Hike Pyramid Peak

Although it stands only slightly higher than its neighbors, Pyramid Peak nonetheless dominates the Crystal Range atop which it sits. Great views from the summit make this a must-do.

The Route: The route is fairly straightforward to Lake Sylvia (see map). Simply follow the well-defined Lyons Creek trail up Lyons Creek, until you reach Lake Sylvia (about 4.6 miles). Over this distance, you've gained about 1,300 feet. Pyramid Peak is now only 1 mile away, but almost 2,000 feet above you. Obtain an overnight permit from the Service Range Station or Visitors Center (see below) and spend the night on the south end of the trail to Lake Sylvia before getting up to summit Pyramid Peak. If you're really looking to push it, this trek can be done in a full day.

From Lake Sylvia, aim for the obvious notch SSE of the lake. This is the trickiest part of the climb, as it involves some scrambling up the the saddle over loose rock, with some routefinding required. Fear not, however, as this is pretty easy going. From the notch, hang a left and walk up the south ridge of the peak. Don't stop until you're on top of the mountain. It is that easy. This is a longer route up the peak, but it is unquestionably the easiest way to summit.

To get there, take Highway 50 to Wrights Lake Road. This road is located about 35 miles east of Placerville (or about 6 miles west of Twin Bridges). Follow the winding Wrights Lake Road about 5 miles in a northerly direction until you reach the "Lyons Creek Trailhead". There is limited parking here. At the trailhead, you can self-issue a required wilderness permit for day hikes (overnight permits are subject to quota and must be issued at the Visitor Center or at Forest Service Ranger Stations). Source

Forest Service Ranger Station:PACIFIC RANGER DISTRICTLocated four miles east of Pollock Pines on Highway 50.7887 Highway 50, Pollock Pines, CA 95726Phone: (530) 647-5415

Visitor Center(s):LAKE TAHOE VISITOR'S CENTERLocated three miles north of the Highway 50/89 junction at South Lake Tahoe, on Highway 89.Call for hours, phone: (530)543-2674

LAKE TAHOE BASIN MANAGEMENT UNITLocated two miles east of hte Highway 50/89 junction in South Lake Tahoe on Highway 50. From the highway turn right on Al Tahoe Blvd. and then turn right at first signal.35 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150.Phone: (530)543-2600