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- Adams Peak
8,203 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Adams Peak
Adams Peak is an 8,203 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Cross-country from Frenchman Lake Roads: 6 mi, 1,885 ft of gain, Class 2.
Adams Peak at a glance
- Elevation8,203 ft2,500 m
- RouteCross-country from Frenchman Lake RoadsClass 2
- Distance6 mi1,885 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Cross-country from Frenchman Lake Roads
From Reno, drive US 395 north and Highway 70 west to Chilcoot, then take Frenchman Lake Road north to the lake. From there, follow signed Forest Service dirt roads toward Adams Peak; a high-clearance vehicle is needed and 4WD helps when wet. From the road end, follow old roadbeds and game paths to the saddle southwest of the summit, then scramble a short Class 2 granite step and brushy slopes to the top. The three summit knobs are close in height, and the benchmark is on the northeast one. Expect manzanita, downed trees, and few other people.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Route-finding difficulty
- Remote location
- Spotty cell reception
- Loose rock
Quests with Adams Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Adams Peak?
Adams Peak is 8,203 feet (2,500 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Adams Peak?
The Cross-country from Frenchman Lake Roads is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 1,885 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Adams Peak?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Cross-country from Frenchman Lake Roads, covering 6 miles with 1,885 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Adams Peak?
Usually, if you are fit. The Cross-country from Frenchman Lake Roads is a common first summit for hikers ready for 4 – 6 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Adams Peak?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Adams Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list