Alpine County Highpoint Trip Report

Sonora Peak (11,459 ft)

Date: September 13, 2006
Author: Rich Wilson

We used the standard approach from Saint Mary's Pass Trailhead, located on CA 108 about a mile west of Sonora Pass. We followed the trail a little over a mile to Saint Mary's Pass, then turned right and followed a path up a hill. From there, we had an excellent view of Sonora Peak, about one half mile distant across a broad plateau. We crossed the plateau and gained the northwest ridge. A climbers path soon led to the summit.

Fine views were had overlooking the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness to the north and the peaks of Yosemite to the south. It was unbelievably warm at 11,000 feet for mid-September. About 4 1/2 miles round trip.

Area camping: We spent 5 days at Leavitt Meadows, a Forest Service campground on CA 108, about 8 miles east of Sonora Pass.