アルパイン郡の峠・トップ12

The Sonora Pass climb from the west is one of California's most formidable and spectacular High Sierra ascents, renowned for its brutally steep upper section. After a long approach climb through forests and canyons, prepare for the final 9 miles / 14.5km starting near Kennedy Meadows; this section averages a steep 7-8% but culminates in incredibly tough ramps and switchbacks far exceeding 15% and reportedly hitting 20-26% near the summit. This climb will challenge you to an intense physical battle requiring your absolute lowest gears at very high altitude 9,624ft. Sonora Pass is seasonally closed due to deep snow in early May, often opening only in June or sometimes even July depending on snowpack.

The highest pass along CA 108 is crossed here by the PCT. There are some pull-over options and interesting location markers, but if you organized to start or stop here it is better not to park here but a few hundred meeters down on the west side at a parking area.

Monitor Pass stands at 8,314 feet (2,534 meters) high in California's Sierra Nevada on State Route 89. This pass is an excellent challenge for cyclists with amazing panoramic views of the area, but be aware that it is only open during the warmer months (the dates of closure vary, but it's generally closed between late November and early April).

Ebbetts Pass is one of the first roads you will cross after you left the Sierras at Sonora Pass. If you are lucky, there might be some trail angels around.

The fantastic 2,650-mile long trail that is the Pacific Crest Trail crosses Highway 4 just east of Ebbetts Pass. Here you are well into alpine country. This trail enters the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness and climbs about four miles to Noble Lake and onwards. The views of Noble Canyon and Highland Peak are spectacular.

At 8,700 feet, Ebbetts Pass is a spectacular high mountain pass that is the fulcrum point between two state parks namely Calaveras Big Trees and Grover Hot Springs. It is also a cross over point for the Pacific Crest Trail. It sits just below imposing Ebbetts Peak at 9,160 feet which is just a short easy hike away.

Sonora Pass is the 2nd highest pass through the Sierra, behind Yosemite's Tioga Pass. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses here and is a popular place for hiking. Just to the west of the summit is a picnic area with restrooms, which makes it a good spot to catch your breath after the climb and before the descent.

The view from Noble Saddle is just amazing wherever you look. There is one sheltered spot for a tent or cowboy camping at the top. The descent on the north side might be covered with snow until early summer.