Angora Lakes Tahoe
Discover three pristine alpine lakes, perfect for swimming, hiking, and water sports, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape crowds, find parking
Angora Lakes Tahoe
Best Time
Escape crowds, find parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover three pristine alpine lakes, perfect for swimming, hiking, and water sports, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds.
"Angora Lakes has some Breathtaking views!!!"
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The $10 parking lot fills quickly! Aim for early morning, especially on weekends.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from the parking lot is short but can be uphill. Good walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Trio of Alpine Lakes
Upper and Lower Angora Lakes
Discover three stunning, crystal-clear alpine lakes nestled in the mountains. Each offers unique beauty and tranquility.
Angora Lakes Resort
Lakeside
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or enjoy their famous lemonade at this charming, family-run resort.
Cliff Jumping Adventure
Designated spots
For the thrill-seekers, find spots for exhilarating cliff jumping into the refreshing lake waters.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Surrounding mountains
Enjoy easy to moderate hikes with breathtaking views, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The $10 parking lot fills quickly! Aim for early morning, especially on weekends.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from the parking lot is short but can be uphill. Good walking shoes are a must.
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent at the resort for a fun day on the water.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. The resort has a store, but packing your own is wise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The $10 parking lot fills quickly! Aim for early morning, especially on weekends.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike from the parking lot is short but can be uphill. Good walking shoes are a must.
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent at the resort for a fun day on the water.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. The resort has a store, but packing your own is wise.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the outdoors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Angora Lakes, calling it a peaceful escape and a hidden gem. The scenic hikes, refreshing swims, and the charming resort with its famous lemonade are frequently praised. While the parking lot can fill up quickly, the overall experience is considered well worth the effort, offering a serene alternative to busier Lake Tahoe spots.
"The hike is well worth the view. The lake is chilly, but bearable especially in at the heat"
Melissa Barroso
"Beautiful lakes. The larger one is protected by the mountain and trees so it actually blocks a lot of the wind. This makes swimming really enjoyable. The resort is family run and has kayaks and boards to rent. We hiked in from Fallen Leaf Lake which was a decent climb but they do have a $10 parking lot closer to here that’s only a 0.3 mile hike in."
Jeremy L
"One of my absolute all time favorite places to walk and enjoy nature! The drive up, alone, is beautiful in and of itself, with gorgeous trees, glorious views, and the chance to see some truly magnificent sites. Then you get to the parking lot, start your journey (some of it is uphill, keep in mind) and see THREE fantastic lakes. If you think to yourself, "Should I keep going?" after you get to the second lake, just know that the answer is YES!! The third lake is my favorite. So peaceful and breathtaking. -- P.S. If you go in the fall, you get to see some stunning foliage colors! My pictures/videos are from mid October 2022."
Hea Thor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Angora Lakes is located off Highway 89 near South Lake Tahoe. From the highway, you'll take a scenic drive to the parking area. Many visitors opt to park at the designated $10 lot, which is a short hike from the lakes, or park at Fallen Leaf Lake and hike in.
Yes, there is a $10 parking lot that is about a 0.3-mile hike to the lakes. However, this lot fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Biking is a popular way to access Angora Lakes, especially if you rent bikes in South Lake Tahoe. It offers a fun and active way to reach the beautiful alpine scenery.
The drive itself is considered beautiful, with gorgeous trees and glorious views along the way. It's part of the overall enjoyable experience of visiting Angora Lakes.
The hike from the parking lot to the lakes is relatively short, often described as 10 minutes or less, and is considered not hard. However, some parts are uphill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a direct entrance fee to access the lakes themselves, but there is a parking fee of $10 for the lot closest to the lakes.
The Angora Lakes Resort typically operates during the summer months. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check their official channels or call ahead if you plan to rent equipment or visit the store.
Yes, Angora Lake cabins are available for weekly rentals and are popular. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer and holiday weekends.
Dogs are generally welcome at Angora Lakes, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash. It's a great spot for dog owners to enjoy the outdoors with their pets.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Angora Lakes. The water can be chilly, but it's bearable, especially in the larger lake which is more protected from wind.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and cliff jumping. The Angora Lakes Resort also offers rentals and a store.
Angora Lakes Resort has a store that offers snacks and their famous lemonade. It's a quaint spot to grab refreshments after your activities.
Yes, Angora Lakes is considered a family favorite. The hike is manageable for children, and the calm waters of the larger lake are great for swimming and playing.
The lake water can be chilly, but it's often described as bearable, especially in the larger lake which is more protected from the wind.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Angora Lakes Resort area. It's always a good idea to confirm availability if you have specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area offers breathtaking views. Focus on capturing the pristine alpine lakes, the surrounding pine forests, and the reflections on the water. The resort area also provides charming photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Midday can be harsh, but the clear blue water is still stunning.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and time of year. It's essential to check current FAA and local park regulations before flying a drone in the Angora Lakes area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
Yes, fall is a spectacular time for photos at Angora Lakes, with stunning foliage colors adding vibrant hues to the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The larger lake offers calmer waters perfect for supervised swimming and splashing. Renting a kayak or paddleboard can add an extra layer of fun for the whole family. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks will save money compared to purchasing at the resort. Consider visiting mid-week to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience without spending extra on activities you might not have time for. 🐶 Dog Owners
It's a wonderful opportunity for your dog to experience the mountain air and beautiful scenery alongside you. Remember to bring water for your pet and be mindful of other visitors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Angora Lakes Experience: More Than Just a Lake
At the heart of the experience are the three distinct alpine lakes. While the hike from the parking lot is short, the reward is immense. The larger lake, often more protected from wind, is ideal for swimming and water sports, with rentals available at the historic Angora Lakes Resort.
Beyond the immediate lake area, the surrounding trails offer opportunities for further exploration and stunning vistas. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day of relaxation, a family-friendly outing, or a bit of adventure, Angora Lakes delivers. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature and escape the everyday.
Activities and Recreation at Angora Lakes
For those who love to be on the water, kayak and paddleboard rentals are readily available at the Angora Lakes Resort.
Paddling across the clear, cool water with the mountain backdrop is an unforgettable experience. Hiking is also a primary activity, with trails ranging from the short walk from the parking lot to more extensive routes for those looking for a longer trek. Thrill-seekers can find excitement with cliff jumping at designated spots, offering a unique way to experience the lakes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit