'Floating Island' Lake after a climb of 900 feet. Above on the right is the peak, a further 2,600 feet remaining. What a day!.
Section on talus with Lake Tahoe to the left and Fallen Leaf Lake below.
The locals consider this hike/climb a rite of passage. Each to his own. No doubt, it's a tough hike of more than ten miles and 3,500 feet elevation gain. What complicates matters is the rough underfoot of rocks and stones which create the talus formation. In some ways, it is enjoyable to climb and make progress over the various surfaces. However, it does place additional stress on the feet, which spend an awful amount of our days pounding the terrain.
The views throughout the hike are incredible: One wonders through forests, followed by inclines in the wide open spaces including meadows. A major treat is looking and absorbing the view of Fallen Leaf Lake for most of the day; its changing colors are a delight. Of course, the massive Lake Tahoe is on show most of the way, more a sea than a lake. We frequently think of what we would have missed of the world had we not embarked on this adventure. Often said but always worth repeating: Each day, we will experience something new. In fact, nature reveals miracles daily. We are extremely fortunate to enjoy them.
As we climbed, we came across two other lakes, plenty of talus formations presented themselves and then we reached false peaks. These high points dash hopes because one feels one has arrived at the destination but no, not just yet. From there we noticed the mountains surrounding us. The sights are magnificent and allow 360-degree views. Across the way are Mount Ralston and Pyramid Peak, two giants which we have climbed and intend repeating. Below and between the mountains opposite are the unique set of lakes known as Aloha. Closer to us on Tallac, the vivid blue body of water, Gilmore, held our attention.
The final section, reaching the peak, requires some effort across and up a talus formation. From that point, if at all possible, the views improve. They are superb. The mountains toward San Francisco, the lakes, inlets and additional peaks on the other side of Tahoe, keep a person focused and mesmerized. We read a comment which would be difficult to dispute: 'The views on Mount Tallac', the author wrote, 'are probably the finest in North America'. It's indeed a bold statement and we would not, for a change, wish to comment upon its validity. Nevertheless, we understand why a person would be motivated to arrive at such conclusion.
Pyramid Peak to the left, an earlier success, with Aloha Lakes and Gilmore.
First view of Fallen Leaf Lake. (Reminds one of 'Mary in the Morning').
After 3 hours, a tough day, the final ascent awaits.
Leaving the peak, Fallen Leaf Lake below.
Always enjoy a nice, smooth and soft surface as we reach a false peak.
Some might consider this is an attractive scene as we look out on Lake Tahoe.
The last segment of the 360-degree views.
Could be defined as the peak.
Jen takes in a magnificent scene.
Just the color of the water was sufficient to mesmerize.
A foreign element settles on the surface.
It would be difficult to think of a better view. Subjective of course, probably because we have reached Pyramid Peak, at rear and Mount Ralston to the fore.
'Homeward bound' without a train, Simon.
After a long struggle, we discover they are false peaks.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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