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In winter, bring snowshoes or cross country skis to climb to stunning views at the top of the Sierras.


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Map Key

6.8

Miles

11.0

KM

90%

Runnable

9,570' 2,917 m

High

8,554' 2,607 m

Low

1,112' 339 m

Up

1,111' 339 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (4°)

41%

Max Grade (22°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Views

Overview

If you want to see the top of the world, or at least the Sierra Nevada range, this is the run. Several lakes and several peaks can be accessed from the trailhead.

Need to Know

Parking requires a Sno-Park pass during the winter. The lot is small, so arrive early.

Description

This year-round run begins easily, on a fairly level trail which climbs at various places. Some sections of the narrow trail wind under scattered stands of pine before opening to broad vistas of treeline meadows or ridge-top sky views. Winnemucca Lake offers many lunch sites with comfortable boulder seating.

From there runners can opt to climb to Elephant's Back or to Round Top Lake on the Elephant's Back Route Spur. This short out-and-back add-on will treat you to more impressive views. Once you are done enjoying the scenery, simply retrace your steps and head back to the way you came.

Contacts

Shared By:

Donna 2022

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 4 votes

#1

in Carson Pass

#4600

Overall
  3.8 from 4 votes
5 Star
0%
4 Star
75%
3 Star
25%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Carson Pass

#629

in California

#4,600

Overall
3 Views Last Month
1,932 Since Apr 16, 2018
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
0%
33%
33%
33%
0%

Photos

Round Top
Jan 23, 2022 near South L…, CA
Winnemucca Lake
Jan 23, 2022 near South L…, CA
Destination Round Top etched and Lake Winnecucca covered by April's snow.
Apr 16, 2018 near South L…, CA
The midmorning sun lights up the branches of an old snag, one of a few along this trail.
Apr 16, 2018 near South L…, CA
Late April snow nearly buried the sign at the beginning of the trail.
Apr 16, 2018 near South L…, CA
Snags and sun along the snowline heading up Elephants Back
Apr 16, 2018 near South L…, CA

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