First up: Tahoe Meadows, a gorgeous high elevation spot less than 8 miles from Incline Village on the Mt. Rose Highway (Hwy 431).
We discovered this gem in 2017 and have returned frequently since because it’s pretty much perfect. As the snow recedes each spring (except in particularly snowy years, like 2019, when our late June visit featured a snowball fight in the parking lot instead of a hike on the trails — see pic below for ❄️), the meadow fills with gorgeous green grasses and colorful wildflowers, with icy cold snowmelt streams meandering among them. There are rock formations for climbing, logs for balancing, boardwalks and bridges for tromping over — kid heaven.
The 1.2 mile interpretive loop — easily accessible from the paved parking lot, near the bathrooms — is totally stroller-friendly, and even the tiniest walkers will be able to handle most of the flat, well packed dirt trail on foot (our little one was just 11 months at her first visit and walked a good bit of it). There’s a mix of sun and shade, spots to sit and relax, and interesting signs every once in a while. Dogs on leash are welcome.
If you’re interested in a more legitimate hike, Tahoe Meadows connects to a huge trail system, including the Tahoe Rim Trail.
If you’re staying anywhere between Kings Beach and Incline, Tahoe Meadows is super close, but even if you’re staying farther down the North Shore, it’s worth the drive.
If you’re interested in a more legitimate hike, Tahoe Meadows connects to a huge trail system, including the Tahoe Rim Trail.
If you’re staying anywhere between Kings Beach and Incline, Tahoe Meadows is super close, but even if you’re staying farther down the North Shore, it’s worth the drive.
