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- Joe Devel Peak
13,328 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Joe Devel Peak
Joe Devel Peak is a 13,328 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the West Ridge via Cottonwood Pass: 34 mi, 7,185 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: C N, CC BY-SA 2.5
Joe Devel Peak at a glance
- Elevation13,328 ft4,062 m
- RouteWest Ridge via Cottonwood PassClass 2
- Distance34 mi7,185 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the West Ridge via Cottonwood Pass
Drive from Lone Pine up Horseshoe Meadow Road to the Cottonwood Pass trailhead. Cross Cottonwood Pass and follow the Pacific Crest Trail north to a camp at Rock Creek, then continue up the trail to the sandy plateau near Guyot Flat and head east to the west ridge. The ridge is Class 2 and firmer than the soft sand on the other slopes. Pickering, Newcomb and Chamberlin sit on the same horseshoe ridge above Perrin Creek and are often climbed on one trip. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required for the overnight approach, with a summer quota. Carry a bear canister and plan on three days.
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
- Remote location
- Storms
- High altitude
- Loose rock
Quests with Joe Devel Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Joe Devel Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Joe Devel Peak?
Joe Devel Peak is 13,328 feet (4,062 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Joe Devel Peak?
The West Ridge via Cottonwood Pass is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 34 miles with 7,185 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Joe Devel Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the West Ridge via Cottonwood Pass, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Joe Devel Peak?
The West Ridge via Cottonwood Pass needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 34 miles with 7,185 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 Joe Devel Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Joe Devel Peak reaches 13,328 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 Joe Devel 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 Joe Devel 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