SUNRISE @ MAGGIE'S PEAK
Sunday, September 20, 2026 | 3:00 AM
Yup! You read that right. 3AM.
For this Unplugged Adventure, we're trading the sunset for an early wake-up and heading up Maggie's Peak in the dark to catch sunrise over Lake Tahoe.
We'll begin from the Bayview Trailhead and climb together by headlamp. According to AllTrails, Granite Lake and Maggie's Peaks is a 4.1-mile out-and-back, rated Hard, with approximately 1,778 feet of elevation gain. The climb is steep, especially early in the route.
Sunrise is approximately 6:47 AM.
We're giving ourselves plenty of time. Depending on pace, we're estimating roughly 1.5–2.5 hours to reach the summit area. This is not a race and summiting isn't required to have the experience. There are views throughout the climb, so if the summit isn't in the cards that morning, find a comfortable spot, settle in, and watch the sun come up over Tahoe from wherever you are.
We'll have a lead, mid, and anchor with the group so nobody gets left behind.
WHAT TO BRING
Headlamp or flashlight — required. We will be hiking almost entirely in darkness on the way up.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, proper hiking shoes, warm layers and anything you'd like to make yourself comfortable while we wait for sunrise.
A sleeping bag, blanket, hammock or other lightweight warm gear is encouraged. Temperatures before sunrise at elevation can feel much colder once you stop moving.
We'll bring a Jetboil along with instant coffee and hot chocolate. Bring your own mug if you'd like some.
PARKING
We'll meet near the Bayview Trailhead / Inspiration Point area along Highway 89.
Because we're arriving so early, we'll have someone stationed near the meetup area to help direct everyone. Legal roadside parking along Highway 89 will be our preferred option where available so we can avoid unnecessarily filling the Bayview Trailhead and Inspiration Point parking areas.
Please arrive early enough to park safely, gear up and be ready to begin hiking at 3:00 AM.
THE GOAL
Make the summit if you can.
But the real goal is simpler: get outside, challenge yourself, find your spot overlooking Tahoe and be there when the first light hits.
Questions are always welcome. We also encourage everyone to research the trail beforehand so you know what to expect, come prepared, and get the most out of the experience.