
Where is Sonora Pass?
Usa, north-america
47 km
2,939 m
hard
Year-round
Sonora Pass in California? Epic!
This high-altitude pass hits a whopping 9,642 feet, straddling Mono, Tuolumne, and Alpine counties in the heart of east-central California.
Highway 108, a fully paved road thatโs about 30 miles, takes you from Dardanelle to Sonora Junction. Get ready for unreal views, but fair warning: this beauty's got a bit of a wild side. Think narrow roads, steep climbs, blind spots, and hairpin turns so tight you'll practically come to a standstill. We're talking an average 8% gradient with sections maxing out at a lung-busting 26%! Seriously, leave your oversized vehicles at home.
Heads up: you can usually only drive it during the summer months. The snow typically shuts it down in early November and reopens around mid-May, but keep an eye on the weather because surprise snowstorms can happen.
When itโs open, though? Prepare for some of the most mind-blowing scenery you've ever seen. Think alpine meadows, light traffic, and views that just don't quit. It's a true mountain road experience, guaranteed to leave you breathless.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 47 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,939 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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