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- Tinker Knob
8,952 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Tinker Knob
Tinker Knob is an 8,952 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Pacific Crest Trail from Donner Pass: 14 mi, 1,890 ft of gain, Class 1.
Photo: Tim Berger, CC BY 2.0
Tinker Knob at a glance
- Elevation8,952 ft2,728 m
- RoutePacific Crest Trail from Donner PassClass 1
- Distance14 mi1,890 ft gain
- Time8 – 10 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Pacific Crest Trail from Donner Pass
From Truckee, take Donner Pass Road (old Highway 40) west to the Pacific Crest Trail crossing at Donner Pass near Sugar Bowl. Follow the PCT south past Mount Judah and Anderson Peak along an open volcanic crest, then take the short spur to the top of the knob. The route is Class 1 the whole way, mostly exposed ridge walking with wide views of Lake Tahoe and the American River canyons. Expect strong wind and little shade, and carry all your water. Snow cornices can hang over the crest into early summer. It is a long but gentle day that suits trail runners.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- High winds
- Dry conditions
- Cornices
- Storms
Quests with Tinker Knob
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Tinker Knob?
Tinker Knob is 8,952 feet (2,728 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Tinker Knob?
The Pacific Crest Trail from Donner Pass is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 14 miles with 1,890 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Tinker Knob?
Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Pacific Crest Trail from Donner Pass, covering 14 miles with 1,890 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Tinker Knob?
Usually, if you are fit. The Pacific Crest Trail from Donner Pass is a common first summit for hikers ready for 8 – 10 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Tinker Knob?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Tinker Knob with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list