The trail passes through 1 mile of logged, private land before reaching the wilderness boundary. From the north, the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed from the Granite Chief Trailhead. From Truckee, take Highway 89 South to Tahoe City. Continue south on Highway 89 from Tahoe City for another 4.2 miles to Kaspian Picnic Area. The road follows Blackwood Creek for 2.3 miles, crosses the creek and then climbs 4.8 miles to Barker Pass.
Pavement ends at the summit.
The trailhead is 0.3 miles beyond where the pavement ends. Granite Chief Trailhead From Truckee, take Highway 89 South to the Squaw Valley Road. Go 3 miles to the head of the valley and look for the Squaw Valley Fire Station on the right. The Granite Chief Trail begins just behind the Fire Station. Park across the road in the ski area parking lot.