Tahoe National Forest

Mileage: 2.5 miles one way
Elevation: 7800-8740 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Use Level: Heavy
Season: June-October
Topographic Map: Homewood
Access: From Interstate 80 in Truckee, take Highway 89S to Tahoe City. Continue south on 80 from Tahoe City another 4.2 miles to Caspian Picnic Area. Turn west on Blackwood Canyon Road. The road follows Blackwood creek for 2.3 miles, crosses the creek and then climbs 4.8 miles to Barker Pass. Ellis Peak Trailhead is located on the south side of the road where the pavement ends on the summit.

Trail Description: From the trailhead, the trail steeply ascends via several switchbacks under a forested canopy until it reaches the ridge (8270'). Following the ridge for 1.5 miles, the trail passes through sections of open forests and meadows full of wildflowers. There are also several good views of Lake Tahoe to enjoy along the way. The trail soon intersects a dirt road. To reach Ellis Lake, follow the road to the left for .2 miles. This small, tranquil lake makes an ideal spot for a picnic. To reach Ellis Peak, follow the road to the right. Approximately 100 yards down the road, another road will take oft to the east. Follow that road for .3 miles to Knee Ridge (8520'). From here it is just a short distance to Ellis Peak (8640'). Hikers who reach the top are rewarded with spectacular views at Lake Tahoe and its surrounding peaks to the east; and to the west, equally impressive views of Granite Chief Wilderness and Hellhole Reservoir.

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