TUOLUMNE COUNTY, CA – May 12, 2025 – Good news for Sierra adventurers: Caltrans has announced that Sonora Pass (State Route 108) will officially reopen on Thursday, May 15 at 10:00 a.m. after five weeks of intensive spring snow clearing. If you’ve been itching to explore some of the most dramatic alpine landscapes north of Yosemite, your gateway just unlocked.
At 9,624 feet, Sonora Pass is the second highest paved mountain pass in California, and one of the most scenic byways in the Sierra Nevada. Its seasonal opening each spring is like a starting bell for hikers, anglers, road trippers, and wilderness lovers alike.
What Awaits You on Highway 108 This Spring
While last weekend we enjoyed an early spring ride over Ebbetts Pass, Sonora Pass offers its own breathtaking rewards. Snow still clings to the high ridges, and runoff from winter’s heavy snowpack means waterfalls, ice bridges, and snow-fed rivers are putting on an epic show.
Favorite Spots to Explore Right Now:
- Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River – With spring flows surging, this river is a must-stop for anglers and waterfall chasers.
- Kennedy Meadows – The road to this popular pack station and campground is once again open for early season visits.
- Pinecrest Lake & Alpine Meadows Pack Station – Enjoy forested day hikes or plan ahead for summer camping.
- Backcountry Trailheads – With access to Emigrant Wilderness, Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, and even routes into Hoover Wilderness, the opportunities for hiking and backpacking just expanded dramatically.
Early Season Tips
Keep in mind, while the road is open, the high country still holds snow drifts, hidden creeks running under snow bridges, and icy mornings. It’s a beautiful—but dynamic—landscape. If you’re hiking or backpacking, bring trekking poles, waterproof boots, and a keen eye for terrain changes.
Also, some campgrounds, trailheads, and access roads may still be closed or partially snow-covered, so check ahead with the local ranger district.
Scenic Drive, With Caution
Caltrans crews from Long Barn to Sonora Junction worked 10-hour days, 7 days a week clearing 8–12 feet of snow in some sections. Their hard work means we now have early access before Memorial Day—but please drive cautiously. Roads can remain icy in the early morning and evening hours.
Tune in to Caltrans Highway Advisory Radio at 530 AM or 1610 AM for real-time updates, or visit QuickMap.dot.ca.gov before you hit the road.
Ready to Explore?
For many of us, the opening of Sonora, Ebbetts, and eventually Tioga Pass means the Sierra is coming back to life. It’s time to chase waterfalls, rediscover your favorite high-elevation campsites, and plan your summer wilderness escapes.
We’ll be sharing itinerary ideas, gear tips, and hidden gems in the coming weeks—so stay tuned.
Let the road lead you into the adventure—Sonora Pass is open. Let’s go explore.
