This moderate hike rewards with great scenery and a string of five sparkling lakes open for fishing and swimming. It's about 5 miles round-trip from the trailhead on Alpine Meadows Road to the first lake. You can also come in via Barker Pass. Please respect the wilderness: stay on the trail, keep your dog close and pack out or bury all waste. This is a popular trail, so if you like solitude come during the week rather than on the weekend.
Getting there: Take Highway 89 south from Tahoe City about 10 miles to Alpine Meadows Road. Turn right and continue about two miles to the trailhead on the right, near the intersection with Deer Park Road. Parking is available alongside the road. No fees or permits are required.