Leon Turnbull Photography

Last day of the recent summer storms so I thought I would head up to Lake Tahoe again for a sunset.
It seemed like it could be a very good one as I headed up over the summit. There were plenty of clouds, and the sun was breaking through, but where would the best color be tonight, if anywhere?

I hiked up to Granite Lake where I thought there would be a good view overlooking Cascade Lake and Lake Tahoe (and indeed, there was!). I realized, as I started the hike, that I did not have my headlamp with me. Doh! That could be quite serious because I would be hiking back down in the dark. However, it is only a mile up to the lake, the trail is easy to follow, it would be all downhill coming back, and I had my iPhone flashlight with me (though it is not nearly as bright as my headlamp, and the battery level was down to 50 percent). Anyway, it should be no problem, right?

When I got up to Granite Lake, I passed by some campers at the lake, who were right in my path for getting to the end of the lake. They and their dog seemed friendly enough, but I took a semi-shortcut on the way back so I would not have to pass right by them in the dark – but I could smell their smoking on the way back nonetheless, and I assure you it was not anything legal.

I climbed up on the ridge behind Granite Lake, and worked my way to a viewpoint. I had to climb a bit further up than I anticipated to get a clear view with no trees blocking the way. From this spot, I could see the two lakes, as well as Fallen Leaf Lake, and I could also see Upper Cascade Falls (but not the lower Cascade Falls). Cascade Creek was just trickling, but if it was flowing strong then the view of the upper falls would have been a very sweet one.

It was about a half hour before sunset and things were looking good as far as the clouds were concerned. But then, about 20 minutes later, a rain storm moved in from the south, blocking the clouds that were starting to color. I thought it was going to drench me as well, but the rain did not come my way; nonetheless it seemed I was going to be skumped yet again by Lake Tahoe. Craning my neck, I could see lots of good color on the north shore of the lake. Of course. At the very end, however, the sun tried to make a comeback, and the clouds started to color up again. It was not overly impressive, but it was enough to get a shot. Not too shabby.

I packed up quickly and headed back down the hill. When I got to the main trail I jogged all the way down to the car. I probably did not need to do that, but it was good exercise anyway, and I did end up having to use my iPhone flashlight once it got too dark. I arrived back at the car 30 minutes past sunset. All was good.