Thunder Knob Hike at Diablo Lake

Thunder Knob is a short and sweet hike within the Diablo Lake area. The hike is 3.6 miles round trip, with a elevation gain of 635 feet. It is located right off Highway 20 sharing a trail head with a campground. You will shortly pass the Colonial Creek where a bridge usually is, but is taken down after each summer season to avoid damage. It is an adventure in itself to find a good spot to cross the raging creek, we opted to lay logs across a narrower section and hold each other's hands while crossing. From here, follow a rocky riverbed to the beginning of a moss covered forest. Moss covers the forest floor in every direction, hangs off the tree branches, and climbs up the tree bark.

However, after only a few switchbacks, you gain elevation and a new type of scenery. The moss is replaced with towering pine trees and glimpse of the bright blue waters below. The trail plateaus and you pass by a small waterfall, and then approach a rest spot with benches. There are no spectacular water views yet, but instead look up to see jagged snow-covered mountain tops.

The environment changes once again, and you enter a marshy, wet area. During the fall seasons, a small pond with ample plants sprouting out can be a good picture stop.

From the marsh, push forward up another small incline to reach Thunder Knob. To the left look out at the highway hidden in between the trees and the beautiful deep blue water. Keep on the trail a few hundred feet to find another lookout. On a clear day this is a perfect spot to capture the mountains which tower terrifically above.

An additional must see stop on Diablo is a ten minute drive from the trail head- Diablo Lake Lookout. Somewhat of a cheat, the lookout has even better views than the hike. So if you're not in the mood for a hike, this is the perfect alternative.