LITTLE BALD MOUNTAIN LOOP

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

DIFFICULTY:   Moderate

ELEVATION GAIN: Trailhead about 6400 ft.; elevation gain about 900 ft

HIKE DISTANCE:  5.5 miles

GENERAL LOCATION: Trailhead at Robinson Flat Campground, at the end of Foresthill Road.  As the crow flies this is about 20 miles due west of Tahoe City.

DESCRIPTION:  Loop to Duncan Peak Lookout ranger station and the top of Little Bald Mountain. Hike boasts amazing 360-degree views of distant mountain ranges and deep valleys.  A huge pay-off for a relatively short hike!  We will do the hike in reverse from the usual so most of the uphill will be at the beginning when its cooler with a shorter, downhill portion through forests on the way back.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:  Driving time about 60 miles, 1½ hours each way on a narrow, winding, very scenic road after the town of Foresthill.  Based on the length of the drive, a per-person monetary contribution of $9 for gas would be appreciated, to be given to driver at beginning of drive.  Detailed driving directions are below.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:   Vern Luke/Sweep TBA

SPECIAL NOTES:

FACILITIES AVAILABLE:  Pit toilets at trailhead
PREPARATION FOR HIKE:  Refer to #8 and #9 in the ‘Hike Information and Guidelines’ available on the website.  Hiking boots and poles are advised for the rocky top of Little Bald Mountain—but most of trail is fairly soft surface with only scattered rocky areas.  Bring lunch and water.  Trail traverses both shady forest and open ridge; wear sunscreen and bring insect repellant for possible gnats. Rain jacket is always advisable in the mountains.

RISKS:  Some downed trees and possibly one detour.
QUESTIONS:  Vern Luke, 253-3711

MEETING TIME:  8:15 AM Orchard Creek Lot.  Leaving time: 8:30 AM. 

Driving Directions:   Take your favorite route to I-80 East.  Travel just past Auburn to Foresthill Road.  Foresthill Road toward Foresthill to the end (approx 50 miles).  Follow signs to day use area and park on the left across from pit toilets.