General Information
We ask that you or your funeral director ship the cremated remains to us, along with the High Sierra Gardens Contract and 'Authorization to Dispose of Cremated Remains' form available from your county health department or your funeral director. We will take care of filing the paperwork.
For complete information on
shipping and acquiring the needed forms please see our shipping page.
Please email us info@mountainashes.com with any questions or requests. You can also get all the resources and personal attention from your Funeral Director or Cremation Society. They will help you through the whole process until the time you need our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
May family be present at the
scattering?
Sorry no. Due to the remoteness
and variable weather conditions it would be difficult to coordinate.
Where will the scattering take
place?
In the High Sierra Mountains of
Madera County California. At an elevation between 5,000 and 6,000 feet, in a
forest that is a mix of pines, firs, cedars, black oaks and open meadows. This
is an area deep within the Sierra National Forest, and several miles from
Yosemite National Park.
Why do people choose cremation
and scattering?
Some choose this option just for
the freedom of finding a final resting area that reflects how one lived better
than a cemetery plot can. Others choose for the lower cost, or for being more
environmentally sensitive.
When will scattering take
place?
We strive to scatter in less than
30 days of receiving ashes. Winter weather (Nov.- Mar.) may make even
cross-country skiing into the back country difficult. If we are not able to
scatter within 60 days we will give an estimate of when we will scatter and
send a form authorizing High Sierra Gardens to hold the ashes until weather
conditions permit access to the high country.
May I visit the scattering
site?
The actual site would be difficult
to find, but the Sierra National Forest has many scenic roads with campgrounds,
picnic areas and breathtaking views. Families driving these roads will find
many places to stop and have quiet reflections by the side of a crystal stream
splashing over rock ledges, or surrounded by snowy peaks and bald granite
domes.
How will I be contacted after
the scattering?
Within 10 days we will send out a
copy documenting place, time and date of scattering. Included will be a photo
of the cremains label and your farewell note prior to scattering to assure that
the scattering was done as stated.
What is the
cost?
$225.00 is the all inclusive
price. Paid by cashiers, bank or personal check. Sorry we are unable to accept
credit cards.
Do you scatter pet
remains?
No. Out of respect to those we
serve we only handle human remains.
How is High Sierra Gardens
different from aerial or ocean scattering?
While some enjoy the
sense of being scattered wherever the wind or sea takes them, others prefer a
quieter final resting place. We ourselves have a love for the mountains,
especially the Sierras and hope to share that passion by serving your family.
By walking into the mountains and finding an individual spot to scatter the
ashes (or bury by request) we can provide both a personal touch and photo
assurance.
High Sierra Gardens, PO Box 391258. Mountain View, CA 94039-1258
