Highlights
- Stretch your legs or test your limits in the inspiring natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.
- Enjoy Tahoe’s forests, smelling the fresh scent of the pines.
- Reduce stress and recharge in Lake Tahoe's serene environment.
- Enjoy fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature.
Tour Description
The Granite Chief Wilderness sits above Olympic Valley in the Palisades Tahoe area of North Lake Tahoe, and it offers some of the most rewarding alpine hiking in the entire Sierra Nevada. Shirley Lake is the natural first destination — a glacially carved alpine bowl reached by a trail that follows a creek through wildflowers and granite, passing waterfalls on the way up. For groups who want to push further, the route continues, and a full-day effort brings you to the approximately 9,006-foot summit with views that stretch across the range.Tahoe Adventure Company's guides lead hiking tours through this terrain in summer and early fall. Whether your group is aiming for Shirley Lake on a half-day or the summit on a long day out, we will move at a pace that lets you actually experience where you are — not just cover the miles.
What to Expect
• Guided hike above Olympic Valley in the Palisades Tahoe area
• Shirley Lake — a stunning alpine lake at approximately 7,800 feet reached via creekside trail (elevation to be confirmed against current trail maps)
• Waterfalls and wildflower meadows along the ascent route
• Natural history and geology commentary from a certified local guide throughout
• Shirley Lake route suitable for fit beginners; summit route for intermediate to experienced hikers
Shirley Lake: The Ideal Half-Day Alpine Hike
The trail to Shirley Lake gains roughly 1,000 feet over about 2 miles — enough to feel like a genuine mountain hike, accessible to most reasonably fit adults. The creek parallels the trail most of the way, and the waterfalls just below the lake are among the most photogenic spots in North Lake Tahoe. Most people who do this hike want to come back the same summer.
Granite Chief Summit: A Full Mountain Day
The full summit route adds another 1,200 feet above Shirley Lake and brings you onto the Sierra crest. Lake Tahoe is visible to the east, the Desolation Wilderness to the south, and the ridgelines of the range extend in every direction. It is a demanding day, and doing it with a guide who knows the upper mountain well makes a significant difference — both for safety above treeline and for the quality of what you take away from it.
Reserve Your Granite Chief Hiking Tour
This area sees high demand in July and August. We recommend booking at least a week in advance. Call (530) 913-9212 or send an email with your group size, preferred difficulty, and available dates.
We have many other Guided Hiking Options including Judah Loop, Castle Peak, Martis Lookout, Martis Valley, Emerald Bay State Park, Spooner Lake State Park, Van Sickle State Park, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikes and more! TAC specialists suggest the best hiking trail based on ability level and lodging location. Call our office to discuss options!
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
The Shirley Lake route works well for fit beginners comfortable with moderate elevation gain. The full Granite Chief summit is better suited to hikers with some prior experience at altitude. We'll help you pick the right option when you call.
When does this trail open after winter?
Typically late June, though it varies by snowpack year. We track current conditions and will let you know what to expect when you book.
Can we summit Granite Chief in one day?
Yes. The full summit and back is a long but achievable day — typically 6 to 8 hours round-trip. An early start and a full lunch are both strongly recommended. Let us know your group's fitness level at booking.
Is parking available at the trailhead?
Yes. We will send you detailed directions and parking information when you confirm your reservation.
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