Ropi Lake via Pyramid Creek

The trailhead to begin this hike is located at: 38.8117 N, 120.1237 W. From Hwy 50 just south of Lake Tahoe, take Hwy 50 southwest for almost 11 miles, where you'll turn into the parking lot after crossing Pyramid Creek. There is a $5 day-use fee to park in the trailhead parking lot.

The hike is ~5 miles round-trip, though plan on it taking significantly longer than an average hike of this distance. You'll experience impressive elevation gain (roughly 1900 feet), and a lot of scrambling on big boulders in parts. The trail is not well marked past the first half-mile at best, so it's advisable to hike near or along Pyramid Creek, keeping the water within earshot or eyesight along the way. About 1.5 miles into the hike, you'll get to the base of Horsetail Falls (you have to do some bouldering to get here, so be sure to wear supportive, good-grip hiking boots). As you continue to climb to the top of the falls, the views are out of this world. This is a hike for those who don't take issue with heights!

From here, continue northwest toward Ropi Lake where you'll also be treated to Ropi Lake Falls. It's a fantastic lake for camping with an abundance of beautiful viewpoints. As one of the smaller lakes in the Desolation Wilderness area, it offers an uncrowded, quiet place to overnight. There is an abundance of wildlife including black bears, so it's advisable to bring along a bear can for any food items. And don't forget your camera!