Incline Flume Trail

The Incline Flume Trail is a well-revered adventure above Incline Village that covers a lot of ground—offering a diversity of views. Though the entirety of the Incline Flume Trail stretches over 12.4mi out-and-back, this popular section of the route is manageable by most! We recommend wearing layers and sun protection as insurance against the ever-changing conditions by weaving between dense woodlands adorned with granite outcrops and exposed meadowlands. Additionally, as the route is located at high elevations, it is important to be mindful of altitude sickness, especially when visiting from sea level. Once your shoelaces are tied, and your water bottle is full, you’re ready for this epic trek.

Boasting other-worldly views, the Incline Flume Trail will make you feel as though you sit atop the world from the scenic overlooks of Lake Tahoe and the cloud-scrapping peaks of the Sierra Nevada Range. The lush forestlands and impressive views warrant countless photo opportunities, so make sure your camera is charged. Additionally, as this versatile trail attracts adventurers of all sorts, including bikers, it is important to be mindful of passers-by. We suggest heading out in the early morning to secure a spot in the parking lot and beat the crowds—and the heat! No matter the time of year, or time of day, the Incline Flume Trail is a great addition to your hiking itinerary.

Setting out from the parking lot and trailhead off Mount Rose Highway, the mildly undulating Incline Flume Trail travels northwest along the mountain ridge. Enjoy the shade of the towering trees, and though you make feel ridiculous, stick your nose to a Jeffery Pine—they smell of vanilla and butterscotch! Be mindful of wildlife as you wander, soon reaching an intersection. Keep left here, then take a quick right and the Incline Flume Trail, and you will be rerouted southeast. Bounded by granite bluffs and cliffs, this section of the path exposes epic vistas of Lake Tahoe in the southwest.

Navigating granite outcrops and snowmelt streams, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the scenery. The beauty of the Incline Flume Trail is that it can be customized to your liking—just turn around and head back whenever you please! We ventured about 2.2mi before heading back. Enjoying the wonderful landscape, we retraced our footing northwest along the path back to the junction. Here, veer left down Tyrolean Downhill-Shortcut, then onto Tyrolean Down Hill Trail before climbing back up the Tyrolean Downhill-Shortcut. Now back on the Incline Flume Trail, we headed back along the trail to the parking lot and trailhead, marking the end of your exciting excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the Incline Flume Trail?

The entirety of the Incline Flume Trail, which stretches over 6.2mi one-way, the hike is difficult. The most popular 4.3mi out and back hike is manageable by most, including children and novice hikers alike.

Can you hike the Incline Flume Trail?

Yes, you can hike the Incline Flume Trail, though it is a revered mountain biking route.

Where is the Incline Flume Trail?

The Incline Flume Trail is located above Incline Village, Nevada, on North Lake Tahoe.