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Peter Grubb Hut is located below Castle Peak in Round Valley, 3 miles north of the Castle Peak trailhead near I-80. Expect approximately 800′ of elevation gain. The route is poorly marked by orange triangles mounted obscurely in trees at 100-200 yard intervals. Overnight parking is available at the California Sno-Park at the Boreal-Castle Peak exit on I-80. Park on the frontage road east of the Boreal Inn and walk back under the freeway to the trailhead. Topo map: Norden 7-1/2′ quad.
There are day trip possibilities to Paradise Valley, Basin Peak, Castle Peak, and Sand Ridge Lake. Round Valley is a good instructional and practice area for skiers. The hut is just off the Pacific Crest Trail and is a popular destination for day trippers; daytime privacy and security are minimal.
It was cloudy and rain most of the time at the hut but being able to stay in the while in the backcountry made that winter an awesome experience. I 100% recommend a stay here. At $20/night it is well worth it!
Other than the !@#$%^ Mosquitos, GREAT!
It is a stone's throw from the Pacific Crest Trail. If you are doing the trail, it would be a good resting spot.
I was on a back pack trip and camped near there last summer (2013). Weather was great, but the mosquitos were out in force! OFF! only attracted them!
We were able to pump some Absolutely Wonderful water in the stream there.
There is a neat two story out-house there. (One is up a ramp by about 6-8 feet. That way, when the area is snowed in, you can still take care of business!)
Got caught in a late July hailstorm near there many years ago. I was wearing shorts and a rain drenched t-shirt and was starting to collapse.
This place saved my life.
A plus is interesting people who hike the PCT. The log book has a lot of LOTR names.
3 mile hike (or ski) into the hut from the Donner Pass Sno Park. Shelter from the snow and wind and gets you access to some awesome powder conditions (depending on recent weather). Also a good option for beginners who are starting to get into Backcountry skiing.
What a place to get out to the wilderness! Highly recommend! Pack light then the hike will not be that tough.
