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Sawtooth Ridge

California > Lake Tahoe > Truckee River C… > Big Chief Area

Description

Sawtooth Ridge is the obvious wall to the east of the road, just before the main Big Chief parking area. There are a handful of good routes here, ranging from 5.7-5.12, and you're likely to have the place to yourself. Worth a trip if you're seeking solitude or if you've done everything at Big Chief.

Getting There

Park on the left in a large clearing, shortly (1/10th mile) before the main Big Chief parking area. A trail heads east from the parking and downhill, crossing a seasonally-dry creek. On the other side of the creek, look for cairns, which indicate the start of a fairly distinct trail to the base. If you find the trail, the approach probably takes 10-15 minutes and is a bit shorter than Big Chief.

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Cliff Band from a Distance
[Hide Photo] Cliff Band from a Distance

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Jordy Clements
Incline Village, NV
[Hide Comment] 5 stars to whomever has been building cairns on the approach to Sawtooth. As of 11/15/21, a true golden highway of stacked rocks. Couldn't have been easier to find from the parking area. Tour de force performance from the local community! Nov 15, 2021
Jared Anwyl
El Dorado Hills
[Hide Comment] Cairns where so awesome. When you are crossing the creek (puddles that can easily be navigated) mosquito repellent could've been great. Jul 11, 2023