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Hawkins Peak

The Vitals elev.-10,023 Rock- Broken granite
elevation change 1,600 feet
click here for summer photos
Click here for Topo Map

Hawkins Peak is a big pile of granite, but at least it is stacked rather neatly. It's main claim to fame is that it is one of the eleven 10,000 foot plus peaks in the Tahoe area. It is the only one that does not offer a glimpse of Lake Tahoe. However that is all made up for by the ease of the hike. The jeep trails will easily get you within 1,600 vertical feet of the summit. There actually is a jeep trail to within 200 vertical feet, but the gate was closed. The hike itself was quite easy, although the final stretch is rather steep. On the top there is a solar powered radio station transmitting seismic date to the University of Nevada Reno. There is also a small helipad, which would all but eliminate the problems caused by the winter closing of Burnside Lake Road for a winter approach. the peak does provide good views of the Carson Valley as well as the Mokelumne Wilderness area. While the peak itself looks rather stark and barren, the lower areas are filled with wildflowers of all kinds. We had hoped to end our short hike with a dip in Burnside Lake, but it really isn't all that inviting. It does look like it presents some excellent fishing opportunities, however.
For a winter ascent, keep in mind,
When entering the backcountry, proper precautions should be taken, including avalanche beacon and the know-how to use it, shovel, compass, friend, weather information, and common sense.

Ride Aware, It's Big out there.