Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Trail TRT, NV

Tahoe Meadows is a relatively flat area on the Tahoe rim that is easily accessible from a paved road and gives the general public an opportunity to experience a section of the Tahoe Rim Trail. It is handicap accessible and placards explain the flora and fauna of the area as well as how this became a meadow and its transition back to forest. This is the origin of Ophir Creek which meanders thru the meadow on its way to the valleys below. The water from Ophir Creek was critical to the flumes operating in this area. The scenery here was used repeatedly during the first two years of the TV show Bonanza and they returned in the late 1960's.


Originally called Sheep Flat and later called the Mt Rose Meadows, Tahoe Meadows acts as a connector trail for the Tahoe Rim Trail. If you are hiking thru on the Tahoe Rim Trail you could cut the mileage in half. Most of the elevation gain is outside of the loop as the trail rises to connect at the Mt Rose, Tamarack Peak Loop Trailheads. The trail is wide and finished with crushed limestone with wooden foot bridges where necessary. Because it is a lush alpine meadow it attracts all sorts of animal activity. The summer is short at this altitude and nature is in a hurry, take advantage of the many resting spots and stop to enjoy the sights and sounds. The loop rises to an overlook for a panoramic view of the granite outcroppings, the meadow and in the distance Lake Tahoe, surrounded by snow covered peaks. If you are hiking thru watch for the blue arrows, blue dots, or blue signs for the Tahoe Rim Trail. The trailhead has restrooms.

2008-07-05 AZLOT69