Tahoe Family Adventure
Explore the "quiet side" of Tahoe as we hike the hidden trails of the Tahoe National Forest on this getaway designed specifically for families with children ages 8 and up. We’ll carry only daypacks as we hike through open granite basins dotted with alpine lakes and cascading mountain streams: the perfect place for a cool mountain dip! At night we'll relax at our huge private REI campsite located on the wild and scenic South Yuba River. Our secluded camp is completely surrounded by National Forest land with a private swimming hole, handmade fir and cedar camp furniture, private portable toilets, and expansive views of the granite-tipped Sierra. Shorter hike options will be available each day for those who want to spend more time in camp. Our campsite is supplied with fresh Sierra Nevada well water, so there is no need to pack in water.
Tahoe Family Adventure Itinerary:
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Day 1
Your trip begins today in Eagle Lakes, California. Arrive at the REI Adventures Eagle Lakes campsite anytime between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. this evening. Our camp host will be waiting to greet you and show you to your tent. A cozy campfire under the bright Sierra stars will welcome you and your fellow hikers to the mountains. Dinner is on your own tonight – there are no services at Eagle Lakes, so plan on stopping at or before Colfax if coming from Sacramento or in Truckee if coming from Reno.
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Day 2
Meet your guides and other group members for a hearty camp breakfast at 7:30 a.m. After an orientation and gear check we’ll hike directly from camp, wading across the Yuba River to begin our journey. Our route follows the Yuba River downstream to an impressive waterfall surrounded by smooth, flat granite: the ideal spot to swim, relax, and explore. There’s even a rope swing! Hiking distance: 3 miles, elevation gain 100’. All meals provided.
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Day 3
Our hike this morning begins on a seldom-used trail that takes us to the open granite country of the Fordyce Creek Basin where we’ll follow the cascading waters of Fordyce Creek to a series of waterfalls and deep pools, stopping to identify the many wildflowers along the way. There’s plenty of time for a swim before returning for a BBQ dinner and s’mores at our private camp. Hiking distance: 5 miles, elevation gain 400’. All meals provided.
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Day 4
Today we have time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of our riverside camp. You can find a quiet spot to sit and relax with a book and an inspiring view of the solid granite dome of Old Man Mountain, or you can choose to explore a new section of the Yuba River on an optional guided hike. Depart Eagle Lakes campsite for home by 4:00 p.m. Hiking distance: 0 to 2 miles, elevation gain: 0 to 100’. Breakfast and lunch provided.
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including trip members’ abilities, weather and terrain conditions. This trip is operated rain or shine.
Contact REI Adventures prior to purchasing your airline tickets to confirm the trip has the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Three nights tent camping at REI Adventures Eagle Lakes campsite; professional guiding; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; campsite and permit fees; on-trip van transportation from campsite to/from trailheads. Fresh well water is available in camp. Toilet facilities consist of a private PortaPotty used only by our group. Bathing is accomplished with a dip in the nearby Yuba River (biodegradable soap only).
Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point; park entrance fees where required; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
There is no reliable transfer service from any airport to our meeting place. Anticipate renting a car if flying in for this weekend getaway.
This trip is rated Easy Active (2) as we plan to hike for at least few hours each day. If the group is up for more activity, longer hiking options will be provided, and any hike or activity can be opted out of if you feel like relaxing in camp instead. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least three months prior to your departure. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level.
Daytime temperatures usually range between 60-80°F, with evening temperatures dropping to the 40s and 50s. Early- or late-season trips will experience a wider range of temperatures. Thunderstorms are a possibility at any time in the mountains making adequate raingear a necessity.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and detailed pre-trip information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Tahoe Family Adventure
Weather
Gear Checklist
- Tents (3 season, 2 person)
- Camp Cooking gear
- Eating utensils, plates, cups
- Water filter
- Trip leader first aid kit
- Sleeping bag (20o-25o)
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag liner (optional, but comfortable and versatile)
- Daypack: approx. 1,500 - 2,000 cu”
- Pack cover – waterproof
- Rain jacket and pants, lightweight waterproof and breathable
- Midweight fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Mid- or Lightweight thermal top and bottom, synthetic or wool
- Hiking pants, quick-drying, lightweight (zip-off legs are great)
- Hiking shorts, quick-drying, lightweight
- T-shirts, synthetic
- Underwear
- Hiking socks, 3 pairs
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat with brim
- Wool or fleece hat
- Bandana
- Lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- Hiking boots: sturdy, stiff-soled, well broken-in
- Two 1-quart water bottles or hydration system equivalent
- Headlamp with spare batteries and bulb
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Sunblock and lip balm
- Personal medications
- Insect repellent (small)
- Toiletry kit: roll of toilet paper, toothbrush & trial-size paste, pack towel (think light!)
- Personal first-aid kit, small and light
- Trekking poles
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Ear plugs
- Camera


