Location: Johnsondale, CA
Distance: 2.94 miles
Type: Day-hike; Out & Back
Rating: Difficult
Permits & Fees: No parking fees or permits!
Driving Directions: Google Maps directions can be found HERE. Parking is located on the side of the road and the trailhead is located about 1.3 miles off the Boy Scouts Camp Whitsett turnoff (the trailhead is located on the lefthand side of the road after the Camp Whitsett entrance).
Preparation: Arrive early to ensure a parking spot; the only parking is located on the side of the road. Bring water and sunscreen!
Dog Friendly? No.
The Hike:
After parking, locate the trailhead of the hike. It is marked by a pink ribbon:
A few notes about the trail:
- The trail for Sentinel Peak is not marked. The only trail markers are pink and yellow ribbons that are tied to trees throughout the hike.
- Keep an eye out for snakes!
- There are a few points along the trail that require scaling the face of rocks; be prepared to climb.
After starting the hike, the trail immediately begins with an uphill climb which sets the tone of how difficult this hike is. Continue following the trail markers until the first mini climb of the trail is reached. A rope is in place to help make your way across the face of the rock:
After scaling the rock, continue on the trail. This portion of the trail is the most difficult; there are several steep climbs and the trail narrows. The peak can be viewed during the majority of the hike which helps gauge the distance to the top:
The final stretch before the hike is an uphill climb on sandy ground (this adds more of a challenge!):
After making it to the top of the sandy portion of the trail, one final climb is required before making it to the peak. The peak is marked by a sign that reads “Sentinel Pk 6160”:
After enjoying the views at the top, take the same trail down the mountain. Enjoy!
