Tahoe Donner XC Skiing - Donner Ridge Route
This has got to be the easiest short trip with panoramic ridge and summit views in the Sierra Nevada, combining a little trail-breaking and the Tahoe Donner XC trail system (and a trail pass) with minimal uphill slogging. The summertime trailhead just off the intersection of Glacier Way and Skislope Way is usually plowed, though often not well, in winter. Follow the yellow line below to the Tahoe Donner XC trail system end at “The Far Side”, onward to Hawk’s Peak and return.
An easy, 6-mile out-and-back tour combining on-trail and off-trail skiing.
One would think extending the TDXC trail system the last mile to Glacier Way would be a winner.
A few caveats: You do need buy a trail pass at the Tahoe Donner XC Center. It should be possible to do this on a half-day pass. Due to wind the last stretch of off-trail skiing before reaching ‘The Far Side’ can be both a little thin and crusty. Fresh powder just north of the indicated route in Sunrise Bowl is tempting but there is a spot or two with some potential for small slides. If the parking lot is inaccessible the Glacier Way cul-de-sac is an alternative.
