Azure Lake Desolation Wilderness Trail Guide and Tips

The Azure Lake Desolation Wilderness Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike that requires preparation and planning. Be prepared to hike 30 miles round trip to reach the lake.

The trailhead is located at the Desolation Lake Trailhead, which is accessible by car. It's a 2-mile drive from the parking lot to the trailhead.

The trail begins at an elevation of 7,500 feet and gains 4,000 feet over the course of the hike. This means you'll be hiking uphill for most of the day.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as a map and compass or GPS device.

The Bay View to Azure Lake trail begins at the Bay View campground near Emerald Bay, starting at 6880 feet above sea level.

This trail is a lung-collapsing uphill stretch that eventually leads to an epic overlook at just over 8000 feet, where you can enjoy breathtaking views.

The trail is only a couple of miles long, but the altitude can be challenging, especially if you're not used to it.

To access the trail, you'll need to get a day permit, which can usually be picked up at the trailheads. Overnight trips require coordinating with the ranger station.

The trail is part of the Eldorado National Forest and the Desolation Wilderness, so be sure to follow any regulations and respect the area.

The best time to go hiking is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.

Make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly.

Pack layers of clothing to stay comfortable in varying temperatures.

Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up.

It's a good idea to let someone know your hiking plans and estimated return time.

Leave no trace behind by packing out any trash or waste you create during your hike.

The trail up to Maggie's Peak is steep, and many people leave the trailhead heading towards Cascade Falls.

It's essential to be aware of the elevation gain, as it can be challenging, especially for those not accustomed to high altitudes.

The summit of Maggie's Peak offers a breathtaking view of Snow Lake and Azure Lake, as well as the peaks of Desolation Wilderness.

Be prepared for a hike that involves steep granite, cliffs, and water courses, which can be difficult to navigate.

If you're planning to hike in Desolation Wilderness, be sure to check the trail conditions, as there may still be a lot of snow at higher elevations.

Permits are required for hiking in this area, and you can usually pick up a day permit at the trailheads, but overnight trips require coordinating with the ranger station.

The route to Azure Lake from Bayview Campground is not well-marked, and it's easy to get lost, so be sure to bring a map and compass.

The lake itself is a stunning example of a high Sierra lake, with granite plunging into icy blue water and little waterfalls of snowmelt gurgling loudly.

The hike back to the trailhead can be just as challenging as the hike up, especially when navigating through dense brush and granite boulders.

If you do decide to take the route to Azure Lake, be prepared for cross-country travel and steep terrain, and consider bringing a map and compass to help navigate.

The Azure Lake Desolation Wilderness is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts.

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, this wilderness area boasts an impressive 64,000 acres of pristine lakes, meadows, and forests.

The lake itself is a striking sight, with its deep blue color that's reminiscent of a clear summer sky.

Its waters are crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding peaks and valleys like a mirror.

The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and mule deer.

These majestic creatures roam freely through the wilderness, giving visitors a glimpse into the region's untamed beauty.

As you hike through the wilderness, you'll notice the unique geology of the area, with its granite peaks and glacial lakes.

The terrain is rugged and unforgiving, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

The Azure Lake Desolation Wilderness is a challenging destination that requires careful planning and preparation.

Make sure to bring plenty of water, food, and a map, as cell phone reception is limited in this remote area.

The Bay to Azure Lake hike is a must-do for any Tahoe hiking enthusiast. This trail begins at the Bay View campground near Emerald Bay and takes you up-hill to an epic overlook at just over 8000 feet.

The trailhead is located near the Bay View campground, which is a great place to start your hike. Be prepared for a lung-collapsing long stretch, especially if you're not used to the altitude like I wasn't.

The trail is well-traveled and leads to a stunning overlook with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. From there, you can continue on to Azure Lake, a classic example of a high Sierra lake.

Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque Granite plunging into the icy blue water. You'll also hear the soothing sound of little waterfalls of snowmelt gurgling loudly.

To get to Azure Lake, veer off the mapped trail and follow a well-worn route that's surprisingly not marked on any maps. The trail is downhill, so you can finally breathe again and enjoy the scenery.

Remember to protect your gear, especially your camera, as you navigate the boulder-filled terrain. You might even find a 'biner or two along the way.

The route back to the trailhead takes you through Cascade Creek Canyon, where you'll need to down-climb huge granite boulders and do some bushwhacking. Don't worry, it's all part of the adventure!

If you're planning to hike this route, be sure to grab a South Lake Tahoe Basin Recreation Topo Map by Don Douglass, which shows the trail. You'll also need to get a permit, which can usually be picked up at the trailheads for day trips or coordinated with the ranger station for overnight trips.