Baby You Can Light My Fire

Snowshoe to Angora Ridge Fire Lookout

02.11.2016
Greater California
Dog Friendly

Want to go on a date that will really get your heart pumping? Strap on your snowshoes and hoof it to Angora Ridge Fire Lookout. You’ll climb for nearly 2 miles in this workout that’s a guaranteed calorie-burner. In summer, you can drive to the lookout’s high perch, but in winter, Angora Ridge Road is snow-blanketed and gated—the exclusive domain of snowshoers and skiers. Savor a mellow warm-up as the road cruises past an aspen-lined meadow. Soon enough, the grade changes from level to steep as you ascend through a pine and fir forest dotted with granite boulders. Enjoy the quadriceps pump and glimpses of mighty Mount Tallac, the South Shore’s highest peak. Keep climbing until the road tops out at Angora Ridge, elevation 7,260 feet, home of the 1920s fire lookout. Snowshoe around the buildings to enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye vista of Fallen Leaf Lake, 1,000 feet below.

From Hwy. 50 and Emerald Bay Road (the “Y”) in South Lake Tahoe, head west on Lake Tahoe Blvd. for 2.4 miles to Tahoe Mountain Rd., then turn right. Drive 1 mile, turn right on Glenmore Way, then left on Dundee Cir. (follow signs for Fallen Leaf Lake and Angora Ridge). Park near the gated road/trail. Dog-friendly! 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Walk on the Wise Side

    A wise man once said, “Walk it off.” And San Francisco has just the place for a colorful walk via a 2.7-mile loop along Philosopher’s Way Trail in the 318-acre John McLaren Park (S

    View
  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View
  3. woman hiking Mt Tam east peak
    Sponsored

    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View