Donner Lake Rim Trail 2021 - Glacier Way to Drifter Hut

The Donner Lake Rim Trail (DRLT) is a Land Trust project to build a 23-mile multi-use trail on the mountains and ridges surrounding Donner Lake. Hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians will enjoy stunning views of Donner Lake, Mount Rose and the Pacific Crest. This hike will take us to the Drifter Hut, which sits on a ridge top where we will enjoy views to the northwest of Castle Peak and Frog Lake Cliffs, as well as a full Sierra panorama to the south. The return follows The Far Side trail and at its highest point, 7,818 ft, you will be treated to phenomenal 360 degree views

Hiking details: This is a moderate 4 mile out and back hike with approximately 700 ft elevation change.

FAQs

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

   From downtown Truckee:

Take Donner Pass Road to Northwoods Blvd. At the intersection of Northwoods and Northwoods, turn left. in about 3 miles, turn left on Davos Drive (This is the 4th intersection of Davos and Northwoods - after Christie Lane). At the T intersection, turn right onto Skislope Way. In 2.5 miles, turn left on Glacier Way and follow road to trailhead parking

How strenuous is the hike?

The hike is slightly over 4 miles out and back on mostly flat terrain on somewhat rough dirt roads at about 7300 feet in elevation. You should be able to hike about 2.5 hours at a moderate pace with some stops.

What should I bring to the event?

Please wear closed toe shoes and bring bug spray, sunscreen, water, and snacks you'll need for our outing. Depending on the weather, you may need sun protection (hat/glasses) or rain gear or cold weather gear.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Need to cancel or change your date? Contact [email protected]

Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?

Yes. Tickets are interchangable.  Please inform your docent at the start of the hike and be willing to fill out the required paperwork at the trailhead. Please make sure that your substitute is aware of the difficulty of the hike.

Are there restrooms available?

No, Please be prepared to use the wilderness.

Can I bring my dog on the hike?

No. Pets will not be allowed on any of the group hikes. We kindly ask that you please leave your pets at home. Your canine companion is otherwise welcome at every Land Trust property that is currently open to the public. Please visit tdlandtrust.org for recommendations. 

RELEASE and HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT

I, the Undersigned, for myself and on behalf of my spouse, heirs, beneficiaries, successors and assigns, acknowledge and agree to all of the following:

In consideration of my participation in Truckee Donner Land Trust trail building, maintenance days, guided tours, docent led hikes and/or volunteer events, I hereby waive, release and discharge any and all claims for damages or injury arising as a result of my participation in these activities, and further agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Truckee Trails Foundation, Truckee Donner Land Trust, and the U.S. Forest Service on whose property the above activities may occur (collectively “Releasees”), and their respective officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against any loss, liability, damage, causes of action, cost or expense for or on account of bodily injury or property damage arising from or in any way related to my participation in the above activities or as may be related thereto. This Release and Hold Harmless Agreement shall apply regardless of any negligence or carelessness on the part of Releasees.

I acknowledge that there are natural conditions which are or may be inherently dangerous and that I may suffer serious bodily injury or death, or which may cause injury to property. I hereby agree to and assume all risks of harm, including but not limited to property damage, bodily injury, or death, as may result from engagement in the above activities or resulting from the acts, omissions or conduct of Releasees.

I give the Truckee Trails Foundation and Truckee Donner Land Trust permission to use for publicity purposes any photographs or video footage including my likeness that may be taken during the above activities.

I have carefully read this agreement and fully understand its contents. I have freely and voluntarily executed this agreement.

Host or Publisher Truckee Donner Land Trust