California’s Great Beyond

Sonora Pass

Sonora Pass is a scenic, mountain recreation thoroughfare that connects to Highway 395 in the Eastern Sierra.

Travel to Sonora Pass

Highway 108 (Sonora Pass Road) runs east-to-west through scenic National Forest lands across the Sierra Range near Bridgeport, California. The pass connects Mono and Tuolumne Counties about an hour north of Mammoth Lakes, California on Highway 395. The pass is narrow and steep in spots, so it is not recommended for long or large vehicles. Open to vehicles in summer only.

Winter Snowmobiling

Sonora Pass at Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area

Sonora Pass is unplowed in winter, so when snow falls from November through May, access to Sonora Pass is great for snowmobilers, snowshoers and cross country skiers. Experienced snowmobilers will enjoy the excellent snow conditions and challenging terrain in the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area. The area provides the opportunity to experience extreme winter sports unmatched anywhere in the Sierra Nevada. Permits are required to use the area but are free of charge - contact the Bridgeport Ranger Station, (760) 932-5899, for info on permits and maps. You can request a permit up to 24 hours in advance Monday - Friday between 8am and 2pm. For more information visit the Humboldt-Toiyabe Forest Service

Summer hiking in Sonora Pass

Summer offers access to fishingroad bikinghorseback riding, hiking, fall color viewing and camping. Picnic at the top of the Sonora Pass on the Walker River at Sonora Picnic Area. This is a beautiful location with several tables, grills and restroom facilities, used by motorists and hikers passing through on the Pacific Crest Trail. Expect wind on the summit and far-reaching views. 

Campgrounds in Sonora Pass

Summer trips

Sonora Bridge Campground is a 23-site campground open in June, July, August and September. Located on the West Walker River in a Jeffrey pine forest, this location provides peaceful rustic camping for fishermen and hikers on Sonora Pass traveling between Bridgeport, Ca. and Walker, Ca. Views encompass the high Sierra peaks that surround Sonora Pass. Scenic Leavitt Meadows is 4.5 miles west. Water and toilets are provided. This is a dog-friendly campground. Sites are first-come, first-served.

Leavitt Meadows Campground offers 20 rustic sites overlooking the West Walker River. Camp in an area shaded by pines and popular with hikers, rock climbers and fishermen seeking the solitude and adventure in surrounding high alpine lakes, peaks and trails. Water, vault toilets and bear lockers are provided. A pack station is close by. Sites are first-come , first-served .

Sonora Pass Helpful links: 
Humboldt-Toiyabe Forest Service (winter recreation permits)
Bridgeport, California 
Mono County Fishing Guide