The views from Ralston Peak are some of the most spectacular I’ve seen. You’re looking out at Lake Tahoe, Lake of the Woods, Lake Aloha, Ralston Lake, Upper Echo Lake, Mt. Tallac, Pyramid Peak, Mt. Rose and so much more from 9239 feet.
The view from to the top does not come easy. The 3.3-mile climb is on a 16 percent grade. The hike to the top this mostly under canopy, and while the trail is well defined, it does get rough in some places with big steps up. After 2.6 miles of climbing, the real climbing begins for the next .7 miles over a 20 percent grade, and you will have to scramble towards the top. Trekking poles aren’t necessary, but they are recommended, as the trail runs out you’ll have to find your way over loose broken rock. You may need the poles to help you keep your balance and test for loose rocks in front of you that could slip out from under your feet.
Once you make it to the top and take in the views for as long as you want, before you leave there is a log in an ammo can you may sign.
Directions: From Sacramento, take Highway 50 east for 84 miles. The trailhead is on the left across the highway from Camp Sacramento, or here: 38.803811, -120.117360
The Skinny:
Trail: Ralston Peak
Trailhead Coordinates: 38.803900, -120.117460
Trailhead Elevation: 6440 Feet
Distance: 6.6 miles – Out and Back
Level of Difficulty: 🔴
Average Grade: 16%
Steepest Grade: 21.4% over .7 miles
Ascension: 2882 Feet
Trail Condition: 🟢🟢🟢
Scenery: 🟢🟢🟢🟢
Nearest Town: South Lake Tahoe
Challenges: Steep Climb
Traffic: 🥾 on Weekdays, 🥾🥾 on Weekends
Highlights: Views
Best Time: Summer, Fall
Hazards: Altitude Sickness
Wildlife Concerns: Bears, Mountain Lions
Cell Service: 📱📱(AT&T)
Would I do this hike again? Yes
Restrooms: None
Parking: Free; Could get really cramped on the weekends