Mt. Houghton

Mt. Houghton, which rises due west of Mt. Rose, ranks as the 5th highest peak in the Tahoe Basin. For three out of the four seasons Mt. Houghton presents as a relatively easy hike. Winter on the other hand makes it a bit more interesting / challenging, (Event is considered a harder Intermediate route). Depending on conditions, this out & back route will either start from the Mt. Rose summit lot or Tahoe Meadows. The route follows a service road to below Relay Ridge then follows the road or ascends directly to the ridge. From there we head north along the ridge to the summit. Elevation gain is apprx. 1,500 ft with a round-trip distance of 8.5 miles if starting from the summit lot. Needless to say, the summit views of Mt. Rose and Lake Tahoe are extraordinary. Snowshoes are the preferred mode of transport but split boards / ski's with skins work too.

Plan on most of a day and include wind protection, extra insulation, and adequate food & water. This trip is subject to cancellation if forecasted weather or snowpack conditions are deemed as unsafe. Snowpack conditions enroute may also impact the ascent, ie; force a turn-around.

We will car-pool to the start. Any questions about the route, gear/items to bring, or anything else, please contact the author.