This overnight journey into the Granite Chief Wilderness ventures into a quieter side of the Tahoe region, where rocky mountain passes and broad granite landscapes give way to tucked away basins and high country views. The trail gradually climbs into open alpine terrain, creating a feeling of space and solitude that defines this part of the Sierra. The experience offers a rewarding blend of effort and scenery for hikers looking to spend a night immersed in a wild mountain setting.

Day 1 (7 miles and 2,200 feet of elevation gain) 

• 11:30 a.m. meetup at the parking location 

• 12:00 p.m. hike starts

• 1:00 p.m. lunch 

• 6:30 p.m. reach campsite and set up tents

• 7:00 p.m. dinner

• 7:30 p.m. board or card games

• 9:30 p.m. sleep

Day 2 (10 miles and 2,200 feet of elevation gain) 

• 7:00 a.m. wake up 

• 7:30 a.m. breakfast

• 8:00 a.m. break down tents

• 8:30 a.m. hike starts

• 12:30 p.m. lunch

• 6:30 p.m. hike ends at the parking location

The trip will start Saturday, April 11th, at 11:30 a.m. and will end Sunday, April 12th, at 6:30 p.m.

The starting and ending point will be Shanks Cove Trailhead, located at 39°07'54.4"N 120°19'49.7"W. The campsite will be dispersed camping near the Five Lakes region, adjacent to Alpine Meadows.

If you would like to rent gear, there will be an option to do so on the trip sign up page. Supplies are limited, so it is recommended that you reserve gear as soon as possible. Below is a list of items needed for the trip.

Essentials:

• Backpack

• Tent 

• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad 

• Two full water bottles 

• Headlamp 

• Warm layers for evening and morning 

• Rain jacket 

• Toiletries  

• Hiking shoes 

Recommended:

• Snacks 

• Water filter (One will be provided to share) 

• Sun protection 

• Small trash bag

Meals will be provided, however you are welcome to bring your own if you would like.

If you would like to be picked up from a predetermined meeting point prior to the trip, you may register for transportation on the trip sign up page. To learn more, visit the Transportation page. Seating is limited, so please reserve your spot as soon as possible. If you plan to drive yourself or if transportation is full, follow the directions below to reach the destination.

Follow Mosquito ridge road till French Meadows Reservoir, then take the first right onto the gravel road and follow east until you reach Shark’s Cove Trailhead (See coordinates in “Where” section). Be prepared to drive around 10 miles on dirt or gravel roads to reach the destination. Cellular service may be limited or unavailable in the area, so plan your route ahead of time.

Below you can find the meals that will be provided during the trip. Breakfast will not be provided on Day 1, so we recommend eating before arrival. It is also recommended to bring your own snacks as there will be a limited supply available. Please reach out to support@driftwoodcommunity.com if there are any dietary questions or concerns. 

• Day 1 Lunch: Peanut butter and Jelly on a whole wheat bun

• Day 1 Dinner: Pesto and mozzarella wrap with sun dried tomatoes

• Day 2 Breakfast: Bagel with honey and peanut butter

• Day 2 Lunch: Tortilla wraps with hard cheese, salami, and mustard

• Snacks: Protein bars, nuts, beef jerky, and dried fruit

Driftwood membership is not required for this or any other camping trips. However, for individuals interested in becoming members, you will receive 25% off all trips, access to all day hikes, and an invite to the Driftwood community group chat.

To become a member, click the Driftwood Member Page button and sign up. Current members should sign up for this trip through the member page to receive the discount.