Sanora Pass

I have only attempted this ride from the US 395 or east side of the pass. Take US 395 South to State Route 108 and proceed west for about 3-4 miles and you will find a gravel parking lot and a good place to begin this climb. Sonora Pass is 9,624 feet above sea level. This ride is not as long as some of the rides on this site but what it lacks in distance will be more than made up for in climbing. There are parts of this climb that are around 26% grade and this ride should only be attempted by experienced riders in good physical condition. The climb heading west is fairly easy and steady for the first three to four miles. The next three to four miles get more difficult as you grind your way toward the summit. Upon reaching the summit be sure to take a break and check out the scenery. You begin with a nice gradual downhill but do not relax too much. This will turn very steep after about 3 miles (the toughest part of the climb back) so use caution in descending this portion of the route. The road flattens out for a short time to rolling hills in preparation for the big drop to the base of the mountain at Kennedy Meadows. Again take this portion with extreme caution and pay careful attention to the road. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way back. Upon reaching Kennedy Meadows it is a good idea to enter the camp grounds and refill your water bottles. There is no food or other services here. Rest a few minutes then begin the tough part of this climb back to the summit. The climb will begin steep and long as you climb out of the valley. This part of the climb lasts around 4 miles. Be sure to check out the scenery here as it is very beautiful.Then relax a little through the rolling section and save your energy for the steepest part of the climb. The road changes quickly to a very steep and slow grind as you will know that you are in the steepest section of the climb. Make no mistake this is tough and can tire you out in a big hurry. The good news is that this is only a couple of miles long and when you come out it gets much easier from here to the summit. Relax and enjoy a very pretty ride to the top. Remember it can be quite hot here and there is no water till you get back to the car so watch your hydration. Rest again at the summit and prepare for a sharp and fast downhill start with switchbacks and then a gradual fast descent all the way back to your starting point. Remember too that this ride is not as long but is very difficult with resource limitations so if you attempt this ride take food and water with you.

Distance 37.8 Miles Elevation Gain 6598 Feet Keys to the Ride 1. Bring plenty of water and food if you will probably need it. 2. Ease up the eastern side of the pass 3. Climb the tougher section of this side and on to the summit 4. Check out the summit and head down to Kennedy Meadows 5. Use caution on the descent as it is technical and tricky 6. Get some water at Kennedy Meadows. You will need it on the way back 7. Hard climb back with easier section in the middle 8. The toughest part of the climb is a two mile streach be prepared 9. The climb then eases to the summit. 10. Rest at the summit then head cautiously down to the starting point. The descent is technical and you need concentration even though you are tired 11. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and your accomplishment

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