Pistol Point Trail

Total Miles
1.7

Elevation

2,825.25 ft

Duration

Technical Rating

Easy

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Pistol Point Trail is one vehicle wide with places to pass on this double track dirt trail. The trail ascends from an elevation of 8,820 feet to a maximum elevation of 9,286 feet. There is a seasonal, shallow, narrow water crossing on this trail. Snow can be found about a mile from the trail head, on the east side of rock out the cropping which provides shade even in July. This double track trail is suited for off highway and 4WD high clearance vehicles. Not recommended for 2WD or 4WD cars.

Difficulty

This is a single vehicle width, double track trail. The trail is unmaintained after rain or snow. A few tall stones and obstacles under 6" can be easily avoided. Ninety (95%) of the trail is easy but there are few minor erosion ruts and rocky obstacles to navigate.

History

Pistol Point is located at the end of Pistol Point Trail, see photo. This trail is named in honor of Pink Pistol the famous South Lake Tahoe trail hound. Pistol has mapped more onX OFFROAD trails than any other terrier in California.

Technical Rating

Status Reports

Masood Sattar

Sep 10, 2023

4x4

Open

Normal

Access Description

This trailhead is accessed from the intersection of HWY 89 and Hwy 88, in Alpine County, approximately 15 miles south of South Lake Tahoe Airport. This is a fun trail in dry weather. It starts at the intersection of Hawkins Peak Road and Pistol Point Trail. This trail is closed during winter due to the snow pack and locked USFS gate located at HWY 88. Some cell service was available on the T-Mobile network at the top of the mountain. Food, gas and lodging are available in South Lake Tahoe, California. Food and lodging are also available in Hope Valley, CA.