Angora Lakes
A short uphill walk reaches two small lakes beneath a steep mountain backdrop. Angora is a good choice for an unhurried lake afternoon, with a little trail effort before you settle in.
- Distance
- ≈ 1 mi
- Elevation gain
- ≈ 270 ft
- Time estimate
- 45–90 minutes walking, plus lake time
- Effort
- Easy
Why go
Angora's appeal is how quickly the setting changes from parking area to mountain basin. The walk is short enough to leave most of the day for the water and surrounding scenery, yet the climb gives it the feel of a small hike. Families should allow time for uneven ground and a slower uphill pace rather than expecting a level beach approach.
At the upper lake, the cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop without a summit climb. Seasonal resort services can be a pleasant addition, but the place still works as a simple walk and picnic when planned with your own supplies. Respect the cabins and day-use rules, choose established places to sit, and carry every piece of rubbish back out.
The walk
Out and back · Angora Lakes parking area at the end of Angora Ridge Road
Begin at the Angora Lakes parking area at the road's end. Use the established uphill access trail and leave bicycles where the posted rules require.
Continue past the lower lake toward the upper lake and resort area, keeping to the trail and respecting private cabin spaces beside the public route.
After a lakeside break, descend the same path to the parking area. Take care on loose or uneven footing, especially when carrying beach supplies.
A route overview for planning. Carry an offline topographic map and follow current trail signs.
Getting there & going prepared
Access via Angora Ridge Road is seasonal and parking carries a fee. Check the resort's current day-use rules and hours before relying on services. Dogs must be leashed and kept out of the lake. The resort prohibits e-bikes beyond the parking area, camping, fires, and amplified music; visitors must pack out their own rubbish.
Keep in mind
The short approach is steep and uneven in places; cold lake water and cliff edges require care.
Sources & route notes
One-mile return doubles the tourism authority's half-mile approach. Approximately 270 ft is net ascent from its listed 7,200/7,470 ft endpoints, not a measured cumulative GPS gain. Difficulty describes the short snow-free walk, not accessibility. Timing excludes the length of your lake visit; seasonal window is an estimate and road gates control actual access.
- Visit Lake Tahoe route metrics
- Angora Lakes Resort visitor rules
- Forest Service road access
- Forest Service recreation site
Source review: Oct 16, 2026. Not a field report or a statement that the trail is open. Times and difficulty are editorial planning estimates.