Barker North to Vista Point - West Shore

The Barker North to Vista Point West Shore Trail is four miles from Tahoe City off Highway 89. You will find the beginning of this pawesome trail at Kaspian Campground, a little over seven miles from the turnoff onto Blackwood Canyon Road. This is a three-and-a-half-mile trail round trip, which is completely dog furiendly as long as Fido stays on-leash, is moderately difficult to hike. It is also considered part of the Pacific Crest Trail, so it is popular with hikers and equestrians alike. 

During the first mile, you will have quite a steep walk heading west along the southern side of Barker Peak and past fields full of mule’s ears and other gorgeous foliage. If you look to the east, you will see a beautiful view of Blackwood Canyon. About another quarter of a mile down the path, you and your fur baby will cross a small bridge over a brook surrounded by flowers such as paintbrushes, columbines, tiger lilies, delphiniums, and asters. 

You'll have plenty of shade from the forest full of red firs as you travel up into the volcanic terrain and plugs, which many people claim is a pawfect place to have a picnic lunch. From this high point in the trail, you will have an excellent view of the Desolation Wilderness area and Lake Tahoe. As you and your pup enjoy a bite to eat, take the time to get some pictures of the amazing hills and valleys surrounding the peak and don’t forget to get some selfies of you and Fido for your scrapbook and Facebook. 

There is no drinking water access along the trail, so make sure you bring along several bottles for you and your pooch. Also, the only restroom is at the trailhead at Kaspian Campground, so keep that in mind before you start your expedition. There's a lot of wildlife along the way, such as rabbits, squirrels, deer, and raccoons. You and your little fur buddy are going to love the Barker North to Vista Point West Shore Trail!