluded and there are a few homes that are lucky enough to look out to this lake. I would love love love to stay in an Airbnb here! In addition, there is a general store, cabin areas to rent and some boating features for the summertime. One gentleman was fishing, but it did not look as though he had caught anything quite yet. read more

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