Summer hiking at Donner Ski Ranch: tunnels, lakes and the Pacific Crest Trail

Before you go

On arrival, the ranch asks hikers to check in at the bar and sign a quick waiver. In winter, uphill access on foot is not allowed on the property, including skinning, hiking and snowshoeing, while the railroad tunnels are for exploring once the snow melts.

On its hiking page, the ranch gives no trail distances, difficulty ratings, fees, dog policy or season dates. For those details, the safest option is to call (530) 426-3635.

The outings the ranch lists

• Donner Pass train tunnels: abandoned railroad tunnels and snowsheds just across the road from the main parking lot. The ranch invites visitors to explore them once the snow melts, calls the outing easy, and recommends sturdy shoes for the uneven, rocky ground plus a flashlight or headlamp for the darkest sections.
• Chinese Catfish Pond (Donner Summit Lakes Trail): an easy, gradual climb toward Lake Angela. A side trail just before the lake leads east to the pond. The ranch rates it suitable for most children and hikers of all skill levels. From the Donner Pass Road trailhead you can also reach the Pacific Crest Trail.
• Lake Angela, Lake Flora and Lake Azalea: in summer, the ranch presents them as some of the best swimming holes in the Donner area. Swimming is not permitted in Lake Angela, however. The trail to Lake Angela is easy to miss, so the ranch advises downloading a map before you leave.
• Mount Judah Loop Trail: the loop starts at the Donner Pass trailhead, on the Pacific Crest Trail. It runs clockwise, has overlooks of Donner Lake, follows a stretch of the historic emigrant wagon trail and rejoins the Pacific Crest Trail for the return.
• Dutch Flat Donner Lake Wagon Road: a loop easily reached from Donner Pass Road. It starts over exposed granite slabs toward Donner Pass, then drops into forest. The ranch recommends planning it for a clear day.

The ranch also points to the 20 Mile Museum: a series of interpretive signs along Old Highway 40, meant for a scenic drive rather than a hike.

The Pacific Crest Trail at the door

The Pacific Crest Trail, which runs 2,653 miles from Mexico to Canada, crosses Old Highway 40 at mile 1152, just steps away from Donner Ski Ranch. Every summer the ranch hosts PCT thru-hikers: food and drinks, shared-room beds, laundry and package holding (covered on a separate page of its website).

Address and food

The ranch is at 19320 Donner Pass Rd., Norden, CA 95724. According to the ranch's website, its Old 40 Bar & Grill is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., except Thanksgiving.