Negro Canyon Overlook hike is casual and easy, but no question well worth it. You’ll probably sweat walking the one mile out to the overlook, but if you’re looking to get a serious workout, I’d suggest a different trek. The views from the overlook are fantastic showing the canyon and Donner Lake. The hike starts from the trailhead at Glacier Way.
I’m not very familiar with the Tahoe Donner area, but I was up in Tahoe City and decided it would be nice to get out on a hike while I was up in the North Shore. My girlfriend and I left our hotel around 10am for the hike. I have to admit I don’t know the Tahoe Donner area well and that didn’t help, but the drive on Skislope Way is seriously breathtaking. While views of Northstar and Tahoe Donner Ski area are amazing, the houses up there are gorgeous as well. We made it to Glacier Way and the trailhead was right in front of us. There are a few different trails up there, but like we did you’ll want to go past the gate for the Negro Canyon Overlook. Below are some pictures.
I wish we had the pup, but unfortunately Jill was back down in Zephyr Cove. We packed up one backpack and you guessed, yep it was my Granite Rocx pack and we were off. The trail is quite flat and wide for the first half mile with beautiful views of the valley. The trail continues with views of Northstar (at least what I believe is Northstar) and the valley. We came to a pretty steep, but short climb. At the top you can go left or right at a fork. Right will take you up to Donner Ridge and that trail continues, but we went left towards Negro Canyon Overlook. At the overlook, you can see the canyon with tons of trails, Donner Lake and Donner Pass. There is also a picnic table, so bring some lunch and drinks. Don’t forget to take your garbage out with you though! See more pictures below!
Getting to the trailhead as I mentioned isn’t super easy unless you know the roads. We got turned around a few times on Davos Road, but it’s not too bad. If you get up to Tahoe City, follow 89 North under Route 80 and make a left onto Donner Pass Road. Then make a right onto Northwoods Blvd and you’ll follow a few more back roads to reach Glacier Way. The trailhead is right there.
I wasn’t sure what to expect on this hike, but we had great weather as usual and the views were spectacular. It’s perfect for the family or the pup to get a little exercise. Here is my MyTracks. Have you been to Negro Canyon Overlook or hiked up in Tahoe Donner? If so, make a comment below! Also, follow me on twitter @sberei! Oh, and lets pray for snow!!
Lake Tahoe All Access 
Looks nice!
It is Josh! Have you hiked in Tahoe?
No, I’ve only driven through a couple of times. Beautiful area.
Cool. Yes it is.
Pictures look stunning. Gonna have to add is to my list of hikes to go on.
Most definitely! Add it to your list!