Sonora Peak Hike
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Table of contents
Hike up to the summit of the Stanislaus National Forests’ highest peak along the Sonora Peak Hike. This demanding adventure rewards impressive scenes of the High Sierra from above the second-highest mountain pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
Route Description for Sonora Peak Hike
The Sonora Peak Trail is an incredible adventure that boasts breathtaking scenery of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Wander through mixed woodlands before scrambling up the rocky scree to the summit of Sonora Peak. Note this path requires endurance and a sturdy pair of footwear as you will require to do some rock-climbing! Mind your footing and try to summit before noon to mitigate the chances of getting caught in a nasty afternoon storm. Though a trail GPS is not necessary, it is recommended as sections of the route are hard to follow, especially when snow cloaked.
Setting out from the trailhead off CA-108, the Sonora Peak Hike follows the Stanislaus Peak Trail. This route will guide you north, immediately climbing through a thinning forest of pines and over snow-melt streams. Eventually, you will reach an intersection; keep right here. At this point, the trail will become more intense, requiring some scrambling over the rocky scree. Take your time and mind your footing as you navigate the technical terrain to the summit. You will be granted panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada from atop the peak. Marvel in the grandeur of the mountainous landscape, then continue hiking southeast down the eastern slope of the summit.
At the next junction, turn right onto the PCT, which will redirect you southwardly. Gradually descending back beneath the treeline, you will eventually reach CA-108. From here, turn right and walk along the shoulder of the road back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Sonora Peak Hike Trailhead
The Sonora Peak Hike is accessed via the Sonora Peak Trailhead off CA-108.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Backcountry Camping, wilderness permit required.
When to do:
Year-round
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Circuit
Sonora Peak Hike Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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