Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike

Hike amongst avid adventurers along the Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake. This wonderful hike boasts breathtaking vistas of the High Sierra and the crystal-clear alpine lakes that decorate the mountain basins. As the route travels through high elevations, we recommend you wear layers and check the forecast prior to your trek to mitigate the chances of getting caught in an afternoon storm.

Additionally, when hiking in the off-season, we recommend a pair of microspikes or snowshoes to navigate the terrain more safely. Be sure to keep an eye and ear out for wildlife as you venture into the wilderness.

Setting out from the Tahoe Rim Trailhead, the Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake Hike tracks south over the Luther Pass Road. Here, you will make your way up several switchbacks along Big Meadow Creek, before eventually arriving at an intersection. Veer left here over Big Meadow Creek and into Big Meadow, where you will be able to revel in the beauty of the luxuriant meadowlands. Continue your trek, gradually climbing up into the more forested area of the hike. At the next intersection, take a sharp right onto Meiss Meadow/Round Lake Trail, before taking a sharp left onto Dardanelles Trail.

This path will guide you up to the shore of Dardanelles Lake, a charming alpine pool bounded by towering pines and craggy granite bluffs. After reveling in the scenery, retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.