Rowton Peak Trail/ Razorback Ridge – Donner Summit

Monday, July 22, 2024

DIFFICULTY: Moderate / Strenuous at moderate pace.  Trailhead is at 6,821’ and the hike will include a mixture of dirt and rock trail, with some relatively steep climbs and descents.

ELEVATION GAIN:  1,056 feet

HIKE DISTANCE:  6 miles.

GENERAL LOCATION:  Serene Lakes basin, Soda Springs, CA

DESCRIPTION:  The hike will utilize the Royal Gorge and Walter & Esther Hewlett Rim trails to climb to Rowton Peak, Razorback Ridge, and continue on multiple trails before returning to the trailhead.  The lower portions of the trail are in a mixed conifer forest, with seasonal wildflowers.  Upper portions of the trail will be primarily granite.   Views along the way will include Serene Lakes, Royal Gorge, Granite Chief Wilderness, and various volcanic rock formations.  Mosquitos are active in shaded areas and the portion of the hike in the area of Rowton Peak and Razorback Ridge is exposed to sun.  

TRAVEL TIME:  1 hour 15 minutes each way, approximately 70 miles.  $ 10 donation suggested for driver.

SPECIAL NOTES:

    PACE:  This hike is intended for those comfortable with a moderate pace, at altitude, over mostly moderate and occasionally strenuous grades.

     LUNCH:  We will drive from the trailhead to Serene Lakes. Please bring your
     own lunch to join the group near the beach area after the hike.
 

     RESTROOMS: No restrooms at the trailhead or on the trail.   We will plan a
    stop at Gould Park (Cisco Grove Exit), on the north side of I-80, on the way
    up and there are restrooms at the lunch location.


     PREPARATIONS FOR HIKE:
     1. Bring drivers license, Health ID card, and emergency contact/phone
          number on hike.
      2. Change of shoes- one for car, one for hike.
      3. Hiking sticks, sunscreen, insect repellant, and water (50 oz./ 1.4 L) for hike.
      4. Pack a snack for the trail, a lunch for afterwards.

      HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:   Tom Denzler (lead), Debbie Knowles (sweep)