I have seen pictures of this waterfall at other times, and it was flowing a lot more than it was when I was there, thanks to the California drought. There was a clear path that was used for this, and it was relatively easy to scramble down. I took a bunch of pictures at the overlook then walked down to the base of the falls for more photos. There is an overlook point that you can sit at and watch the water flow down, or if you are adventurous, then you can scramble down the small rocks to the water below. It cascades down about 80 feet over multiple rocks and outcroppings till it flows into the river below. Glen Alpine Falls is a large and wide waterfall. I was able to get parking in this area as it was not too busy and walked the 2 minute walk to the falls.

From here, you will see a sign that points you towards the falls, and it is probably about a quarter-mile up the hill till you see small dirt parking areas for the waterfall. The road continues to wind around until you reach the back of the lake and a small fire station. This must be a popular spot in Tahoe to live as these houses were crazy. When you get to the lake, you will be driving along it and will see massive mansions on both sides of you. From here it is another 2 miles or so to the lake. The road will go about a mile before it passes a campground. That being said, when you make it to the lake, you will be ok with pulling over as the views are incredibly beautiful. The road is only 1.5 lanes max, so when anyone is coming from the other way, you will need to pull out. As soon as you turn onto it though, be prepared for slow going. The road to Fallen Leaf Lake is signed and is right off Highway 89, south of Emerald Bay.

No real trail to the falls it is just right where you park.It takes about 20 minutes to get there from the main highway One lane road, so you have to pull over for people often.This waterfall is a beautiful spot to visit in Tahoe, and since there is no hiking required, it is an excellent spot for families. So on the way back to the hotel from kayaking to Fannette Island, I decided to drive up and see the lake and Glen Alpine Falls, which is on the south end. When researching things to do in South Lake Tahoe, I kept coming across the recommendation to visit Fallen Leaf Lake.

Fallen leaf lake waterfall