Are dogs allowed on Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail?

No, Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail?

Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail is rated expert. It is 13.9 miles long with 3,602 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail

ExpertPoint to Point

California

Donner Pass to Squaw Valley via the Pacific Crest Trail

Norden, California

13.9 mi

Distance

3,602 ft

Elev. Gain

Est. Time

Point to Point

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

A hike along the crest of the Sierra Nevada is a classic. You have to wait until the summer to allow the snow to melt because of the high elevation. There are a few sidetracks along the way. There is no real trail to the peak. The same thing happened with ticker's knob. The west side of the crest is the location of the American River. The Granite Chief Trail goes up to the crest.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,904 ft

Max:2,663 ft

1,098 ft

1,349 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Point to Point
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context