#ward peak

[pcttrailsidereader]

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.

[pcttrailsidereader]

Over the years, we have posted a number of Weathercarrot’s images from the PCT. These three photos were taken on the trail just south of Donner Summit, which, from my perspective, includes some of the most spectacular crest walking along the entire PCT.  The views in both directions were often dramatic with Lake Tahoe to the east and layers of mountains to the west. Tinker Knob, Granite Chief (the namesake for the wilderness), and Ward Peak . . . wonderful.