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.