WST-04, Lyons Ridge to Robinsons Flat Campground
DESCRIPTION:
Western States Trail (WST) racers are heading (mostly) downhill from Lyons Ridge, and if you can arrange transportation (but it’s a long, rough shuttle), that’s the best way to travel this sterling trail. The shorter version from Forest Service #96 Road could be done in a long day ("difficult" rating).
The Western States Trail traverses Star Ridge and Duncan Canyon, burned in 2001 by the Star Fire. Snags will create safety hazards until they have fallen or been felled along the trail. The segment through the burn will most likely be re-routed by 2005 and are likely closed for a time. Check beforehand (530-367-2224).
Remember, fires are the Sierra Nevada being true to its ancestral self.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | 6720’-5460’-7340’-7080’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To WST-04, Lyons Ridge to Robinsons Flat Campground
Topographic Maps: Duncan Peak, Royal Gorge, Granite Chief.
From the west -- Park at Robinsons Flat Campground (I) and follow Western States Trail signs southeast (left).
From the east -- From the Campground (I), continue east up the dirt Forest Hill Divide Road until the Soda Springs Road connects from the left (north) (J). Follow it down into North Fork American River basin. A mile before (west) of the river and The Cedars area (see Donner Summit Map), turn right (south) up signed French Meadows Road #51. Follow uphill to the drainage divide at Lyons Ridge (see Granite Chief Map) where the Western States Trail crosses this road.
Shorter option: Travel up the dirt Forest Hill Divide Road as before but turn right at the Soda Springs junction (J). Follow the Forest Service # 96 road east to the signed Western States Trail crossing. Park and follow the trail down Star Ridge to the southwest. This cuts the trail distance by about one-half.
All roads after Robinsons Flat are rough and high clearance vehicles are recommended. Definitely no trailers/RVs.
See Donner Summit Area, Painted Rocks Trail, for directions from I-80 (north).
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Good)
Robinsons Flat is situated 36 miles into the 100 mile long events trail. Heading west takes you into canyon country with several steep crossings. Heading east takes you toward Granite Chief Wilderness and Squaw Valley.
With the campground having been newly renovated to include equestrian sites plus the location at mid-point along the WST, this makes the segments to the east and west outstanding equestrian riding opportunities.
Read the description for the trail to get updates on trail closures due to the Star Fire.
Hiking - Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
The upper end above Road 96 is one of the best. From 96 down to Robinson Flat just so-so.
Historic Sites (Rating: Good)
Robinsons Flat
