Somerset, California

Pyramid Peak is the tallest peak in the Crystal Range and the Desolation Wilderness, just west of Lake Tahoe. On a clear day it can be seen from the Bay Area over 150 miles away. Named for its distinct shape, Pyramid a massive heap of glaciated granite slabs and talus, and the Rocky Canyon route ...

The trailhead to begin this hike is located at: 38.8117 N, 120.1237 W. From Hwy 50 just south of Lake Tahoe, take Hwy 50 southwest for almost 11 miles, where you'll turn into the parking lot after crossing Pyramid Creek. There is a $5 day-use fee to park in the trailhead parking lot. The hike i...

Great views are waiting for you at the top of Horsetail Falls. Pyramid Creek flows down the steep, glacier carved granite faces of Desolation Wilderness to create this awesome waterfall that is estimated to be about 800 feet tall. You will follow Pyramid Creek up the granite rocks to the top of t...

Starting at the lower lot it's less than a mile to access the trail. The hike starts off in shade through a lot of red fir forest and continues at a steady upward route. Approximately 45 mins into the hike you'll come across a sign that says you are entering desolation wilderness. The forest will...

If you're just getting into outdoor climbing, it can be pretty daunting. There are so many amazing routes and so much to be worried about. Plus, you need a partner you trust to put the work in with you. To start, read a book or two, and if you can, work with a guide once or twice to make sure you...

Mount Price (9,975') is the second highest summit in the Desolation Wilderness, standing just eight feet lower than Pyramid Peak to the south. In between these two peaks stands Mount Agassiz (9,967'), whose overhanging summit resembles a granite wave poised to crash down into the Desolation Vall...

This is an awesome out-and-back hike for the weekend warrior. The trail begins at the western-most point of Caples Lake, and takes you to Emigrant Lake. The first 2/3 of the trail is rather flat and appropriate for all skill levels. The last mile up to the lake schleps up the hill, and has some ...

Many thanks to the Climbing Resource Advocates for Greater Sacramento (CRAGS) and the Access Fund for their hard work in re-opening this location to make it climbing-legal. Where to Park:Put in "Parking lot for the Quarry Trail, California 193, Auburn, CA 95603"This is the designated parking lot ...

Parking in the Auburn State Recreation Area parking lot has a cost of $10.00.  Free parking is allowed on the right side of the road located on the right after driving over the bridge.  From here the Quarry Trail parking lot and Trail head are a short walking distance ahead on the left side of th...

Located only roughly 40 minutes from Sacramento. This trail will allow you to view and walk under the 5th largest bridge in the US as well as enjoy the waterfall spectacle of a top releasing Dam. Once reaching Old Foresthill Road from the town of Auburn, drive over the smaller bridge spanning the...

Training Hill is a 4.5 mile loop trail that features beautiful meadows and wildflowers, with limited views to Folsom Lake and the Auburn canyon.  The trail to Training Hill branches off from the Calcutta Falls trail right before the first cement bridge over the American River.  Training Hill is r...

The South Grove Trail of Calaveras Big Trees State Park sees far less traffic than the North Grove due to its increased mileage and distance from the park entrance. The trail starts at the South Grove Trail head which is located nine miles east of the entrance on the main park road. The trailhead...

Bear Valley is nestled in the high Sierra between Yosemite and Lake Tahoe.  It is a popular destination for families and nature lovers.  It boasts 1,900 vertical feet over 1680 acres for skiing and snowboarding. Winter is a popular time at Bear Valley.  Most visitors come to ski or snowboard, but...

Bear Valley is a family friendly destination for snowshoeing and snow play.  There are numerous trails to explore while snowshoeing.  Don't be afraid to take a break and start a snowball fight!  There are shops located near the resort to rent snowshoes and other snow play accessories. There are s...

The Sisters offer a great day hike with fun scrambling and beautiful views of the Northern Sierra, Lake Tahoe, the Mokelumnee Wilderness, and the Carson River Canyon.The trail to The Sisters begins at Woods Lake (38.6855° N, 120.0095° W), at the end of Woods Lake Road off Highway 88, 1.5 miles we...

This hike begins near the Woods Lake campground. Start off by hiking towards Winnemucca Lake. You will begin your journey going through the forest beside a crystal-clear stream. Soon the trail opens up to become more open, full of all colours of wild flowers. You follow this breathtaking trail up...