Jun 20 2007
Hiking Freel Peak
Freel Peak is the highest peak in the Lake Tahoe Region at 10,881 feet. The two most popular routes to the top are through Armstrong Pass. The shorter of the two routes involves driving on USFS road 051 off of Highway 89 to the base of Armstrong Pass. It is only 1 mile to Armstrong Pass and the junction of the TRT - Tahoe Rim Trail.
We decided to head up Fountain Place Road and take Armstrong Pass Trail, a 3 mile hike to the TRT. Armstrong Pass Trail is an enjoyable, mostly shaded trail following a creek at a reasonable grade. From Armstrong Pass, the Rim Trail skirts around the mountain side into a desert like landscape. After 3 miles on the Rim Trail we reached the junction of the TRT and trail to Freel Peak. This is the first view of Lake Tahoe. 
The last mile is the most difficult as it is step, sandy and there is little shade. The altitude can get to you if you drive up from the valley and attempt the hike the same day. But, the view is worth it. From the peak you can see all of Lake Tahoe, Mount Tallac, Hope Valley, Carson Valley and parts of Desolation Wilderness.
The hike was 14 miles and took about 7 hours. This included time for breaks and pictures. We spent about a half hour on top enjoying the view. It was pretty windy on top, but not cold. We only saw 3 other people the entire day, much fewer than on Mount Tallac. Tips for hikers. Foot care tips for hikers.