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- Mount Tallac
9,733 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Tallac
Mount Tallac is a 9,733 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Mount Tallac Trail: 9 mi, 3,360 ft of gain, Class 1.
Mount Tallac at a glance
- Elevation9,733 ft2,966 m
- RouteMount Tallac TrailClass 1
- Distance9 mi3,360 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Mount Tallac Trail
From South Lake Tahoe, drive Highway 89 north past Camp Richardson and turn onto Mount Tallac Road to the trailhead. The Mount Tallac Trail climbs a moraine above Fallen Leaf Lake, passes Floating Island and Cathedral Lakes, then switchbacks steeply up rocky slopes to the summit ridge. The route is Class 1 but steep and rough up high, with long views over Lake Tahoe and Desolation. Expect crowds and full sun on summer weekends, and wind on the ridge. A free Desolation Wilderness permit is required even for day hikes; self-issue it at the trailhead.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Snow near summit
- Storms
Quests with Mount Tallac
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Tallac?
Mount Tallac is 9,733 feet (2,966 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Mount Tallac?
The Mount Tallac Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 9 miles with 3,360 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Mount Tallac?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Mount Tallac Trail, covering 9 miles with 3,360 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Mount Tallac?
Usually, if you are fit. The Mount Tallac Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 6 – 8 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Mount Tallac?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Mount Tallac with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list