Hike to the Top of Andesite Peak

Soda Springs, California

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Details

Distance

5 miles

Elevation Gain

1000 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Emily Schrick

Beautiful hike in Tahoe National Forest right off of I-80

From the trail map sign, follow the dirt path straight, following signs for the cross-country skiing route, not snowmobiling. Continue until you see a trail marker. You'll veer left to head over to the Hole in the Ground trail. Once you see another identical trail map board, you'll head left. This is the official start of the Hole in the Ground trail, about 1 mile from where you parked your car. From here, it's a nice, gradual, uphill 1.5 miles to the top!

The trail is very well maintained, you will have a hard time losing the trail, especially since you'll see tread marks from mountain bikes the whole way. You'll mainly travel through the understory. Once you officially break the tree line, at about 2.25 miles, the trail will part. Take a sharp left to continue to the peak. Staying right will keep you on the Hole in the Ground trail, which you could continue for 16 more miles in a point-to-point hike.

Shortly after turning left onto the Andesite Peak trail, the maintained trail will end and you'll have to scramble to the top of the peak. It's not difficult, class 2 at the most. Once you get to the top, enjoy the 360 degree views of Castle Peak, Tahoe National Forest, and Boreal Ridge.

Going down is the same as the way up!

Tips

Trail is off leash dog friendly! Please remember to bring water for your pups, this is a dry trail.
This trail is shared with mountain bikers, everyone should practice proper trail etiquette
This hike would be a great snowshoe or cross-country ski route in the winter
No bathroom available at the trailhead
Please practice LNT! This trail is beautiful and in great shape, let's keep it that way!

Getting There

Take exit 176 off I-80. Drive to the north side of the freeway, keep right, following the paved road about .25 miles until it turns into a dirt road. You should definitely have a high clearance vehicle if you choose to proceed in your car directly to the trail head, but parking at the end of the paved road and walking is what most people do.

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Features

Mountain Biking

Snowshoeing

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Forest

Scenic

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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