This area refers to the peaks and climbs most easily accessed by the Baxter, Sawmill and Taboose Pass trails. These trails all gain a huge amount of elevation by starting down in the desert and climbing up and over the Sierra crest, their passes all over 11,000 ft. Starting early is often a must as the trailheads are dry, hot and shadeless. Meanwhile the passes can still hold snow until mid-summer depending on the year. The rewards are stunning scenery, solitude and easier to get permits.