A short East Shore climb with a view
Monkey Rock sits above the Incline Village and Tunnel Creek side of North Lake Tahoe. The carved rock gets the attention, but the real draw is the open look over Tahoe from the East Shore.
It is a quick hike with a clear payoff. That also means it can be busy, especially on warm days and weekends.
Quick hike notes
- Area: Incline Village / North Lake.
- Level: Moderate.
- Route: 2.6 mi (Out and Back).
- Time: About 1 hr 15 mins.
- Gain: 498 ft.
- Views: Lake Tahoe and unique rock formations.
- Pets: Pets Allowed.
- Best for: North Lake views, playful rock formations, short scenic hikes, post-hike snacks.
What the trail feels like
The climb is steady and exposed in places. It is not long, but it does gain enough to feel like a hike.
The rock formation is the fun stop. Take the photo if you want, then make room for the next group.
Finding the trail
Access is near Incline Village and Tunnel Creek. Parking can be tight, and the start may be busy.
Stay on the main route. Side trails can wear down the slope and make the area harder to manage.
Good day for
Choose Monkey Rock for a short North Lake outing, playful rock formations, and lake views without a long trail day.
Before you head out
Go early for cooler temperatures and fewer people. Bring water, sun protection, and a leash if you bring a dog.
This is a shared area. Keep the pace friendly and pack out everything you bring in.
Make it a California 89 day
Keep the California 89 Hike Cards nearby for quick hikes that still need a little planning.
After the trail, a hat or light layer from California 89 makes the rest of a North Lake day easy.