Looking for an easy afternoon workout? Want a view but don't have time to climb a peak?

Just visiting and want to take home a panoramic picture of Tahoe?

There are plenty of short easy going walks past spectacular waterfalls, crisp alpine lakes and breathtaking vista views.

So if you're looking for a nice leisurely way to get out, breathe some mountain air and be one with nature, try out one of these five easy going hikes.


Tahoe Meadows/Ophir Creek

Total length: About 5 miles round trip

Type: Out and back

Terrain: Gradual incline

Park along the Mt. Rose Highway 431 at the Tahoe Meadows west edge. Chances are there will be a lot of cars parked there, so it should be obvious. Follow the Ophir Creek trail into the edge of the trees. After about a quarter of a mile, take the Tahoe Rim Trail fork to the right (west) up away from the meadow. It's a gradual incline with a slightly steeper climb at the end up and out of the trees. Once you come out of the trees and behold the view of Tahoe, pick a footpath down and find one of the many granite boulders to park it on, have a snack and take in the view before strolling back down the way you came.


Brockway/Spur View Trail

Total length: About 2.5 miles

Type: Out and back

Terrain: Moderate incline

Driving north on Highway 267 out of the Tahoe Basin, turn right off the highway about a quarter mile below Brockway Summit and park at the Tahoe Rim Trailhead. Take the Tahoe Rim Trail north up the hill. After about half a mile of switchbacks, take the Spur View Trail, which is clearly marked by a sign. Continue through the switchbacks up to the viewpoint, which provides a panoramic view of Lake Tahoe to the south. Also a great place to sit, eat some granola and take in the Jewel of the Sierra before taking the trail back down to the trailhead.


Eagle Rock

Total length: About 1 mile

Type: Out and back

Terrain: Steep incline

Without a doubt, for the miles, Eagle Rock is the best view on the lake. While it's not the highest peak around, the rock juts out over the road virtually putting viewers above the water, and it's about a 15 minute walk from the road. Drive south from Tahoe City on Highway 89 towards South Lake Tahoe. Park on the road just past Barker Pass Road. and the Blackwood Canyon entrance. On the other side of the ranch-style fence, follow the trail west until it branches off up under the power lines. The trail is skinny and quite steep, but it's short. Climb for about 150 yards up to the ridge, turn east and make your way out onto the edge of the rocks. A great place for a scenic photograph without the effort of a long hike.


Vikingsholm to D.L. Bliss State Park

Total length: About 3.5 miles

Type: One way with shuttle

Terrain: Gradual

Shuttling is the way to go on this shoreline stroll. From Tahoe City, drive south on Highway 89, park one car at D.L. Bliss State Park. Pile in another vehicle and continue south to Emerald Bay Parking lot. Walk down to Vikingsholm and follow the trail east along the bay's northern shoreline, through the marine campground, around the point and north along some of Tahoe's most breathtaking shoreline up to D.L. Bliss State Park. Make sure to wear or bring swimming clothes, because this area of shoreline is loaded with perfect rocks for jumping into the cool clear water of Lake Tahoe and the trail ends at the white sandy D.L. Bliss beach.


Eagle Falls/ Eagle Lake

Total length: About 2 miles

Type: Out and back

Terrain: Moderately steep

With breathtaking views of Tahoe over picturesque Emerald Bay, as well as a crisp clean alpine lake at the end, the Eagle Lake trail has got it all. Park at the Eagle Falls parking lot on the west side of Highway 89 at Emerald Bay. Take the trail west out of the lot. Those looking for something super short will find Eagle Falls only 200 yards up the trail. Those looking for a swim should cross the bridge under the falls and continue up the trail to Eagle Lake. The lake is often crowded, but with treeŠlined shores it is perfect for an afternoon swim on a hot summer day. And hiking back down the trail affords constant views over Emerald Bay.


Safety

Even the shortest hikes can be dangerous. Always bring a charged cell phone and simple first aid kit including bandages, antiseptic wipes, a whistle, mirror and bandanna. And always carry a compass and map of the area in which you are traveling. Make sure to carry water and spare food in case of emergency.





This story originally appeared in the North Lake Tahoe Bonanza on July 8. The http://www.tahoebonanza.com">North Lake Tahoe Bonanza is owned by Swift Communications, tahoe.com's parent company.