Sterling Pass Trail

Sterling Pass Trail is a can’t-miss fall hike when the trees are in their autumn glory, but we also recommend it throughout the year for its knockout view. While it can be busy in the peak season, late enough in the fall you can be treated toa quiet, beautiful hike. This trail is hard and there are some switchbacks to grind through, but it’s not technically demanding.

Bring more water than you think you might need for this trail. Pack the poles if you have them.

From the trailhead beside the road, head up the gully. It’s fairly straightforward until you begin to veer up the right side of the gully, where you’ll need to persevere through a long set of narrow switchbacks. You’ll crest a small ridge and descend through a couple of switchbacks before the trail flattens out. Turn back on the ridge to soak up the view.

From the end of the trail, you’ll return via the same route.