The audacious plan by gay civil rights activists to take over a snowy, sparsely populated county in the High Sierra was highly detailed and seemed plausible.In October 1970, the Los Angeles chapter of the Gay Liberation Front announced that it had signed up 479 gay men and lesbian women to move to Alpine County — population 484 — to overthrow the government and create a refuge for queer people. You're reading the Essential California newsletter L.A. Times reporters guide you through the most important news, features and recommendations of the morning. By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Service,…