SUMMIT ASCENT OF NORTH BUTTE

The Middle Mountain Foundation

The Sutter Buttes Regional Land Trust

Saturday, November 15, 2008
Description of Summit Ascent as it appears in The Middle Mountain Foundation News Letter: One of the most challenging hikes. It is a steep route of 1,000 feet straight up North Butte. It is off trail with no easy switchbacks. Only register for this hike if you are in very good physical shape and don't suffer from vertigo.

According to Maidu legend, after death, the spirits of the deceased rest in the Buttes before the journey to the afterlife. Formed between 1.3million & 1.5 million years ago, the Buttes are circular in shape & span 10 miles across. Five of the six peaks rise above 1500 feet.

North Butte rises above a woodland of blue oak, valley oak & pasture in the interior of the Sutter Buttes. It's elevation is 1827 feet.

A breathtaking view of the central valley looking north.

The Sutter Buttes have been called the world's smallest range. Located off Highway 99 outside of Yuba City, the area is usually closed to the public. Our hike was led by Rich Bowder, it was an awesome experience.
        

Hikers take a break after descending South Butte. Almost all of the Buttes is private ranchland & access is only granted through guided tours led by either the Middle Mountain Foundation or the Yuba Historical Society.

          

We were fortunate to enjoy a clear day & had sights of Mount Shasta & Mount Lassen.

View of South Butte, Twin Peaks & Yana Peak. South Butte is the highest point in the Sutter Buttes, standing 2130 feet above sea level.

In 2003, State Parks acquired 1,785 acres of the Buttes, including a section called Peace Valley. On April 8, 2005, the State Park & Recreation Commission classified the State Parks Sutter Buttes Property as a State Park. This classification recognizes the Buttes' significant natural, cultural, geologic, scenic, & recreational resource values.