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11,916 ft · Spring Mountains, Nevada

Charleston Peak

Charleston Peak is an 11,916 ft peak in the Spring Mountains, Nevada. The standard route is the South Loop Trail: 16 mi, 4,865 ft of gain, Class 1.

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Charleston Peak in the Spring Mountains, Nevada

Charleston Peak at a glance

  • Elevation11,916 ft3,631 m
  • RouteSouth Loop TrailClass 1
  • Distance16 mi4,865 ft gain
  • Time11 – 13 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeSpring MountainsNevada

Climbing the South Loop Trail

From Las Vegas, take US-95 north to Kyle Canyon Road (NV-157) and follow it up to the South Loop Trailhead in the Spring Mountains. The South Loop Trail is a long Class 1 climb with steady switchbacks and a scenic traverse to the summit. Despite the desert below, the top is alpine, with snow and ice lingering into early summer and cold, windy conditions much of the year. Afternoon thunderstorms build fast, so start very early and turn around if weather moves in. Bring more water than seems necessary and pack warm layers for the exposed summit ridge.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (40–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Emergency Bivy
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • High altitude
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Loose rock
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Cold summit conditions
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Dry conditions
  • Altitude sickness
  • Steep exposure
  • Remote location

Quests with Charleston Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Charleston Peak?

Charleston Peak is 11,916 feet (3,631 m) tall. It is in the Spring Mountains, Nevada.

How hard is it to hike Charleston Peak?

The South Loop Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 16 miles with 4,865 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Charleston Peak?

Most people take 11 – 13 hours round trip on the South Loop Trail, covering 16 miles with 4,865 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Can a beginner hike Charleston Peak?

The South Loop Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 16 miles with 4,865 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

What time should you start hiking Charleston Peak?

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 hike Charleston 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.

What is the trailhead elevation for Charleston Peak?

The South Loop Trail starts at about 7,690 feet, roughly 4,226 feet below the summit.

Climb Charleston 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

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