Robinson Flat

History of Robinson Flat:

Once a meeting place for indigenous tribes, Robinson Flat later became a trail crossing and served as a resting place with forage in the natural meadow for livestock of the early-day traveler. From 1913 to 1971 Robinson Flat was the summer home of US Forest Service patrolmen who protected this part of the Tahoe National Forest. In the grassy meadow of Robinson Flat there is a pitcher pump that provides cold potable water near a large granite stone with an inscription that dedicates Robinson Flat as the “Crossroads of the Sierra.” Also, there is a kiosk for those interested in the trail conditions and information (as well as pit toilets in the campground). The Foresthill Ranger District of the Tahoe National Forest administers the Robinson Flat Campground.

A mile to the south, sitting atop a high cone-like mass of white granite is the Duncan Peak Lookout, at 7,182 ft elevation, which has observation of much of the central Sierras. Accessible by road, the lookout is a source of spectacular panoramic views of the high crest of the Sierra to the eat and the Coast Range to the west, including Sacrament and San Joaquin Valleys.

Robinson Flat Vet Check:

This is a very “lively” vet check filled with crews and spectators on normal years. Riders/Crews will receive a vehicle parking pass which allows them to drop their supplies at the turn around point and then transport (bring a wagon!) their gear to the chosen crewing area. The past several years, the main vetting area has been closed by the USFS due to hazard trees so we’ve been using a clearing for the vetting area. This has limited crews access to only 2 individuals per rider and no spectators. During a non-limited year, spectators can park at Sailor Flat and then catch the shuttle bus up to Robinson Flat to view the incoming horse and rider teams.