Name: Tahoe Roadtrip! Outrageous Eagle, Upper Velma, Fontanilli's and Dick's Lake Loop
Start: 2024-11-18T08:00:00-08:00
End: 2024-11-18T15:00:00-08:00

11 miles 2500ft. Our pace will not be rushed. This is a trail to take your time on and soak in the sights!
If you are RSVP'd for the Tahoe Roadtrip, you can sign up for this hike!
This is an unbelievable gorgeous lollipop hike. We start seeing beauty right away! It's so gorgeous that even doing a part of this hike will be rewarding.
Starting at the mesmerizing Emerald Bay, this hike offers a stunning blend of scenery, from towering granite cliffs to sparkling alpine lakes. Here’s a look at what you can expect:

### Trail Overview and Terrain

The hike begins at the Eagle Lake Trailhead near Emerald Bay, with a steep but manageable ascent. This section is a well-traveled path, making it relatively easy to navigate. The trail here is rocky but well-maintained, passing through forests of Jeffrey pine, white fir, and occasional red fir trees, creating a cool, shaded ascent. Along the way, you’ll spot numerous small boulders and exposed granite patches. Keep an eye out for the occasional downed tree trunk—these serve as natural benches!
After a brief climb, you'll reach Eagle Falls, a beautiful cascade that tumbles into the valley below. From here, the path narrows as it follows a winding route to Eagle Lake. The lake itself is nestled in a granite basin, surrounded by peaks that cast reflections on its crystal-clear water, making it an ideal spot for a brief rest or photos.

### Moving to Upper Velma, Fontanillis, and Dick’s Lake

Continuing onward, the trail grows slightly more rugged with some switchbacks and exposed granite patches. It’s here that the terrain becomes more alpine, and you may notice a change in the flora—hearty shrubs and wildflowers like lupine, Indian paintbrush, and mountain pennyroyal grow resiliently along the trail.
As you reach Upper Velma Lake, the landscape opens up, offering vast, unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains. Upper Velma is one of the largest lakes in the area, and its wide shoreline is dotted with rock outcroppings, perfect for taking in the scenery. The lake's stillness often attracts wildlife, so keep an eye out for mule deer, small marmots, and even the occasional black bear in the distance. Birdwatchers will appreciate glimpses of mountain chickadees, Steller’s jays, and maybe even a golden eagle soaring overhead.
Following Upper Velma, the trail passes Fontanills Lake, which is quieter and more secluded. The lake is fringed by hardy alpine vegetation, and it’s not uncommon to see dragonflies and waterfowl in its calmer areas.

### Reaching Dick’s Lake for Lunch

The final stretch to Dick's Lake is slightly strenuous, with some rockier, uneven sections and a slight ascent, but the reward is definitely worth it. Dick's Lake is stunning, with blue-green waters ringed by granite cliffs and lush pine stands. This lake is situated at a higher elevation, lending it an air of tranquility and providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The lake’s shoreline makes an ideal lunch spot, with plenty of flat rocks to settle down on while enjoying your meal. The area around Dick’s Lake is known for its wildflowers in summer, and you might spot bright splashes of purple monkshood and yellow cinquefoil.
After lunch, you’ll complete the loop and return to Emerald Bay. This hike offers a perfect mix of challenging terrain, incredible lake views, and diverse flora and fauna, making it a rewarding adventure through Tahoe’s scenic backcountry.
This is an epic adventure!!!

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Tahoe Roadtrip! Outrageous Eagle, Upper Velma, Fontanilli's and Dick's Lake Loop

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Tahoe Roadtrip! Outrageous Eagle, Upper Velma, Fontanilli's and Dick's Lake Loop

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