Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
127.00 ft (38.71 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
2.60 mi (4.18 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Lam Watah Nature Trail offers an incredibly scenic hike perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the area without having to work up too much of a sweat. Parking at the trailhead is limited but free.

The trail begins by passing alongside a small pond and then through a beautiful meadow area. This meadow was owned by the Rabe Family where they used to graze cattle. It nearly became the site of a casino after the property was sold, in fact the concrete foundation was laid, but the land was then purchased by the USFS and has since been restored to its natural state.

This land was also used by the Native American Washoe as a summer camp of sorts. They called it Lam Watah which means “milling boulders by the stream.” As you pass through this beautiful area it’s easy to see why the Washoe kept coming back here year after year.

After passing through the meadow the Lam Watah Nature Trail enters a beautiful pine forest. Taking a left at the junction near here will lead you along the most direct route to Lake Tahoe. The trail ends at the lake and stunning Nevada Beach. This is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire lake. Enjoy your time here, and perhaps bring some food for a picnic.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic hike. Ends at stunning Nevada Beach.

Trailhead Elevation

6,298.00 ft (1,919.63 m)

Highest point

6,302.00 ft (1,920.85 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Historically significant
Wildlife
Family friendly
Flushing toilets
Big vistas
Potable water
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California
South Lake Tahoe, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.