As it turns out, flying with backpacking gear is surprisingly easy.

Most people go during this time frame, but we booked our trip the first week of October.

For reliable weather and fewer hikers, Id recommend booking your trip in September.

Person looking out over Lake Tahoe

Credit:Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure

They both brought one down jacket and regular hiking leggings and were fine.

What to Know

Contrary to its name, Desolation Wilderness is far from desolate.

There are lots of bears in this area, so a bear canister is a must.

Wide aerial like view of Lake Tahoe

Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure

In the Desolation Wilderness, campfires are not allowed.

That translated to early nights for us, since it was too cold to hang around outside.

We cooked our dinner and promptly zipped into our sleeping bags and tent.

The towering pines of lake Tahoe

Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure

We broughta trowel to dig catholesand packed Ziplock bags to pack out our toilet paper.

And finally, dont expect cell service.

Come Along on T+Ls Top U.S. Adventures

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Two people hiking on a trail in the wilderness around Lake Tahoe

Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure

Lake Tahoe Picnic

Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure

Hiking and camping in the wilderness area around Lake Tahoe

Eve Carrick/Travel + Leisure