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- Devils Crag
12,623 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Devils Crag
Devils Crag is a 12,623 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northwest Arete: 37 mi, 10,230 ft of gain, Class 4.
Devils Crag at a glance
- Elevation12,623 ft3,847 m
- RouteNorthwest AreteClass 4
- Distance37 mi10,230 ft gain
- Time3 – 4 daysExtreme effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northwest Arete
From Bishop, drive to the South Lake trailhead and cross Bishop Pass and Dusy Basin to Le Conte Canyon, then follow the John Muir Trail south to Grouse Meadow. Ford the Middle Fork Kings, which is dangerous in early summer, climb steep forest above the brushy creek into the Rambaud Creek drainage, and grind up long talus to Rambaud Pass. The Northwest Arete is sustained, exposed class 4 on fractured volcanic rock, with a knife-edge downclimb into a notch as the crux. Bring a short rope and helmet. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required; reserve on Recreation.gov up to six 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
- Steep exposure
- Knife-edge ridge
- Loose rock
- Stream crossing
- Remote location
Quests with Devils Crag
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Devils Crag
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Devils Crag?
Devils Crag is 12,623 feet (3,847 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Devils Crag?
The Northwest Arete is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort extreme: 37 miles with 10,230 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Devils Crag?
Most climbers plan 3 – 4 days for the Northwest Arete, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Devils Crag 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 Devils Crag?
Most parties bring one. The Northwest Arete is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Devils Crag?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Devils Crag reaches 12,623 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 Devils Crag?
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 Devils Crag 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