Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

North and South Loop Trail

LENGTH: North Loop 9.6 miles one-way / South Loop 6.6 miles one-way

ELEVATION: 7,640 feet to 11,880 feet

USE: Hiking, pack & saddle

ABOUT THE HIKE:

• The North Loop offers access to Charleston Peak , Mummy Mountain and the South Loop Trail. The trail begins in stands of ponderosa pine and white fir, then goes past the trail junctions for Mummy Springs and Trail Canyon trails. The path continues its upward climb through Aspen , Bristlecone pines and open wildflower “meadows” after late Spring rains. After winding along rocky canyon walls the trail reaches the east approach of Charleston Peak . The final ascent is a ½ mile climb on switchbacks through limestone and dolomite rock to reach the 11,918 ft. summit.
• The South Loop makes a steep ascent from Cathedral Rock trail head. As it winds toward Echo Canyon , the trail traverses an avalanche chute lined with quaking aspen. After hiking 4 miles the junction for Griffith Peak Trail is reached. The trail then begins a gradual climb through a meadow area. At the 6 mile mark, the trail approaches timberline, leaving the bristlecone forest behind. The final ascent is a strenuous ½ mile climb that rewards you with a breathtaking view from Charleston Peak summit.

DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD:

North Loop: Travel west on State Route 157 to the junction with State Route 158. Turn right (north) onto SR 158 go four miles. Just past the Hilltop Campground Road watch for a turnout on the left for trail head parking.

South Loop: Follow State Route 157 west for 4 ½ miles past Kyle Guard Station into Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. The trail head is marked by a kiosk near the group picnic sites.