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Awesome hike along the PCT that winds through lesser-traveled wilderness.


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Map Key

29.0

Miles

46.6

KM

Point to Point

9,121' 2,780 m

High

7,769' 2,368 m

Low

4,310' 1,314 m

Up

4,446' 1,355 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

31%

Max Grade (17°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Lake · Views · Wildflowers

No permits required, no fee parking at Ebbetts Pass, $5 parking at Carson Pass.

Overview

Epic and not crowded section of the PCT worth setting up a shuttle for.

Need to Know

No bathrooms at Ebbetts Pass.

Carson Pass is $5 to park and has water for sale and a bathroom.

Plenty of water to filter along the route.

Last 7ish miles are fully exposed and pretty exhausting if it is sunny!

Description

The trail begins with a pretty epic 8 miles winding through all the craggy/volcanic landscapes before you pop out and are able to see the entire rest of the hike in front of you (looking north to Round Top and Elephant's Back). Save some gas for the last 7 miles, because they are difficult and fully exposed.

Flora & Fauna

INCREDIBLE wildflowers.

Contacts

Shared By:

Chris Leonetti

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 3 votes

#1178

Overall
  5.0 from 3 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#186

in California

#1,178

Overall
3 Views Last Month
1,626 Since Aug 26, 2019
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Photos

Forestdale Creek drainage
Jan 24, 2022 near South L…, CA
View from Forestdale Divide towards Red Lake.
Jan 24, 2022 near South L…, CA
View from just below Elephant's Back towards the east.
Jan 24, 2022 near South L…, CA
Smoke is in the air, but the view from PCT is stunning nonetheless.
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA
Lower Kinney Lake and the (smoke filled) Carson River Valley.
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA
The last snow on the boundary between Eldorado and Toiyabe National Forest.
Jan 24, 2022 near South L…, CA

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