Looking up at Mount Tallac (9,738') from Fallen Leaf Lake (6,377') at dawn.
Day hikers entering the Desolation Wilderness must fill out a free backcountry permit at the trailhead. Overnight hikers must purchase a backcountry permit beforehand.
Tallac's elevation makes it a good trail for late-season snowshoeing, though you may have to carry your snowshoes in over the lowest portion of the trail.
Old blazes mark the trail, though they do not appear consistently enough to be relied upon for navigation.
Trail junctions tend to be very clearly marked with wooden posts.
Gilmore Lake (8,294'), just before the steep climb to the summit begins.
Lake Tahoe becomes visible behind the peaks of Desolation Wilderness.
The final ascent is a scramble up sharp loose stone.
Mount Tallac summit at 9,738 feet.