Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail
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Table of contents
Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail is a beautiful, hard trail. This hike is over 16km long and gains an exhausting 1,700 m of elevation, making it a real leg-burner. It’ll be worth it, though! Whether you’re camping at one of the two backcountry sites on the trail or coming out for a day trip, this hike will deliver as much as it demands.
Poles are recommended for this hike.
Route Description for Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail
Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trailhead is a must-do despite its intensity. You’ll work hard for every step, but the payoff is spectacular! While this trail isn’t technical, it’s very steep, especially at the start. Poles are a good idea, as is visiting on a clear day if you can.
The start of the hike is brutal, climbing very steeply for the first 4.0 km. Don’t give up! Once you reach the National Recreation Post, the trail evens out a touch. It continues this way until Sourdough Camp, about 5.6 km in. Cross a stream and prepare for more switchbacks.
HIke through a meadow with nice views of Diablo Lake, then through two more meadows before the summit. Once you summit, you’ll enjoy incredible views on both sides of the mountain. The old lookout hut isn’t much further down the ridge if you want to check it out. The trail to get there isn’t very difficult.
When you’re ready, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail is at the Sourdough Lookout Trailhead.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Sourdough Camp, Pierce Mountain Camp
When to do:
May-October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Pierce Mountain Camp via Sourdough Mountain Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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