To get there, continue driving past the campground. This beautiful, cascading waterfall is a must-see, and you can easily drive right to it. Visit the WaterfallĪfter a fun day at the lake, make sure to stop by the Fallen Leaf Lake Waterfall (aka Lower Glen Alpine Falls). On any given day, you may spot anglers fishing from the shoreline or trolling the northeastern end of the lake. Cast your line for brown trout, rainbow trout, Mackinaw trout, lake trout, and Kokanee Salmon. Forest Service regularly stocks with several types of fish species. In addition to hiking trails and water activities, you can go fishing at Fallen Leaf Lake year-round! The lake is supplied with water flowing from the Glen Alpine Creek, which the U.S. Because the road to the marina is narrow and congested, we recommend calling ahead for reservations. It’s nearly impossible to resist taking a dip in this crystal-clear water! And if you’re looking for watercraft or boat rentals, you’ll find them at Fallen Leaf Lake Marina. Water Activitiesīesides postcard-perfect views, Fallen Leaf Lake is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, rowing, sailing, waterskiing and more. Other popular trails include the Upper Angora Ridge Trail and Angora Ridge to Lookout Trail. The 6.5-mile trail takes you around several sparkling lakes, over bubbling creeks, and past serene meadows filled with wildflowers. One of our favorites is the Floating Island/Mount Tallac Trail. If you’d like more of a challenge, there are several more difficult trails in the area.

The hiking trails from the campground to the lake are fairly level and easy to navigate. Once you visit this alpine paradise, it will become your new favorite spot. Nothing will prepare you for the breathtaking views you’re about to discover! Go for a swim in the cerulean water, keep on hiking, or bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the shoreline. After a short, 15-minute walk, you’ll reach the water. Once you turn onto Fallen Leaf Road, park on the shoulder and follow the hiking trails just beyond the campground. However, this is what makes it so special! With fewer visitors and untouched natural beauty, it’s a prime destination for hiking, swimming, fishing, and more. Spanning nearly 3 acres, this glacial, freshwater lake is much smaller and more secluded than nearby Lake Tahoe. Tucked away in the Eldorado National Forest, Fallen Leaf Lake is a Northern California treasure. Here’s what you’ll discover when you go! Fallen Leaf Lake is one of many hidden gems in Northern California. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, then you must plan a visit. Located just a mile southwest of Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake is a gorgeous oasis just waiting to be explored. However, most visitors don’t know that there is another beautiful lake nearby ⁠- and it’s hidden right in plain sight. Known for its crystal-clear water and picturesque mountain views, it’s no surprise that Lake Tahoe attracts so many tourists year after year.

Fallen leaf lake trails