When it comes to seeing beautiful fall foliage in Northern California, many locals turn to well-known spots like Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and the incredible Hope Valley. However, in the south Sierra Nevada, there's a hidden gem for leaf-peeping. The Sonora Pass puts on an equally mesmerizing show during autumn. So take a drive along this colorful spot in Northern California.
This mountain pass, also known as Highway 108, becomes a canvas of vibrant colors in October.
Start your journey on the western side in the town of Sonora and drive east over the pass.
The Sonora Pass is the second-highest pass with a road in California, with the highest point at 9,642 feet.
Highway 108 ends at Sonora Junction, but since there is nothing to do there, we suggest you drive 20 minutes further on U.S. Route 395 to the town of Bridgeport. This entire drive is a little more than two hours. Of course, you’ll want to make stops along the way!
As you drive up the mountain you’ll see forests of green and valleys of yellow.
On the eastern side the mountains, fields of birch trees turn vibrant yellow during the fall.
The typical peak season for fall foliage here begins in early September and continues through October, sometimes even extending into November, depending on when the mountains receive their first snow.
The Sonora Pass is closed in the winter all the way until May. Plan your drive as soon as you can before the first snow falls.
For your first stop, consider visiting the charming town of Twain Harte.
Take a picture standing under the “Twain Harte” sign, then buy sandwiches for the drive at Twain Harte Market.
Forty-five minutes up the mountain and you’ll come to Donnell Vista. From this point, you can enjoy views of the mountain range.
The next scenic spot is on the eastern side of the mountains. At Leavitt Falls Vista Point you can take in views of the waterfall.
Finally, the last stop on your Sonora Pass drive is the Sonora Bridge Meadow Picnic Site.
Take a seat at a picnic table, enjoy the views, and stick your feet in the West Walker River if it’s not too cold.
Your drive on the Sonora Pass is coming to an end. We recommend you make your way to Bridgeport, a small town with several hotels and nearby scenic sites.
So, if you're looking for a lesser-known colorful spot in Northern California to witness the fall leaves, consider a journey along Sonora Pass. Don't miss the chance to drive this historic and picturesque road.
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