Trail gear lists

Tahoe Rim Trail: what to bring

Tahoe Rim Trail Association / Lake Tahoe Basin NF, California · 265 km round trip · Usually 14 days · Best Jul–Sep

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Black bear country · Permit or reservation needed · Little water on the trail · High altitude

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Calories and food for this trip

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This park doesn't publish the climb: add it for a better estimate.

An estimate from the US Army's Load Carriage Decision Aid (Looney et al., 2022), on trail, with half the walking up and half down this trail's average grade, plus your resting burn for the rest of the day. Cold, snow, a fast pace or a heavier pack mean more.

Distance from Tahoe Rim Trail Association / Lake Tahoe Basin NF's page (park page), checked October 25, 2026. Trails change: check the park's page and conditions before you go. The Gear Fox isn't affiliated with the park.

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Quick answers

What should I bring for Tahoe Rim Trail?

The 10 essentials (navigation, headlamp + spare batteries, sun protection, first-aid kit (with blister care), knife or multi-tool + repair tape, fire, emergency shelter, extra food (a day's worth more than you plan), extra water + a way to treat it, extra layers), plus for this trail: hiking boots, wool hiking socks (+ a dry pair), overnight pack (35 l+), trekking poles, insulated jacket (down or synthetic), warm hat + gloves, extra water capacity (3 l+), bear spray, bear hang kit or food storage (use the food lockers where provided), start early; turn around by noon if storms build, satellite messenger (inreach or similar), tent or shelter, sleeping bag + pad rated for the season, stove, fuel, pot, permit or reservation.

Do I need a permit for Tahoe Rim Trail?

Usually, yes: Tahoe Rim Trail Association / Lake Tahoe Basin NF manages permits or reservations for this area (dates, quotas or parking). Check its page for your dates before you go.

Are there bears on Tahoe Rim Trail?

Yes, black bears. Carry bear spray and store food away from your tent overnight.

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