Another underappreciated stretch of the PCT in our series on such underappreciated sections of the trail . . . Barker Pass north to the Benson Hut and on to I-80. Many NOBO hikers coming out of the High Sierra and Desolation Wilderness have become somewhat numb to stunning beauty and have started thinking about making miles. It is too bad because these 30 miles have lots to offer. It includes some spectacular crest walking through Granite Chief Wilderness with views out over Lake Tahoe to the east and the layers of peaks to the west. Even the mileage between Donner Pass on Hwy 40 and I-80 offers some dramatic views out over Donner Lake from granite outcroppings (especially if you are willing to make a short detour off the PCT).
Rees Hughes
Photo left: the trail near Roller Pass. Photo right: see Lake Tahoe in the distance. Photo below: more Lake Tahoe views.
