The weather in Tahoe has been beautiful this weekend and perfect for enjoying outdoor activity. I had the opportunity to run the Sagehen Creek trail this afternoon…it’s a great family fun hike for fall. Sagehen Creek hike located just outside of Truckee off of HWY 89 heading north toward Sierraville and it takes you along the Sagehen Creek for about 2.5 miles where you reach the shores of Stampede Reservoir.
It is a great hike all summer long, but to experience the peak of its beauty, the best times are early summer or in the fall. In the early summer, you will see many wild flower varieties and, most notably, the Camas Lilies that fill the meadow just off the shore of Stampede reservoir. If you hit it at the right time, there are so many of these blue flowers that it has been mistaken for another body of water out in the meadow. In the fall, the aspen trees are shining yellow and the fall colors of orange, brown and gold surround you, but one of the best parts is all the way at the end where you see the creek flow into Stampede Reservoir. Take a closer look and if you hit it right, you will find the Kokanee Salmon making their way upstream to spawn. Definitely something to keep in mind for next fall. FInally, it is not uncommon to see bear on the trail like I did just this afternoon.
Directions to Trailhead:
On Highway 89, 6.8 miles north of Truckee. There is a dirt parking area on the right side (east) just past the bridge over Sagehen Creek. There are no facilities at the trailhead and the trail is not marked, but it is clearly visible on the northeast side of Sagehen Creek.
