Big Hill
Peak · 6,145 ft · Lake Tahoe corridor
Big Hill is a 6145-foot peak in the Lake Tahoe corridor's Sierra Nevada. Moderate elevation and low base popularity make it a quieter alternative to busier summit approaches in the region.
Big Hill sits exposed to lake-driven wind funneling from the east; afternoon gusts are routine. Morning windows are calmer and narrower than sheltered valleys nearby. Avalanche terrain demands snowpack awareness in winter and early spring.
The 30-day average wind of 7 mph masks afternoon swings to 18 mph; the 30-day average temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit reflects typical spring conditions at this elevation. Crowding averages 2 out of 10, holding steady through the rolling 30-day window. Watch for wind pick-up by noon and lingering snow patches into late spring.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About Big Hill
Big Hill sits at 6145 feet in the high Sierra, east of the main Lake Tahoe basin. Access is via Highway 50 from the west or Highway 395 from the south; the peak lies in avalanche terrain managed by the Sacramento Avalanche Center. Base popularity is low (0.2 out of 10), meaning few visitors compete for parking or trail space. The location is best approached in stable weather windows; winter and early-spring travel requires current avalanche bulletin review and familiarity with corniced ridges.
Spring conditions dominate the rolling 30-day stats: average temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit and average wind of 7 mph, though peak gusts reach 18 mph by mid-afternoon. The 30-day high NoGo score of 65 reflects afternoon deterioration; early morning departures before 9 am typically see calmer conditions than midday push-offs. Summer brings warmer, slightly windier patterns; fall transitions show dropping temperatures. Winter snowpack can destabilize quickly; know the snowline and current avalanche forecast before heading above tree-line.
Big Hill works best for experienced winter mountaineers, spring snow climbers, and hikers seeking solitude at elevation without the crowds of better-known Tahoe summits. Plan for early starts; afternoon wind and variable visibility are the norm. Bring extra layers for exposed ridges; temperature swings from 40-degree averages to near-freezing at altitude are common. Parking is minimal; weekday visits avoid weekend congestion on nearby Highway 50.
Big Hill's low base popularity (0.2 out of 10) contrasts sharply with Echo Summit and other busy Tahoe corridor peaks. The avalanche terrain and exposed approach favor small parties with winter skills over casual foot traffic. Nearby Highway 89 access and Emerald Bay alternatives offer lower-elevation views if conditions or snow rule out summit attempts.