If you’re chasing the best fall colors around Lake Tahoe, this hidden grove is hard to beat — easily in my top three. Golden aspens light up the meadow here, framed by the Sierra peaks. Just know: getting here is half the adventure.

Getting There:

From Truckee, head south on Highway 267 toward Lake Tahoe.

Turn left onto Martis Peak Road. The first mile is the roughest stretch, with deep potholes — a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended.

After a couple of miles, Martis Peak Road veers left. Instead, turn right onto Griff Creek Road (unpaved).

Follow Griff Creek Road for several miles until it dead-ends at the aspen field.

The drive is bumpy, the road is rugged, and you’ll likely question if you’re in the right place — but when you reach the glow of fall color, you’ll know it was worth every turn.