Castle Peak, Tahoe National Forest CA

• 5-star hike
• 5 mile out-and-back
• Moderate & Hard | Gain 1,670 ft | Peak 9,103 ft
• Donner Summit, CA | Lake Tahoe
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The image shows a snowy mountain landscape with a dense forest of snow-covered evergreen trees in the foreground. The mountain in the background is also covered in snow, with rocky outcrops visible through the snow. The sky above is partly cloudy, with some areas of blue sky peeking through.

The image shows a snowy mountain landscape with a dense forest of snow-covered evergreen trees in the foreground. The mountain in the background is also covered in snow, with rocky outcrops visible through the snow. The sky above is partly cloudy, with some areas of blue sky peeking through.

Providing the weather is kind, this is a great choice for a hike during winter months and possibly a great way to continue your alpine workouts after the ski resorts close for the season.

Only a stone's throw from the interstate 80 near Donner Summit, Castle Peak offers a snowshoe hike as challenging as many backcountry trails. Park up at the Castle Peak/Boreal ski resort exit, and strap on the snowshoes at the trailhead located on the north side of the freeway. Sno-park permit required during winter & spring.

The noise of the freeway quickly disappears as you head up the gently sloping uphill trail, which gradually warms up muscles that you'll need for the steeper grades later on. The well defined trail leads you up on to the Andesite ridgeline, and then it's on to the final ascent which is the reason we label this trail 'hard'.

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⬤ 5★ Castle Peak Trail 5.4 mi out & back, moderate & hard, gain 1,670 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

Perhaps the final hike to the summit is not actually at a 45-degree angle, but it sure feels like it. Climbing snow and ice in snowshoes at this angle of elevation can be pretty difficult. During one of our frequent breaks, we watched enviously as another hiker demonstrated how much easier the ascent is with an ice-ax in hand. At no time however did the final hike feel anything other than safe.

Views at the top are awesome, but be careful to keep an eye out for your safety or you might not make it there. In winter conditions the weather can change quickly so be sure to dress appropriately, use snowshoes, be familiar with the risks associated with cornices and the other risks of hiking in snow.

The image shows a snowy landscape with a person walking through deep snow. The scene is dominated by tall, snow-covered evergreen trees, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. The sky is overcast, adding to the cold and serene ambiance. The person is following a path that has been made through the snow, which curves slightly as it leads into the forest.

The image shows a snowy landscape with a person walking through deep snow. The scene is dominated by tall, snow-covered evergreen trees, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. The sky is overcast, adding to the cold and serene ambiance. The person is following a path that has been made through the snow, which curves slightly as it leads into the forest.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Castle Peak
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