Trail Overview

Summit Lake Trail is a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail located near Truckee, California. The start of the trail is relatively smooth as it winds through Johnson Canyon, with a great view of Donner Lake when you reach the midpoint. After the ridge, things get a touch more technical, with some larger rocks (up to about 12 inches tall) and one steep off-camber section. Along the way, you'll pass through pine forest interspersed with fields of Mule's Ears. Downed trees have forced a couple of reroutes near the top in recent years and, as of 2024, longer vehicles may struggle to squeeze through some of the tighter sections. The trail dead ends at Summit Lake, with great views of the ridge up to Castle Peak.

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Difficulty

There is a short sandy and slightly off-camber uphill section, and areas with rocks up to about 8-10 inches tall. Some of the water bars require decent approach and departure angles.

Technical Rating

Eric C

Jul 13, 2026

2007 Toyota 4Runner

Open

Normal

One shallow water crossing, a few mild rock gardens, nothing too threatening. Beautiful views and a fun trail, lovely lake at the top. Really enjoy this one.

Winston Crawford

Jul 02, 2026

Open

NormalDusty

I had the whole trail and lake to myself. Trail was in great condition. I was in a Polaris XP 1000 Ranger.

Horia G

Jun 28, 2026

2025 Ineos Grenadier

Open

Normal

My first time on this trail and my second time going off the beaten path. Trail is as described by others. Some rock gardens, but with a proper 4x4 it’s easy to make it up. We stopped half way, but we’ll be back. Great trail for beginners and explorers alike.

Alvin Yeo

Jun 23, 2026

2026 Ford Ranger

Open

Normal

Super tight pinstripe city if you’re in a wide vehicle. My first ever trail and it was very easy. Did scrape the side steps on some rocks as they sit lower than the truck.

SGT. O.F.P.

May 24, 2026

1990 Jeep Cherokee

Open

Normal

Easy trail that most can make all the way to the lake. Some tight spots near the lake.

Muhammad Joyo

Dec 06, 2025

Open

Muddy/WetSnow/Ice

Ilia Kuksin

Nov 22, 2025

2004 Toyota 4Runner

Open

NormalSnow/Ice

It was really nice! A bit rocky, pretty much icy/snowy on top and closer to lake

Eric C

Nov 08, 2025

2007 Toyota 4Runner

Open

NormalMuddy/Wet

I thoroughly enjoyed this trail. Nothing wildly difficult, but plenty of interesting sections and some spectacular views over the sierras. Some tight twisty parts through rocks and trees, a few mild rock gardens, some mud holes. A patch of snow here and there. Just enough to keep you engaged and thinking about the line you’re driving. One very tight left hander at the end of the trail between a boulder and a fallen tree, that’s a little muddy to boot. The lake at the end is icing on the cake. We’ll be back!

Chase White

Oct 26, 2025

2021 Toyota 4Runner

Open

Muddy/WetSnow/Ice

Glen R

Jul 12, 2025

Open

Dusty

Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. This trail is short, but the reward at the lake makes it totally worth it. The route can be a bit challenging at times due to rocky sections, but nothing too difficult if you’re in a lifted vehicle. You'll just need to choose your lines carefully to navigate through some tight and rocky spots. Larger vehicles might get a few pinstripes—my VW Atlas is pretty wide, and the branches left some light scratches. Nothing a good wash can’t fix, though. Overall, it's a peaceful spot to relax by the lake, have lunch, and maybe even do a little paddleboarding. Quiet, scenic, and well worth the drive.

Eric Bogard

Jun 28, 2025

2000 Toyota Land Cruiser

Open

Easy trail with if you pick the right lines. Beautiful view of Donner Lake about halfway up, and a nice small lake for a picnic.

Jim McG

Jun 11, 2025

Open

Normal

Shout out to the guy that cut the tree before me! We made it up there , thank you. Barely fit , keep that in mind for you bigger body folks. Trail has a few rock gardens and tight squeezes.

Nick Ablog

May 31, 2025

2000 Toyota 4Runner

Obstructed

Deep SnowDowned Tree

Large tree was blocking the trail. Cut portion of it so may be tight for larger vehicles. Still a bit of deep snow blocking the last ~.5 mile.