Trailhead is just a few dozen steps down from the restaurant and gift shop at the tram. A large sign spells out the details of the trail and a brochure available at the restaurant gives additional details. True, locals will already know about staying on trails, about footwear, drinking water and the like. But they may not be aware of some of the nature tips explained in the brochure. The hike starts off almost at once with some steep sections.
Footing is almost always thick, fine dirt.
There are plenty of big rocks to climb over but little in the way of smaller, ankle-turning rocks on the actual trail. Along the trail are vertical signs pointing out views or natural growth. These are keyed to the brochure. But the last leg, topping at 8,713 feet, is worth it without a doubt. The views of the lake, of Tahoe Keys, of the West shore and Homewood Ski Resort are a great panorama rivaling anything in the Sierra Nevada.