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- Mount Brewer
13,567 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Brewer
Mount Brewer is a 13,567 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northwest Slopes via Sphinx Col: 27 mi, 9,632 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Matthes, F.E
Mount Brewer at a glance
- Elevation13,567 ft4,135 m
- RouteNorthwest Slopes via Sphinx ColClass 2
- Distance27 mi9,632 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northwest Slopes via Sphinx Col
From Fresno, take CA 180 through Grant Grove and Cedar Grove to Roads End. Hike the Bubbs Creek Trail to the Avalanche Pass trail, climb its long switchbacks, and leave it at Sphinx Creek for the Sphinx Lakes. Continue over boulders to Sphinx Col, then traverse below North Guard to the Northwest Slopes, a long Class 2 talus climb. The register sits on an easy pinnacle, while the true high block takes one exposed move. The summit view spans much of the range. Bear canisters are required. A Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness permit is required for the overnight trip.
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
- Loose rock
- High altitude
- Storms
- Snow near summit
Quests with Mount Brewer
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Mount Brewer
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Brewer?
Mount Brewer is 13,567 feet (4,135 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Mount Brewer?
The Northwest Slopes via Sphinx Col is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 27 miles with 9,632 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Brewer?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Northwest Slopes via Sphinx Col, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Mount Brewer?
The Northwest Slopes via Sphinx Col needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 27 miles with 9,632 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 Mount Brewer?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Brewer reaches 13,567 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 Mount Brewer?
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 Mount Brewer 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