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You will also see the craggy outcroppings of Red Lake Peak. The trail
from here to the summit comes and goes, but in general, it climbs steadily
to the northwest. If you lose the trail, be sure to stay high as there
are several cliff bands that you want to pass above, not below. At about
9450 feet, the trail turns more to the north and you should be able
to clearly see the rock pinnacles of Red Lake Peak to the southwest.
From here, continue north until you attain the saddle between Red Lake
Peak and Stevens Peak. There is a trail here, but again, it comes and
goes. Once on the saddle, Stevens Peak is staring you in the face from
the north. The last 500 feet of elevation gain is over loose rocky tails.
Descent:
Summer:
Simply reverse your route back to your car.
Winter:
In the winter, many people leave a car a mile or two east of Red Lake
on Highway 88 and then drive a second car to Carson Pass. This allows
them to ski off the back side of Red Lake Peak, past Crater Lake and
get an extra 1400 feet of descent.
Environmental
Concerns: The high alpine environment is extremely
fragile. Try to avoid tramping wildflowers and bushes as they take years
to regrow. As always, please be sure to pack out all that you pack in.
Advisory:
Stevens Peak is along perhaps the most avalanche prone area near Tahoe.
Highway 88 is closed ALL THE TIME for avalanche control. Avalanche conditions
introduce a distinct element of risk that the skier/boarder/snow-shoer
accepts by stepping foot on the mountain. Always check the avalanche
forecast before skiing/boarding this peak.
This
can be very cold country even in the summer. The wind can really whip
up here producing significant wind chill. In the shoulder seasons of
September/October and April/May, the weather can get downright wicked
so be prepared! Always carry a map, compass, and enough extra clothing
to get you through a night.
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