TAHOE FALLS TriP in MAY Pt.2

Tahoe Falls continued

 I found the Desolation Wilderness trailhead located at the end of a upper Glen Alpine parking lot that I was surprised to encounter after earlier squeezing into the one remaining dirt slot off the road next to the lower falls. A lake bordered the parking area that included non-flushing toilet facilities, which were a small blessing after the bumpy ride and several bottles of water.
The upper falls path is clearly an often frequented destination for hikers. Signs indicated that permits (and fees) were not currently required for day use. 

In my experience, the upper Glen Alpine Falls was not as dramatic as the lower Glen Alpine but the walk was beautiful. Snow capped mountains framed the view and my eyes were rewarded with the myriad shades of the Lake Tahoe area forests. A broad range of greens and blues, yellows, soft mauve, white and grey coordinated into an ongoing masterpiece. 

My first glimpse of the upper falls came through a shield of brush and rock. I heard them long before I spotted them. The view required making my way through a few trees. I could have been disappointed but the fresh air and overall beauty was a blessing I could never totally capture no matter how many photos I took.

I encountered couples, families, backpackers and a ranger; and therefore, although I was unwisely alone, I was not in solitude on this trail.  My trek was fairly short but still called for hundreds of photographs, mental oohs and awes, and a sense of gratitude that life could still offer such natural beauty and splendor.

A collection of stumps catches my eye; pretty in its sad death as the water rushes by, feeding new life. What a great place for a picnic lunch or serene moments of meditation and regeneration.

As I maneuver along the bank aiming to capture various images, I wish I had some waders. I can't long regret my limitations as the water cleanses my soul and the beauty fills my heart. I finally head back to the path and to my mother waiting patiently in the car, snoozing it seems while I took my short hike and added hundreds of photos to my Lake Tahoe waterfalls collection.

If you want to view and photograph the Glen Alpine Falls, I recommend planning your trip for a weekday, early hours and before the snow entirely disappears. The extra plus of the snow on the mountains and the fullness of the rivers and streams is outstanding. Parking is known to be at capacity during peak season and weekends.  As well, this is weather changing territory so check the forecasts and carry something to protect your camera gear from potential rain. If your goal is to view and photograph waterfalls, the lower falls are easily accessible, require no hiking and are a must-do. The upper Glen Alpine falls are difficult to view and are also less dramatic.

After driving out on the one lane bumpy road back to Hwy 89, I sought out Cascade Falls which is accessed via the Bayview Campground. 

Lake Tahoe Falls Trip in May continues …..

Part I Lake Tahoe Falls Trip in May found here.