Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area

About

Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use Area sits on the south shore of Lake Tahoe near Emerald Bay at 7,100 feet elevation. This heavily-used day-use facility provides access to Desolation Wilderness via popular trails including the routes to Cascade Falls and Granite Lake. The site features vault restrooms (seasonal) and picnic tables in a forested setting. This is strictly a day-use area with no overnight camping permitted at the trailhead. Backpackers entering Desolation Wilderness may park overnight only if they have obtained the required wilderness permit in advance. Day hikers can pick up day-use permits at the self-serve station on site. Bear canisters are mandatory for overnight wilderness trips. Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited. Propane appliances with an on/off valve are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. All visitors must pay a day-use fee via QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app on a first-come, first-served basis.

Directions

Take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately eight miles to the Bayview Trailhead and Day-Use area located across from Inspiration Point.