Donner Summit Canyon

Absolutely beautiful trail for snowshoeing. I wish there had been a little more fresh snow, but you can’t control the weather. It’s a very gradual incline and unfortunately we couldn’t make it to the scenic overlook area because I pulled a muscle traversing one of the embankments but looks like you would be rewarded with some really beautiful views of the lake when you get there. There is parking at the trailhead. It was very icy when we were there so just be careful walking around putting your gear on. We got there at 8:30 on a Sunday and were the only ones there. We didn’t see another person out on the trail until after 10 AM. When we got back to the parking at 11 AM it was completely full and a little chaotic as people were waiting for us to leave.

I always love this trail. It is always reliably well maintained and it has some nice views. Has a gradual climb that doesn’t put too much stress on you. Overall a nice hike.

Moderate hike with spectacular views. Lots of places to stop with wife well marked trails

Great trail; not too difficult, enjoyable granite rocks to climb over and a beautiful area.

Easy hike, mostly covered by trees. Wide well groomed path with signs at junctions

Wonderful, moderate trail to hike with great views.

This is a review of the Donner Summit Canyon Trail. I had a blast with my 10 year-old daughter. The sceneries are breathtaking. It was quite an adventure: there are hardly any signage of the trails, like no kerns or paint on trees. Even the bridges are nameless. The map at the entrance shows names for trails that do not match the handful of sign-posts. However, with triangulating Strava and Google Maps, we didn’t got too lost (use G-Maps to find the exact location of the petroglyphs). Although we visited late June, some parts of the trails were covered with snow. The handful of dogs that we met were unleashed but well-behaved and under close supervision. Lots of poop bags along the trails though. Totally worth it though with amazing views, and various types of terrain. The cherry on top is the petroglyphs section, very well preserved and which offers a deep dive into the history of the region.

Fun hike, although definitely didn’t wear the right attire. A lot of snow, about a foot of snow on the bridge, and thin spots where you can sink, but the views and nature made it an amazing walk. Trees, creeks, mountains and even various metals in the creeks sand, possibly even gold, made for a great adventure.