Kingsbury to Star Lake on the Tahoe Rim

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fishing · 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.

Backpackers must camp within 300 feet of the trail corridor and at least 200 feet away from water sources. Campfires are prohibited at all times of year. Dogs are allowed and should be kept on a leash within high-use areas. Bearproof food storage is strongly recommended, though not required on this section of the Tahoe Rim Trail.

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 eventually reach Star Lake, one of the most beautiful high alpine lakes in the Tahoe Basin. This makes a great camp spot and a reasonable turn-around point.

Star Lake provides great views, decent fishing, and the best water source for camping. Please camp at least 150 feet away from the lake to preserve it. You can find plenty of soft and level camp sites at a suitable distance back in the forest. Since this trail is so high in elevation, 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.