As much as I'm looking forward to the splitter weather at Cookie and Arch Rock this weekend, I'm also stoked for next weekend, when I'm taking a date to go snowshoeing around Tahoe. Only problem is that I need beta - does anyone have a recommendation for a good trail, on either the north or south side of the lake? I've heard that Castle Peak near Boreal is good, but it'd be nice to be up near Eagle Lake Cliff or somewhere similar, where we could get a view of the lake and Emerald Bay. A distance of between 5 & 10mi would be ideal, probably no more than 1000' of gain.

Castle Peak is awesome. I highly recommend.

You don't need snowshoes to walk on either of those trails right now. They are packed solid. If you wanted to get off the trail, you'll need them. Otherwise hiking boots and maybe a trekking pole is sufficient.

Maybe check out a segment of the Tahoe Rim Trail? An easy peak?

Carson Pass, past the west side of Elephant's Back, south/southwest to Round Top Peak, 10,380' (I think). Nice view of Lake Tahoe from a beautiful summit if clear. Little bit of work, kind of a long day, but worth the trouble. It's good to be in shape for this one, but eminently doable. One of the best.

If you drop a car at Kirkwood, or bum a ride from Kirkwood back to the summit, you can make a long day trip from Round Top to Kirkwood and avoid the out-and-back.

Don't forget your friggin' SnoPark Pass!

Thanks, all, for the suggestions. I was also considering that Mt. Ralston or another trail around Desolation Wilderness could be a good option. Any thoughts?

AdamB - I'm willing to bet the snowshoeing in NC isn't that good. But I imagine the friction is delightful.

I think the Tahoe Rim Trail is also a good idea. Not too hard but you get views down both sides of the Sierra Crest: Tahoe to the west and Carson Valley to the east.

Here is a pic I took snowshoeing this trail two years ago:

Speaks for itself January 2011 Submitted By: Aerili on May 20, 2011

haven't had a chance to explore the snowshoeing yet, but yes, the friction is stupendous.