Lakes Basin Ridge Trail

The Lakes Basin Ridge Trail is a glorious trail that travels past forests, mountains, lakes, and gives you and Fido a beautiful sense of nature while getting some much needed one-on-one peaceful time together. The area itself is part of the Tahoe National Forest, with the trail covering nearly 11 miles, made from compacted dirt and rocks and keeps up a constant 3-foot wide girth throughout the route.

Just like the name of the trail implies, you'll see plenty of lakes and will first encounter Carr Lake, where the trail begins in Carr Lake Campground. The lake is surrounded by tall alpine trees, with a fishing pier and boat launch in the campground connecting to the lake. Free parking is allowed for hikers along with amenities like a vault toilet and trash bins,  but campsites require a fee before staying the night.

The hike starts out gradually, with a dirt pathway covered in shade, offering views of the vast forests. In between looks, you'll get the sights of the multiple lakes along the way from Feelay Lake, Island Lake, Round Lake, and Milk Lake. Milk Lake is about five miles into the hike, but once your there, its crystal blue waters will beckon you to sit down at one of the benches around the lake, or stay at one of the 5 primitive camping sites there.

Continuing on will give you the chance to see plenty more. Right after Milk Lake, there's an unmarked trail to the right that has overlook views, and along the main trail, there are sights like deer, beavers, and raccoons. The next half of the trail reaches its final lake location at Glacier Lake, a gorgeous valley lake with snow around it well into the summer. 

The trek back is easy as you just have to turn around to get back. An easy-going route, plenty of natural landmarks, and quiet nature scenery- what more can you and Fido ask for?