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- Kennedy Mountain
11,439 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Kennedy Mountain
Kennedy Mountain is an 11,439 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Kennedy Pass and Southeast Ridge: 24 mi, 8,485 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Tom Hilton, CC BY 2.0
Kennedy Mountain at a glance
- Elevation11,439 ft3,486 m
- RouteKennedy Pass and Southeast RidgeClass 2
- Distance24 mi8,485 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Kennedy Pass and Southeast Ridge
From Fresno, take Highway 180 past Grant Grove and down into Kings Canyon to the Lewis Creek trailhead just west of Cedar Grove. The Lewis Creek Trail is a hot, steep climb through the 2024 Happy Fire burn to Frypan Meadow, with two creek crossings that run high in early summer. Continue to Kennedy Pass, then follow the short, scenic Class 2 southeast ridge to the summit. Most parties camp at Frypan Meadow; expect downed trees. A Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness permit is required for overnight trips from this trailhead; reserve on Recreation.gov.
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
- Dry conditions
- Stream crossing
- High altitude
- Spotty cell reception
Quests with Kennedy Mountain
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Kennedy Mountain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Kennedy Mountain?
Kennedy Mountain is 11,439 feet (3,486 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Kennedy Mountain?
The Kennedy Pass and Southeast Ridge is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 24 miles with 8,485 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Kennedy Mountain?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Kennedy Pass and Southeast Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Kennedy Mountain?
The Kennedy Pass and Southeast Ridge needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 24 miles with 8,485 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
When is the best time to hike Kennedy Mountain?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Kennedy Mountain 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