Martis Peak Fire Lookout Hike

Explore along the Martis Peak Fire Lookout Hike and indulge yourself with the epic alpine panoramas. Though taxing, the views prove well worth the effort! Covering lots of ground, the Martis Peak Fire Lookout Trail wanders through diverse terrain types, so make sure to wear layers as insurance against changing conditions. Additionally, we suggest acclimatizing to the area’s altitude prior to your trek, as you will be ascending into high elevations. Note: this well-known route is often busy with backpackers, so try heading out in the off-season if you are seeking a more secluded adventure! If you plan on hiking after a good snowfall, be sure to pack a pair of snowshoes or microspikes to easily navigate the snow-covered and icy terrain.

Setting out from the Tahoe Rim Trailhead, the Martis Peak Fire Lookout Hike climbs steeply up a set of switchbacks. Shaded by looming pines and red firs, you will eventually reach Picnic Rock. From here, the trail will plateau briefly, before ascending more intensely through a winding section of the route. Mind your footing on the steep terrain and you will eventually reach an intersection with Martis Peak Road. Turn left onto the route, then right up to the summit of Martis Peak.

At this point, the terrain will be almost entirely exposed, providing sweeping panoramas of Lake Tahoe and the bounding snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada. After reveling in the views, retrace your footing down Martis Peak Road, this time continuing down the road at the junction. Eventually, you will reach an intersection with the Tahoe Rim Trail and retrace your steps down the path back to the trailhead.