Tahoe Rim Trail - Kingsbury to Star Lake

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This section of the Tahoe Rim Trail has the highest elevation of the whole rim, with spectacular views of South Lake Tahoe and the Carson Valley.

Be sure to bring plenty of food and water.

Beginning from behind the stagecoach lift at Heavenly Mountain Resort, the Tahoe Rim Trail quickly gains elevation on switchbacks, immediately rewarding you with phenomenal views of the Carson Valley. There is a bench with a lookout as you begin this trail. Multiple granite steps on switchbacks will begin to fatigue your quads.

The Tahoe Rim Trail traverses the top of Heavenly Valley before losing elevation and returning to the South Lake Tahoe side (western aspect) of the mountains beginning a series of climbs and descents on crumbling granite. You'll reach Star Lake, one of the most beautiful high alpine lakes in the Tahoe basin, serving as the turn-around point.

From here, head back the way you came. If you plan to turn this hike into a multi day adventure, it is best to camp at the turn around point of Star Lake because that is the best water source you'll find. Please camp at least 150 feet away from the lake to preserve it, but there are plenty of soft and level camp sites around. Since this trail is so high, nights will almost always be cold.

The Tahoe Rim Trail Association has received grant funding from REI since 1999. See their site for more details.