Climbing Castle Peak – Donner Pass
 Castle Peak and the lower basin |
|
June 2006
Elevation: 9103 ft.
Approach: 2 miles
Ascent: 1 mile
Difficulty: Moderate, The actual summit requires a 5.2-5.4 scramble.
This peak is the perfect short one day peak bagging experience. I climbed it in mid June and due to substantial snowfall last winter the approach through the basin was still clogged with 5 feet of snow. This actually made the approach fairly easy due to the firm early morning surface. The going was so good that I was able to reach the saddle above the basin in about 1 hour. From there the climb steepens considerably. The final pitch is actually a 5+ scramble to the true summit which I believe is the southeastern most pinnacle.
Descent is swift and only takes about 75 minutes or so. Basically you retrace your steps although an alternative route would be to descend along the other main shoulder to the southeast.
The climb is enjoyable but the real fun is in the reward. The views of the northern sierra mountains are among the best I’ve seen. The Tahoe area and surrounding ski resorts are also clearly seen. Definitely check out the photo gallery on this one.
To get there from the Sacramento valley travel east toward Truckee and take the Castle Peak Rd. Exit at the top of Donner Pass. Go under the freeway and turn up the hill. You will quickly come to a gate. Park here and follow the cross-country ski trail into the basin. From here you can clearly see the peak and the saddle straight ahead.
Climbing Castle Peak Photos
- Eric Davis
|
|
Eric Davis