PCT and Summit City Canyon Trail is a 15.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near South Lake Tahoe, California that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
backpacking
camping
hiking
nature trips
bird watching
forest
river
views
wild flowers
wildlife
I have to agree with Just Lagge's comments below. Those reviews vastly differ from a description of this trail. They do sound like the route from Carson Pass to 4th of July Lake which is also beautiful but a different experience. The trouble with this is if someone were to rely on those reviews they'd find themselves with a big surprise. The trail is spectacular but very rough most of the way and isn't maintained on a regular basis. A good portion of the trail (for miles!) is hidden beneath scrub and brush which meets in the middle so you don't see clearly where your feet are landing and it was often up to our shoulders. Very few people hike this trail. If you're not a fan of bushwhacking, definitely want to check with the forest district before trying this one. On the other hand I found the solitude (not another soul the entire time) views and beauty extremely rewarding. I did write a review on the full loop (carson pass, 4th of july lake, summit city trail).
I have hiked this area several times and know this area well. The 2 reviews posted below are wayoff track. (For supporting the posted trail) I don’t think these reviews fit this trail description and give bad support to this trail.(as posted). The southern side of the trail can be difficult to follow as the trees and debris often cover it. These reviews may better suit https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/fouth-of-july-lake-loop Not many do this hike. It’s difficult. I will post some pics of the south side. Use cation in winter.
Despite how difficult the trip was, especially with the hiking, it was totally worth it. Enjoyed swimming in 4th of July Lake and Lost Lake. This is a loop trail.
Carla W.
Hiking into the Mokelumne Wilderness begins from the trail head at Carson Pass. Nicely groomed and maintained trails. Always encounter friendly hikers and families out on this trail. First stop, Frog lake 1.0 miles up. Incredible vista overlooking Hope Valley at this point. Next 1.5 miles up to Lake Winnemucca, with the backdrop of one very majestic rock wall jutting up from the water and spiring to the sky! Onto Round Top Lake, 1.0 miles. Make the 8 miles loop and descend down onto Woods Lake, a little piece of Heaven on earth!! Birding, wildflowers, amazing!!!! Be prepared for inclement weather. Afternoon thunder heads build up. Could be a light shower, or more!!
