One of my favorite results of hiking, is finding hidden view spots that many people have never seen. It leaves me with an incredible feeling of awe and appreciation for nature's reckless beauty.

In this recent hike in Lake Tahoe, we came across a little known trail used for forest service tree clearing. Yet it is not marked as a recreational trail. As we created fresh boot marks in the dirt, the trail took us up a steep ridge, which led us to a spectacular view of a bay along the East shore. We tried finding parts of this trail on other maps, with no luck. Maybe that's a good thing.

Lesson learned: Consider forest service, fire, and logging trails in your quest to gain a hiking experience without the crowds. It may even lead to secret views, secret beaches and hidden spots that few have ever found.