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- Merced Peak
11,730 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Merced Peak
Merced Peak is an 11,730 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northeast Ridge via Snow Pass: 37 mi, 9,305 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Tom Hilton, CC BY 2.0
Merced Peak at a glance
- Elevation11,730 ft3,575 m
- RouteNortheast Ridge via Snow PassClass 2
- Distance37 mi9,305 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northeast Ridge via Snow Pass
In Yosemite, take Glacier Point Road (open late spring to fall) to the Mono Meadow trailhead. Drop to Illilouette Creek, which can need a wade or a log in early summer, then follow the Merced Pass Trail south and the Red Peak Pass Trail up to the Ottoway Lakes. Climb cross-country to Snow Pass and follow the northeast ridge on Class 2 talus to the summit, with optional Class 3 near the crest. Mosquitoes are heavy at the meadows early in the season. Most parties camp at Ottoway Lakes with a Yosemite wilderness permit, awarded by lottery 24 weeks out.
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
- Stream crossing
- Insects
- Storms
Quests with Merced Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Merced Peak?
Merced Peak is 11,730 feet (3,575 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Merced Peak?
The Northeast Ridge via Snow Pass is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 37 miles with 9,305 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Merced Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Northeast Ridge via Snow Pass, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Merced Peak?
The Northeast Ridge via Snow Pass needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 37 miles with 9,305 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 Merced 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 Merced 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