Pinecrest Peak Loop
Pinecrest Peak Loop Trail
Though it is well maintained and frequently used by hikers and bikers, at first glance, the Peak Trail has a convoluted feel to it. There are actually three trails that veer off of the Pinecrest Peak Trail and because of this, some of the path is narrow dirt, some of it is a network of old logging roads and certain parts are even faint-use trails. Once familiar with the layout, the biker quickly realizes that each variation hosts a distinctly different set of challenges that can all be easily approached from one convenient parking area. Information on trails in this area can be found at the U.S Forest Service Station at the corner of Highway 108 and Pinecrest Lake Road in Pinecrest.
Directions:
To get to Pinecrest Peak, take Highway 108 east out of Sonora. After just over 26 miles on Highway 108, turn right (southeast) onto Herring Creek Road. For the end of the Pinecrest Peak Trail and some great campsites, continue 2.8 miles and turn right on U.S. Forest Service road 4N27. This dirt road forks after a short distance, stay to the left. After 1.5 miles, park near the locked gate near the bridge across Herring Creek. This is the road that eventually intersects with the Pinecrest Peak Trail. To access the start of the trail, a high-clearance four-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. For that parking area, stay on Herring Creek Road for 6.7 miles until it splits. Take the right fork and continue to another junction (9.4 miles from Highway 108) is reached. Take a right at this fork as well and continue to the end of the road- follow faint signs toward Pinecrest Peak.
Content Created by:
Trail Information Content credit: Dean Fleming, Sierra Lodestar
Trail Map:
