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- Banner Peak
12,954 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Banner Peak
Banner Peak is a 12,954 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Ritter-Banner Saddle: 22 mi, 6,850 ft of gain, Class 2.
Banner Peak at a glance
- Elevation12,954 ft3,948 m
- RouteRitter-Banner SaddleClass 2
- Distance22 mi6,850 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Ritter-Banner Saddle
From Mammoth Lakes, ride the Reds Meadow shuttle from the Main Lodge to Agnew Meadows; it is mandatory by day in season and road work limits open days. Take the High Trail (PCT) to Thousand Island Lake, then head cross-country to the remnant glacier below the Ritter-Banner saddle. From the saddle, the southeast slopes are Class 2 talus to the summit. The glacier and chute hold hard snow well into summer, so carry axe and crampons and watch for loose rock. Mount Ritter shares the same saddle. Most parties camp at Thousand Island Lake with an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 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
- Snow near summit
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Storms
Quests with Banner Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Banner Peak?
Banner Peak is 12,954 feet (3,948 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Banner Peak?
The Ritter-Banner Saddle is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 22 miles with 6,850 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Banner Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Ritter-Banner Saddle, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Banner Peak?
The Ritter-Banner Saddle needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 22 miles with 6,850 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Banner Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Banner Peak reaches 12,954 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
When is the best time to hike Banner Peak?
The usual hiking window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Banner 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