Mountain Wildflowers at Mt. Judah/Donner Peak Loop Trail

Escape the summer heat and enjoy wonderful native flowers along the Pacific Crest Trail at Mt. Judah/Donner Peak Loop. In Tahoe’s Spectacular Wildflower Trails, author Julie Carville describes this trail as a place where “fall blooming fuchsias, gentians, and rabbitbrush sparkle like jewels on the steep talus slopes.”

Western Snakeroot (Ageratina occidentalis), Rosy Sedum (Rhodiola integrifolia), Mountain Pennyroyal (Monardella odoratissima), Rock Fringe (Epilobioum obcordatum), Potbelly Owl’s Clover (Orthocarpus cuspidatus subsp. Cryptanthus), and Brewer’s Bishop’s Cap (Pectiantia breweri) are some of the flowers previously seen along this wonderful trail.

Plant Specialist: Monica Finn is a plant nerd, avid explorer of native wildflowers, and promoter of gardening with native plants. She is also the team coordinator for the CNPS Redbud Chapter’s Enhance and Restore team.

Location: Pacific Crest Trail and Donner Peak Trailhead, 96161 Old Donner Summit Rd, Truckee, CA 96161

Difficulty: AllTrails classifies the trail as moderate with a 1,223 ft. elevation gain, 5.2 miles in length, and an estimated time of 2 hours 46 minutes, although we may not hike the entire length. Participants can decide to turn back at any time.

What to bring wear/bring: Layers to accommodate the weather (it gets windy at the top), sturdy hiking boots or shoes, water, a lunch or a snack (we’ll stop to eat together), a sun hat, and/or sunscreen, and your favorite field guide.

Registration: Make sure to register for your ticket.

Waiver: Participants must sign a waiver

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