PCT: Interstate 80 to Highway 49 (near Sierra City)

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Pacific Crest Trail: California Section L is a 37.6-mile point-to-point section of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) that extends from Interstate 80 to Highway 49. This is one of the shortest sections along the PCT, making it easily accessible for day and section hikers. This is an easy to moderately rated section and is open to runners, hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. While short, this trail traverses a canyon laden section of the PCT that is truly unique, and spans between the quaint towns of Truckee and Sierra City, making it a must do.

• Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)

Heading north from Highway I-80, the trail traverses across a gentle terrain within Tahoe National Forest. It passes the east side of Jackson Meadows Reservoir and crosses Henness Pass Road. This section ends at Highway 49 in the north with access to Sierra City, a common resupply stop for thru-hikers.

This trail begins by passing around Castle peak and Mount Lola, both high points in the northern Sierra - these sections are laden with wildflower meadows and offer easy going with minimal elevation change aside from switchbacks when necessary. Once beyond Lola the trail begins to descend into granite canyons gradually shifting towards volcanic and pine forest dominated trail tread. This descent continues amongst tall pines, losing elevation and finally crossing a river on the way to Sierra City, where restaurants, a general store, and a cold water spring wait in welcome.

MILES AND WAYPOINTS (South to North)

• 00.00 - HIghway 80
• 15.00 - Meadow Lake Road
• 25.50 - Road 07 near Jackson Lake Reservoir
• 34.00 - Wild Plum Road, access to Wild Plum Campground
• 37.60 - Highway 49, access to Sierra City

Largely wildflower meadows and pine forests.