Sunday Peak

WOW. What a gorgeous view. The hike is lovely too. Unfortunately my camera was out of battery, so there are no photos. I will have to use my words.

The trail is easily marked and distinct. Though a sunny day (September 13th), it was only about 75 degrees when we started out about 10:30 that morning, and the perfect weather continued throughout the day. Even spurts of fairly level ground are combined with uphill grades to make the hike both challenging (or at least good exercise) and enjoyable. We were able to stop several times to enjoy the forest and the view through the trees. I believe the trail climbs up to the saddle between Portuguese Peak (to the North) and Sunday Peak. It follows this for a while before turning up the West side of Sunday Peak to the top.

From the peak you can see in all directions, as this is the highest point in the Greenhorn Mountains. The North Fork of the Kern is easily visible, as are several high mountains near the Mineral King range to the Northeast. The San Joaquin Valley was hazy on our day (as it is nearly every day), but to the East the views are absolutely gorgeous.

At the summit are several large rocks, perfect for picnics, a nap or relaxing time. Don't wait til just before you're ready to go to read the registers in the box, they are highly entertaining. Make up your own story.



Fun Facts:

To get there head east through the canyon (178) til you reach the Kernville turnoff- 155. Follow the 155 a ways until you make a left in Wofford Heights to continue on the 155. Follow this up the very windy road (11% upgrade with hairpin turns) until you reach the sandshed opposite the Rancheria Road turnoff. Turn right and head up the dirt service road for a long, long time until you see the sign for Sunday Peak Trailhead. Parking area is on the left. There is a big sign along the road and another just west up the hill where the trailhead begins. All in all it took us about 1.5 - 1.75 hours from Bakersfield.

Hike time: 1 hour and 30-45 minutes up, 45 minutes down. You'll want time at the top too, to enjoy the view.

Water: none. Bring your own.

Distance: trailhead says 1.5 miles to the top, so 3 miles roundtrip. You climb about 1000 feet to the summit at 8295ft.

Yup, this one's a keeper.