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13,706 ft · Sierra Nevada, California

Bear Creek Spire

Bear Creek Spire is a 13,706 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Ulrichs Route: 11 mi, 3,690 ft of gain, Class 4.

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Bear Creek Spire in the Sierra Nevada, California

Bear Creek Spire at a glance

  • Elevation13,706 ft4,177 m
  • RouteUlrichs RouteClass 4
  • Distance11 mi3,690 ft gain
  • Time11 – 13 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia

Climbing the Ulrichs Route

From Toms Place on US 395, drive Rock Creek Road to its end at Mosquito Flat. Walk the Little Lakes Valley trail toward Morgan Pass, then follow a use trail past Gem Lakes and talus to Dade Lake. Climb snow or loose scree to Cox Col, then boulders on the northwest slope to a short Class 3-4 headwall and chimney. The summit block needs an exposed friction move that many people protect with a rope, so bring a short rope and slings. Carry axe and crampons for Cox Col in early summer. Many parties camp at Dade Lake. Start early, since storms build fast.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (35–55 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
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Rope
  • Belay Device
  • Carabiners

What to watch for

  • Steep exposure
  • Loose rock
  • Snow near summit
  • High altitude
  • Storms

Quests with Bear Creek Spire

Peaks near Bear Creek Spire

  1. North Palisade

    North Palisade

    14,248 ft · 23.5 mi away

  2. Mount Sill

    Mount Sill

    14,159 ft · 23.8 mi away

  3. Middle Palisade

    Middle Palisade

    14,012 ft · 26.3 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Bear Creek Spire?

Bear Creek Spire is 13,706 feet (4,177 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.

How hard is it to climb Bear Creek Spire?

The Ulrichs Route is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 11 miles with 3,690 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Bear Creek Spire?

Most people take 11 – 13 hours round trip on the Ulrichs Route, covering 11 miles with 3,690 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Bear Creek Spire dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a rope to climb Bear Creek Spire?

Most parties bring one. The Ulrichs Route is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.

Will you get altitude sickness on Bear Creek Spire?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Bear Creek Spire reaches 13,706 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start climbing Bear Creek Spire?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 11 – 13 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.

When is the best time to climb Bear Creek Spire?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Bear Creek Spire 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

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