Northern California - Sonora pass
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I climbed Sonora Pass back in July, and thinking about going there again before the
weather gets too bad. When would be the latest time you think it can be open
and weather still reasonable for riding. Since there is no weather forecast for
the pass itself (at least I can't find any) is there anyway to guesstimate
from the forecast temp. in Dardanelle what it would be like as you go to higher elevation?
Thank you.
tprevost
10-01-09, 10:59 PM
Probably November as long as we haven't had an early snow... will probably be pretty chilly at the top though! :thumb:
valleygirl
10-01-09, 11:09 PM
I was up there last Saturday. I didn't ride it, but I saw a sign that just amazed me. About a mile from HWY 395 the sign posted a 26* grade 10 miles ahead. I only drove to this sign , I didn't want to ruin my poor car. Is it really that steep and for how long?
By the way the weather was beautiful and the trees are turning colors.
rumbutter
10-01-09, 11:44 PM
I was up there last Saturday. I didn't ride it, but I saw a sign that just amazed me. About a mile from HWY 395 the sign posted a 26* grade 10 miles ahead. I only drove to this sign , I didn't want to ruin my poor car. Is it really that steep and for how long?
By the way the weather was beautiful and the trees are turning colors.
I have seen 18 wheelers attempt the steep sections and died trying on several occasions but cars have no problem.
BenRidin
10-01-09, 11:46 PM
I'd make it as soon as possible. Cal Trans closes down these roads as soon as the first flake falls from the sky. This pass has been on my target list for awhile. I'd love to do it as well.
A simple Google search yielded this little tidbit of info:
Earliest Closure: 17-Oct
Latest Closure: 11-Dec
Earliest Reopening: 28-Apr
Latest Reopening: 25-May
BR
gpelpel
10-02-09, 12:37 AM
The pass may close at the first snow storm and reopen a few days later if the forecast clears. Once the snow get too thick they will close it until the Spring.
It's a beautiful road to drive especially in the Fall with all the aspen trees in their brilliant colors. On a bike it has to be a heck of an accomplishment.
Sagebum
10-03-09, 11:21 PM
We try to do this once before the road opens and once in the fall.
Final 14% ramp to the top on the east side....in May
http://www.sagebum.com/BikeForums/SonoraEastMayBF.JPG
Never have found a 26% spot but in this area on the west side we get readings in the very low 20's.
http://www.sagebum.com/BikeForums/SonoraWestMayBF.JPG
If we get home in time, we'll be up there Sunday the 11th.....weather depending too.
uspspro
10-04-09, 01:20 AM
The Civic had trouble on Sonora from the west side, up near the top. It made it just fine, but had very little power.
Sagebum
10-04-09, 09:26 AM
The Civic had trouble on Sonora from the west side, up near the top. It made it just fine, but had very little power.
uspspro
After the Everest Challenge, you two would dance up both sides of Sonora on your tandem! :thumb: