Mother's Day Wildflower Hikes

This Mother’s Day, bring the family to enjoy a wild flower hike in Lake Tahoe. Rather than ordering flowers from a florist, celebrate the flowers grown in nature. From gentle family strolls to more adventurous treks, there’s a wildflower hike here for everyone.

When the snow melts and the sun begins to warm the alpine slopes of North Lake Tahoe, the region bursts into bloom with a vibrant display of wildflowers. Late spring and early summer transform Tahoe’s meadows and trails into a colorful canvas, drawing hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

Paige Meadows

One of the most beloved spots is Paige Meadows, just outside Tahoe City. This series of open fields and winding paths offers a relaxing hike through an ever-changing spread of blooms—golden mule’s ears, wild lily, paint brush, purple lupine, and delicate blue flax are just a few of the flowers dotting the landscape. It’s a perfect place for a sunrise or sunset walk, with the added bonus of panoramic views.

Paige Meadows is located 2 miles south of Tahoe City off highway 89. Turn right on Pine Ave and take another right on Tahoe Park Heights Drive. Continue straight onto Big Pine Drive and turn left at Silver Tip Drive and follow the road to the end.

Pine Drop Trail

For those looking for an easy, scenic route, the Pine Drop Trail near North Tahoe Regional Park offers a short loop through wooded areas and sunny clearings filled with spring blossoms. The trail is friendly for kids and leashed dogs, making it ideal for families eager to enjoy nature together.

Take Highway 28 to National Avenue in Tahoe Vista. Turn left on Donner Road and follow to the North Tahoe Regional Park. You can also access the trail from 267 and hike back to the North Tahoe Regional Park.

Lake Forest Beach

Another seasonal highlight is the wildflower bloom near Lake Forest Beach, where lupines paint the shoreline with swathes of purple and blue. With the lake’s clear waters as a backdrop, it’s a serene spot to pause and soak in the beauty.

Lake Forest Beach is located at the end of Bristlecone, off Lake Forest Road in Tahoe City.

Marlette Lake

For more adventurous hikers, the trail to Marlette Lake provides a longer, moderate hike through diverse terrain. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with meadows teeming with wildflowers and expansive views of the surrounding mountains. This trail is located on Highway 28 on the East shore, accessible from Spooner Lake parking area.

Watson Lake

Those seeking solitude and a more remote experience might head to Watson Lake, tucked away above Northstar. This hidden alpine lake is ringed by tall grasses and flowering shrubs, making it a peaceful and less-traveled escape. This hike is accessed via the Northstar resort chair lifts, beginning at the Zephyr Chair Lift.

From rolling meadows to quiet lakeshores, North Lake Tahoe’s wildflower hikes offer a chance to reconnect with nature at its most vibrant. Remember to tread lightly, stick to marked trails, and bring your camera—spring in Tahoe is fleeting, but the memories will last.

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