Pyramid Peak via Rocky Canyon
Very steep and direct route to the highest peak in the Desolation Wilderness.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 10 km
- Ascent
- 1.2 km
- Descent
- 1.2 km
Summer Fun in Kirkwood, CA: Discover the Best Hikes
Kirkwood is best known for snow, but these trails in the surrounding mountains are reason to come back in summer.
Hiking Moderate, Difficult
Description
Maybe you’ve skied Kirkwood in the winter, when Thunder Mountain and the other peaks are cloaked in powdery Sierra snow. But the fun doesn’t have to stop when it melts. Blooming flowers, shimmering lakes, and dry trails beckon in the summer. Kirkwood’s place in the mountains between Tahoe and Yosemite make it a top-notch hiking destination, though it loses some attention to its more famous neighbors. That’s perfect if you seek less-traveled trails and more peaceful summits.
To explore the national forest and wilderness lands that surround Kirkwood, start with these 6 choice hikes. You’ll discover resplendent meadows, secluded swimming holes, and lofty summits. The trails range from short and sweet to long and challenging, so you can choose your perfect adventure. The mountains are calling!
Routes included
Lake Margaret Trail
Bring your swimsuits and fishing gear, it's a beautiful lake! And don't forget insect repellent.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 3.7 km
- Ascent
- 67 m
- Descent
- 123 m
Winnemucca Lake Wildflower Hike
Hike among especially colorful wildflowers and open meadows to a cliff-lined alpine lake.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 7.8 km
- Ascent
- 192 m
- Descent
- 192 m
Summit City Canyon
Forested canyon with a flowing creek where an isolated mining town used to thrive, leading to a panoramic mountain pass.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 18 km
- Ascent
- 897 m
- Descent
- 897 m
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