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Photo by Sean Duggan.
“Lunar Eclipse Over Donner Peak”
Here’s my eclipse sequence composite that I photographed a couple of nights ago. This is what I had in mind when I set out to shoot the eclipse (though the Donner Summit location was a last minute decision) and I’m pretty pleased with how it came out. I’m working on a more detailed description of the planning and process that will be available next week.
**4-21-14..Print Update: For all who have inquired about purchasing a print of this image, here is a link where you can do just that. Available in a variety of sizes as photographic prints, giclée watercolor prints, canvas prints and metal prints:
http://seanduggan.smugmug.com/Lunar-Eclipse-Over-Donner-Peak/
The three miles of Old Highway 40 that goes from the western edge of Donner Lake to the top of Donner Summit is packed full of recreational and scenic pleasures. Here are a few of your best options:
Road biking-This three mile climb is the highlight of the one of the regions most popular road bike routes from Donner Lake to Cisco Grove. The views of Donner Lake, Mt. Rose, the Rainbow Bridge and the Donner Crest are unbelievable. And with the steep grade, the speed you will be riding will give you plenty of time to enjoy the view.
Rock Climbing-On the second half of the climb, the road heads past some of the best rock climbing not only in the region, but in the world. There are a variety of interesting routes for every level of climber, and even if you are not a climber yourself, it’s pretty fascinating watching people make their way up those massive rock faces.
Photo by Michelle Portesi
Hiking-Just at the crest of the summit, the Pacific Crest Trail crosses Highway 40. You can hike either direction on the PCT and find spectacular hiking. To the south, the route climbs up towards Donner and Judah Peaks, past Sugar Bowl and eventually into the Granite Chief Wilderness and Squaw Valley (or Mexico if you are so inclined). Heading north, the PCT travels through prime climbing territory while dishing out excellent views of Donner Lake and the Rainbow Bridge. It’s about four miles, mostly ascending, to Interstate 80.
It’s also fun on this northern section to wander off trail through the open terrain and see what you find. There are several larger lakes, and a very small, but surprisingly deep, little pond surrounded by granite. You will know you are in the right place when you see a healthy population of Catfish residing in the pond. Reportedly, the ancestors of these fish were planted by Chinese railroad workers building the Transcontinental Railroad some 150 years ago—they were looking for another source of protein to supplement the meager rations they received from the railroad companies.
20 Mile Museum-From Rainbow Bridge heading west you will find 34 interpretive panels along Highway 40 telling interesting stories about Donner Summit’s colorful and often dangerous past. Whether you are on your bike or in a car, they are certainly worth a stop and read.
YOUR FRIEND IN HIGH PLACES 