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- Giraud Peak
12,585 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Giraud Peak
Giraud Peak is a 12,585 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Face: 21 mi, 6,395 ft of gain, Class 2.
Giraud Peak at a glance
- Elevation12,585 ft3,835 m
- RouteSoutheast FaceClass 2
- Distance21 mi6,395 ft gain
- Time2 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Face
From Bishop, drive Highway 168 and South Lake Road to the South Lake trailhead. Take the Bishop Pass Trail into Dusy Basin, leave it to cross the Dusy Branch, and climb slabs and boulders to the saddle just east of Giraud. Drop a few hundred feet down the south side and climb a broad, sandy class 2 chute on the southeast face. The northeast ridge from the saddle is an exposed class 4 option. Strong parties go in a long day, but most camp in Dusy Basin. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required for overnight trips; 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
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Stream crossing
- Rapid weather shifts
- High altitude
Quests with Giraud Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Giraud Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Giraud Peak?
Giraud Peak is 12,585 feet (3,835 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Giraud Peak?
The Southeast Face is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 21 miles with 6,395 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Giraud Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 days for the Southeast Face, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Giraud Peak?
The Southeast Face needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 21 miles with 6,395 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 Giraud Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Giraud Peak reaches 12,585 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 Giraud 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 Giraud 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