RUBICON PEAK (9,183') CLASS 2

Location: 3 miles NW of Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe

ROUTE A
Drive: Take Highway 89 to turn west on "Scenic Drive" marked by a sign "Rubicon Properties." This road is just north of the sign, "Rubicon Bay." It is 14.1 miles south from Tahoe City (junction of Highway 89 and Highway 28), or 13.8 miles north from the South Tahoe "Y (junction of U.S. 50 and Highway 89 north)." Take another right following Scenic Drive, then left on County Rd 2538, left on Woodland, right on Manzanita, left on Lakeview, right on Crest, left on Forest View, left on High View, then right on Highland to park at the end of the road by the gate.
Climb: Take the main dirt road which shortly turns into a trail at its end. Follow this use trail. It goes along the top of the small ridge to the southeast of Lonely Gulch. This becomes a ducked route leading steeply up the north side of the peak. Nearing the summit, take the right (west) side of the apparent pinnacle that comprises the highpoint. One may climb up the first rock gully to a 10 foot, class 3 knife-edge that leads right (south) a few feet to the top, or go 100 feet around the right (west) to easier climbing around the "back (south)."

WINTER SKI ASCENT: The approach roads are generally plowed. Route A offers a north-facing route that can make a great powder slope for much of the winter. The moderate angle allows for great telemarking through the trees.

TRIP STATS: Route A, 2,300 feet gain, 2 miles one way; winter ski ascent, same.

Notes: There is a great view of Lake Tahoe from the summit. The peak is visible, distinguished by its summit pinnacle, from several points while driving south from Tahoe City on Highway 89.

Back to Northern Sierra Peaks Home Page