PCT to Castle Pass 

Thursday, July 10, 2014

DIFFICULTY:  Moderate. There is a significant elevation gain but the hike is relatively short and mostly shaded, except at the upper end.

ELEVATION GAIN: Starting elev 7,050 feet. Highest elev about 8,000 feet.

HIKE DISTANCE: 6 miles total, up and back down, a loop hike.

DESCRIPTION: Described by a backpacker as one of the High Sierra’s best “napping passes” Castle Pass is a moderate loop hike from the Donner Summit PCT Trailhead, near Boreal Ski Area. The trail goes through a tunnel under Interstate 80 and continues around the westbound rest area up to Castle Pass. Return to the trailhead by walking down the dirt road on the west side of Castle Creek and under the underpass to Boreal.

LUNCH: Early lunch or snack at Castle Pass.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:  Approximately 75 minute drive and 60 miles. Return time to Lincoln mid afternoon. A donation of $9 is suggested for riders. Copies of these directions will be handed out to all drivers.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:  Leader Dan Cortinovis. Sweep Wilma Cortinovis

FACILITIES AVAILABLE:  Two pit toilets at PCT Trailhead. Possible short side trip to westbound rest area.

PREPARATIONS FOR HIKE:           

1. Bring a copy of your ID (driver's license), Health Card, and an emergency contact name and phone number with you when you hike.

2. If you have any health issues, please consider your condition before hiking.

3. Always bring two pairs of shoes, along with a plastic bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.  Do not get your driver's car dirty by wearing your dirty boots on the drive home.

4. Bring hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snack

RISKS:  There is not much poison oak. Rattlesnakes inhabit the area. Mosquitos are common but less prevalent in July.  

RAIN CANCELS HIKE.

QUESTIONS:  Call Dan Cortinovis at 925-262-7345 

MEETING TIME:  7:30 AM in the Orchard Creek Parking Lot – Leaving time is 7:45 AM

DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Hike starts at PCT Trailhead on south side of Interstate 80. Exit 176, turn right and a quick left on Bunny Hill Drive past the motel to the trailhead. Don’t go to eastbound rest area or you will end up in Truckee and have to circle back.