Second on the Hiking Lake Tahoe Series is the popular and stunning Monkey Rock Trail that offers summit sweeping views of aquatic blue Lake Tahoe.
Monkey Rock. Easy 2.2 miles out and back
The trail to Monkey Rock is easily one of our favorite hikes and one to return to often just for the summited views. The very first time we took on this hike, it was in June and it snowed at the summit! that was such an amazing treat.
Now, there is history to how the rock came about, but I discuss history here other than many do consider it a spiritual rock. Regardless, Monkey Rock has become a beloved sight in Lake Tahoe’s east shore. The trail is very popular during 3 of the 4 seasons. The rock is carved and resembles a monkey or gorilla with an astounding view of the turquoise Lake Tahoe behind it. You can get an amazing 360 view at the summit with the west shore also in a distance. It is just the easiest hike to get to a summit for viewing much of Lake Tahoe including the often snow capped mountains.
Parking
The best parking is along the east shore in Incline Village. During peak season, the price can increase rapidly the longer you stay. There is not much road side parking. if you arrive early, you may be able to snag some road side parking.
Trail
The trail has a so call short and long or the regular route. The trail starts next to the restaurant on the paved pave. There are signs directing you where to go to find the trailhead. Once you begin, it is a clear path of mostly dirt. Eventually, you will reach a section where there is a steep path up. This is the short way. The short way consist of going up the rather steep sandy dirt path that leads straight up to the summit while the long or regular route just takes you around which is still fairly short.
The 2.2 miles out and back references the regular route.
At the top of the summit, if you face east, you will see a rock resembling a gorilla or monkey with a view of Lake Tahoe shoreline behind it. Yes, you can get to the monkey for some photos. The path down is not all clear and is steep in some parts, so watch your footing. Often there is a line to take photos, so be patient!
Around the corner is the view of the east shore trail all the way to the Sand Harbor Beach! Everywhere you turn up here is a beautiful view of Lake Tahoe.
Happy Hiking! Hope you visit Monkey Rock soon and enjoy it just as much as we have!
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