PCT-04 Squaw/Granite Chief Trail to Tinker Knob
DESCRIPTION:
No bikes.
This trail winds almost gently though awesome country beyond the bright lights of Squaw -- and in another world. The Pacific Crest Trail north all the way to I-80 is especially rewarding with views down the fledgling North Fork American canyon and on to the Coastal Range to the west and the Truckee River to the east.
Getting to the top where you hook up with the Pacific Crest Trail is the challenge. Most use the Granite Chief Trail but an easy alternative is to ride up the Squaw Valley Gondolla, hike up to Emigrant Pass then turn left (north) to the Granite Chief Trail intersection with the PCT.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8160’-7540’-8760’ |
Continue north on the Pacific Crest Trail past Tinkers Knob to Donner Pass and Old Highway 40 Trailhead (see Pacific Crest Trail south to Tinkers Knob for a description of that end of the trek). These two segments between Squaw Valley and Old Highway 40 can be done in one day and often are. Roughly, the through hike is 14 miles, but once you reach the top of the Sierra Crest, it’s smooth sailing. In fact, it’s one of the best hikes around. Many hikers prefer to travel in the opposite direction (north to south) from Donner Pass and arrange transportation at Squaw. Either way, make sure you’re in shape, bring a big lunch, a camera, and arrange transportation at the other end. In fact there are several shuttle opportunities lying to the north: Donner Pass as discussed above, Coldstream Valley and Donner Lake, Pole Creek and the Sierra Club’s New Bradley Hut, or the Painted Rock Trail hassle, with its conflicts with parking and access through private property, into the headwaters of the North Fork American River. |
DIRECTIONS:
To PCT-04 Squaw/Granite Chief Trail to Tinker Knob
Topographic maps: Tahoe City, Granite Chief.
Climb or cruise to the Sierra Crest by using either the Granite Chief Trail or by riding the gondola. At the crest turn right (north) on the Pacific Crest Trail. To reach the trailhead or gondola at Squaw Valley, follow Highway 89 south 8.5 miles from Truckee or 5 miles north from Tahoe City to the stoplight and Squaw Valley Road (A). Turn west and drive 2.2 miles to Squaw Valley Fire Station (see ski symbols on map for general area). Use ski area parking, not those parking slots adjacent to the fire station. The trail begins to the right (east) side of the fire station. Gondola parking is available in the main parking area near the base of the lift station.
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
