Waterfall Rides

McCloud Falls Ride

Classification: Moderate

Distance: 6.4 miles round trip

Highlights: Waterfall and seasonal colorful wildflowers

Location: Ward Creek Boulevard trailhead

Access from: West Shore Lake Tahoe

Description: From the trailhead, head north and follow an old US Forest Service road for the first mile which can be rocky at times but has little elevation climb. The trail follows along the snow-fed Ward Creek and meanders through forests of red fir, lodge pole and an occasional white pine. The floor of the canyon is filled with shrubs, including currant, bitterbrush, and manzanita plus colorful seasonal wildflowers- corn lilies, larkspur, snow flowers, tiger lilies, Indian paintbrush, cow parsnips, and lupine. The road turns into single track trail leading you to the Ward Creek Bridge. After the bridge crossing the trail becomes a moderate uphill climb on rocky stairs through stands of shady aspen and old growth pine. Gaps in the forest highlight views of Ward and Twin Peaks. Continuing on the trail you soon will hear the falls, a 30 ft. tall water fall. Enjoy the waterfalls and a rest before turning back around to the trailhead.

Van Sickle Bi-State Park Waterfall Ride

Classification: Easy

Distance: 2.5 miles round trip

Highlights: Spectacular Lake Tahoe views and a waterfall

Location: Van Sickle Bi-State Park trailhead 

Access from: South Shore Lake Tahoe

Bikes Allowed: Yes

Description: Beginning at the Van Sickle Bi-State Park trailhead continue on the trail uphill. The trail is well marked with orange confidence markers indicating your route. After a short distance you will reach another trail junction; take a left (don’t follow signs for Saddle Rd.). The next .25 miles are steadily uphill with incredible views of the south shore and Lake Tahoe until you reach the waterfall. The stream below the cascading waterfall is crossed by a newly constructed bridge. Enjoy the views and rest before turning back around to the trailhead.