Sitton Peak

Trail: Sitton Peak Truck Trail

Miles: 9.6

Type: Out and Back

My Time: 3.5 Hours

Elevation Gain/Loss: 2096 ft.

Difficulty: Easy

Parking Permit: Adventure Pass

Location: Cleveland National Forest

If you want an easy peak to summit…or you’re ready to start your training for some bigger peaks, than this is the one for you! The highest elevation is just over 3200 feet. So if you’re new to elevation start here! The best part is Sitton Peak will leave you with an awesome 360 view overlooking the surrounding hills.

When it comes to picking your route, there are a few different ways you can access this peak. We chose the trail which starts off Ortega Highway. We recorded 9.6 miles round trip with just over 2000 feet of elevation gain. For those who are just getting into hiking, this may sound like a lot…but I can guarantee you it’s not bad. The starting elevation is very low compared to the mountains which is perfect for a training hike. The majority of the trail consisted of a steady incline and easy to follow along trail. Only 2 sections of a slight downhill on your way up. BUT, the final of the two downhills lead you to the bottom of the final uphill! Now this last section is a little less than half a mile long, but you go straight up. And when I say straight up I mean you will gain about 800 feet of elevation! This section of the trail is easy to follow along. I recommend paying attention to the rocks (so you don’t trip) and try not to slip on the loose sandy/dirt as you climb up. I can guarantee you the short little section will get your heart rate up no matter who you are.

There were countless amounts of people on the trails and at the summit which shows it is very popular, as well as easily accessible. It is not a race so just take your time with a reasonable pace for yourself and group. It took us about 3 1/2 hours to complete this (actual hiking time, not including sitting and enjoying the view). If you are an avid hiker, our time can be used to estimate you’ll be somewhere within this timeframe as well. If you’re new to hiking, be aware it might take you a little longer if you stop a lot or a little slower. Which is perfectly fine and you’ll still make it. I put how long it took us so people have an idea of how long it may take. Sometimes on the AllTrails app. the average time is way off. I know for myself, if I’m trying to figure out how long it will take me I want to have the most accurate timing, not just an average.

The majority of the trail is sun exposed so make sure you have your sun protection and/or sunscreen. AllTrails list this hike as 10 miles, but as I said before, we recorded just under 10 miles. Make sure you have plenty of water and any snacks if you prefer for this hike. Dogs are allowed as long as they are leashes. But don’t forget to bring water for them as well. When it comes to parking, a parking lot is on the opposite side of the highway from the candy store. You will need an Adventure Pass to park. If this fills up, you can also find parking along Ortega Highway in the designated areas. The trail head is located on the same side as the candy store. Be careful when crossing the highway if you park in the parking lot.