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A moderate hike with plenty of views as you pass Donner Peak and cross Mt. Judah.


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Map Key

2.3

Miles

3.7

KM

Point to Point

8,219' 2,505 m

High

7,553' 2,302 m

Low

666' 203 m

Up

362' 110 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Views · Wildflowers

Description

The Mt. Judah Loop Trail begins along the Pacific Crest Trail ( PCT: Echo Lake to Highway 80 (Donner Summit) ) about a mile south of Donner Pass. A gradual climb eases hikers to an intersection with the Donner Peak Spur — it's a short detour and worth the scramble and extra distance to explore the vantage point.

From there, follow an an old jeep track that leads through a wet area that produces excellent wildflowers in the spring and early summer. Keep heading toward the saddle and the climb up the northeast face of Mt. Judah.

On the way up, enjoy the striking views of Mt. Rose, Truckee, Donner Lake, and Coldstream Canyon. The trail wanders along the crest of Mt. Judah, providing even better views of the surrounding peaks.

After the trail passes the crest, it descends gently to connect back with the Pacific Crest Trail just past Roller Pass.

Flora & Fauna

In the mid-summer the east face of Mt. Judah brightens with the small purple blossoms of the Rock Fringe Flower.

Contacts

Shared By:

Eric Ashley

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#8780

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#780

in California

#8,780

Overall
4 Views Last Month
2,381 Since Aug 11, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Castle Peak and Lake Angela from the flanks of Donner Peak. with permission from George Lamson
Aug 16, 2016 near Truckee, CA
Sun begins to peek over the peak climbing to Donner.
Oct 4, 2020 near Truckee, CA

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