The Granite Chief Trail is a difficult 3.5 mile hike at an elevation of 6,280 feet. From the fire station, the trail climbs up the canyon to follow the creek for a short ways. It then turns to the right, moves away from the creek and ascends up the mountain under a canopy of Jeffrey pines and white firs. Squaw valley can now be seen below and as more elevation is gained, Lake Tahoe slowly comes into view. The Pacific Crest Trail junction is just up the trail from this point. From the junction the choice can be made to take the PCT south towards Twin Peaks or north towards Tinker Knob.

Directions: From Truckee, Travel Hwy. #80 west and take the South Lake Tahoe exit and follow Highway #89 south for 8.5 miles to the Squaw valley junction. (If you are coming from Lake Tahoe, take Hwy. #89 north from Tahoe City for 5 miles.) Turn west on Squaw valley Road and drive 2.2 miles to the Squaw Valley Fire Station. Hikers must use the large parking area in front of the ski lift buildings and under no condition use any of the parking spaces around the fire station. The trailhead is located on the east (right) side of the fire station and is clearly marked.

Elevation: 6,280 feet

Ending Elevation: 8,200 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,920 feet

Difficulty: Strenuous

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