Highlights
▲ Abundant wildlife ▲ Creeks and wildflowers
▲ Page Meadows ▲ Views of the southern Sierras

Segment Descriptionmap
Between Barker Pass and Tahoe City the trail dips in and out of flowery meadows and swoops around craggy volcanic peaks. The joint Tahoe Rim Trail / Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail north of Barker Pass rolls across open hillsides decorated with wildflowers. Near Twin Peaks, the TRT splits from the PCT and turns east toward Lake Tahoe. The trail soon drops steeply into thickly wooded Ward Canyon, where the scent of pine and the rustling of aspen leaves fill the air. It then meanders for a few miles past a small waterfall and alongside a gurgling creek before climbing back out of the canyon. Close to Tahoe City, lush and lovely Page Meadows provide enchanting spring and summer wildflowers, vibrant fall color and year-round wildlife watching. The trail reenters the trees for a last downhill to the banks of the Truckee River and then the trailhead.

Trailheads
Barker Pass: From Hwy 89 4.25 mi S of Tahoe City, turn W at Kaspian Beach onto Blackwood Canyon Rd. and drive 7.2 miles to dirt parking lot. Vault toilet.
Tahoe City: On W side of Hwy 89, just 0.25 mi S of Hwy 28, in Truckee River Access and Recreation lot. No facilities. From paved lot, follow bikd path W on S bank of Truckee River for 0.4 mi then go S around USFS gate to reach the TRT.
Alternate Access: From Hwy 89 2.5 mi S of Tahoe City, turn W onto Ward Creek Blvd and drive 2.2 mi to TRT crossing.

Trail Conditions
Most of the trail from Barker Pass (7,650’) to Tahoe City (6,300’) maintains a 10% or less grade, but there are steeper sections. Snow may persist in spots well into the summer.

Trail Use

This section of trail is open to hikers and equestrians.
Biking – The first 5 miles of the TRT (North from Barker Pass) is closed to bikes. However riders may start at Tahoe City and bike 23.6 miles (round trip) on the TRT.
Recommended for advanced riders only

  • Water - Water is generally available from a stream just north of Barker Pass, Ward Creek (5.1 mi from TC) and the Truckee River (.5 mi from TC). All water found on the trail must be treated before drinking.
  • Caution – Be prepared for sudden weather changes, strong winds, and high altitudes. Please carry a map, as many unmarked trails and fire roads cross the TRT.
  • Signage - The trail is marked at intervals with light blue, triangular TRT logo signs
  • Leave-No-Trace—The TRTA supports and encourages LNT practices while on the trail. (see map for details).
  • Camping – is allowed within 300’ of the trail and 200’ away from a water source.
  • Fire – Fire danger can be extreme, and fires, camp stoves, and smoking may be prohibited. Check trailhead kiosks or call the USFS (530-543-2600) for current regulations.

 

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