Emerald Bay 
An early morning scenic drive along Tahoe's South Shore will bring you to the stunning vistas over Emerald Bay.
An early morning scenic drive along Tahoe's South Shore will bring you to the stunning vistas over Emerald Bay. Photo: Wayde Carroll

I-80, Alta Exit:

Euchre Bar Trail is a fairly quick drive into the trailhead and a rapid drop into the canyon bottom. Climbing out takes a bit longer. Still this is one of the best access points into the Wild River.

The trail is comparatively short and there is a bridge at the bottom that affords crossing the river with dry feet for a change. There’s even access via the Doer Ranch Road (closed to motor vehicles) back up the other side for a rim to rim experience.

But the ultimate way out is to raft or kayak through spectacular Giant Gap. But remember, first, you have to drag a boat down the 1.5 miles of trail. Few do this run. Those that do, no one forgets the adventure.

Trails