Five Lakes Creek Trailhead, Olympic Valley

Nestled in the foothills of the Granite Chief Wilderness peaks just north of Lake Tahoe, the Five Lakes promise dramatic yet tranquil surroundings, a place to relax, fish or swim. The hike starts out at the junction of Alpine Meadows Rd and Deer Park Rd, rises gently towards the Five Lakes plateau and up the side of KT22 peak through expanses of exposed granite and jagged volcanic rock. The two mile trail maintains little more than a slight incline, but still gains nine hundred feet of elevation before reaching the lakes. On the warmest Tahoe days this trail lacks a great deal of shade, but the lakes themselves provide plenty of cover from the sun and opportunities to cool off in the waters.

About 5 miles total and about 1,100 ft of elevation gain. The water at the lakes is pretty low right now but beautiful nonetheless. Dogs can be off leash so definitely a must for dog owners!