Desolation Drama

Oval-shaped Dicks Lake is one of the scenic gems of the Desolation Wilderness. Set in a dramatic glacial cirque with 9,974-foot Dicks Peak soaring behind it, the lake makes a perfect day-long trek or quickie overnight backpacking trip. Don’t be daunted by the first 2 miles, which are the steepest of the trip. From the trailhead at Bayview Campground, there’s no warm-up before you start an 850-foot ascent to Granite Lake, one mile in.

Catch your breath at an overlook where the trail breaks out of the conifers to expose broad views of Emerald Bay, Cascade Lake, and Lake Tahoe. Shortly beyond lies Granite Lake, another good rest stop before the next steep ascent to the ridge near Maggie’s Peaks. From here, the grade mercifully levels out, and the walking is easy for a 1.7-mile stretch to the Dicks Lake junction. Turn left and climb gently over a series of low, glacially carved ridges and basins, where it’s easy to imagine the Ice Age flows advancing and carving out the rounded peaks and polished canyons. When you reach the shores of Dicks Lake, pick your spot on a granite slab, then picnic or sunbathe to your heart’s content.

From the Y-junction of U.S. 50 and Hwy. 89 in South Lake Tahoe, drive 7.5 miles northwest on Hwy. 89 to Bayview Campground on the left. Park outside the camp, then walk to the back of the camp to the trailhead. Day hikers must fill out a self-serve wilderness permit at the trailhead. Dog-friendly!