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- Clyde Minaret
12,283 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Clyde Minaret
Clyde Minaret is a 12,283 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Face: 18 mi, 3,935 ft of gain, Class 4.
Clyde Minaret at a glance
- Elevation12,283 ft3,743 m
- RouteSoutheast FaceClass 4
- Distance18 mi3,935 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Face
From Mammoth Lakes, take Minaret Road (CA 203) to the Main Lodge and ride the Reds Meadow shuttle, mandatory by day in season, to Agnew Meadows. Reconstruction limits open days, so check the Inyo schedule. Hike the River Trail and Shadow Creek to Ediza Lake, then go cross-country to the base of the face. The Rock Route is sustained Class 4 on steep, ledgy granite with loose debris, and the snowfield below often needs axe and crampons. Climbers have died here, so carry a rope and wear helmets. Most parties camp near Ediza with an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit, booked months ahead.
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
Helmet
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Technical climbing
- Rockfall
- Steep exposure
- Snow near summit
- Loose rock
Quests with Clyde Minaret
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Clyde Minaret?
Clyde Minaret is 12,283 feet (3,743 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Clyde Minaret?
The Southeast Face is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 18 miles with 3,935 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Clyde Minaret?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Southeast Face, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Clyde Minaret dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. 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 Clyde Minaret?
Most parties bring one. The Southeast Face is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Clyde Minaret?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Clyde Minaret reaches 12,283 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 climb Clyde Minaret?
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 Clyde Minaret 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