Sombrero Peak route
Jan 2016
From the Sanctuary Cove parking, which is clearly marked, walk west on the main path past the labyrinth. Follow this rock-lined path up the slope to the west and continue as it turns north. After this very distinct path drops in elevation start watching for a fainter trail heading west again. This trail has plenty of cairns. It will intersect with a very distinct north south trail. Follow this south until you pass a great view of Sombrero Peak’s impressive north facing wall (and wonder if it is really possible to get to the top.) Continuing south you will encounter a saddle where there is a distinct trail toward the peak. This trail climbs steeply but without much trouble of losing the way, and without many switchbacks, all the way to the cliffs on the east side of the peak. The trail takes you to the south and wraps around the base of the cliffs to a break in the cliffs on the south side of the peak. Follow the even steeper path to the summit. There is a short and heart rate increasing rock bridge near the very end. I crossed it on hands and knees, but it does not require protection. The peak is reachable in about 2 hours, with breathers. The key on returning is to remember to stay close to the cliff base, as there are false trails that will take you down too early. My partner had a ‘breadcrumb’ tracking GPS program on his phone that warned us if the return path deviated from the ascent, which was easier to follow. Overall the trail is much more distinct now than the few descriptions several years back. This climb is a real gem.
bamboola - Jan 22, 2016 10:52 am - Hasn't voted
Update on trail conditionsSombrero Peak route
Jan 2016
From the Sanctuary Cove parking, which is clearly marked, walk west on the main path past the labyrinth. Follow this rock-lined path up the slope to the west and continue as it turns north. After this very distinct path drops in elevation start watching for a fainter trail heading west again. This trail has plenty of cairns. It will intersect with a very distinct north south trail. Follow this south until you pass a great view of Sombrero Peak’s impressive north facing wall (and wonder if it is really possible to get to the top.) Continuing south you will encounter a saddle where there is a distinct trail toward the peak. This trail climbs steeply but without much trouble of losing the way, and without many switchbacks, all the way to the cliffs on the east side of the peak. The trail takes you to the south and wraps around the base of the cliffs to a break in the cliffs on the south side of the peak. Follow the even steeper path to the summit. There is a short and heart rate increasing rock bridge near the very end. I crossed it on hands and knees, but it does not require protection. The peak is reachable in about 2 hours, with breathers. The key on returning is to remember to stay close to the cliff base, as there are false trails that will take you down too early. My partner had a ‘breadcrumb’ tracking GPS program on his phone that warned us if the return path deviated from the ascent, which was easier to follow. Overall the trail is much more distinct now than the few descriptions several years back. This climb is a real gem.
Sarah Simon - Feb 9, 2016 2:58 pm - Hasn't voted
Re: Update on trail conditionsWhy don't you read the route page:
http://www.summitpost.org/sanctuary-cove/702113
Then see if anything needs an update. Happy to help.
Cheers,
Sarah