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- Mount Davis
12,309 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Davis
Mount Davis is a 12,309 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Slopes via North Glacier Pass: 22 mi, 6,220 ft of gain, Class 2.
Mount Davis at a glance
- Elevation12,309 ft3,751 m
- RouteSoutheast Slopes via North Glacier PassClass 2
- Distance22 mi6,220 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Slopes via North Glacier Pass
From Mammoth Lakes, ride the Reds Meadow shuttle from the Main Lodge to Agnew Meadows; it is mandatory by day in season and road work limits open days. Take the High Trail (PCT) to Thousand Island Lake, then go cross-country southwest to North Glacier Pass, the saddle between Banner and Davis. From the pass, the southeast slopes are Class 2 talus and sand to the summit. Snow lingers on the pass into July, so an axe helps early. Electra and Rodgers lie beyond for longer trips. Most parties camp at Thousand Island Lake with an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit.
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
- Snow near summit
- Storms
- Remote location
Quests with Mount Davis
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Davis?
Mount Davis is 12,309 feet (3,751 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Mount Davis?
The Southeast Slopes via North Glacier Pass is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 22 miles with 6,220 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Davis?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Southeast Slopes via North Glacier Pass, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Mount Davis?
The Southeast Slopes via North Glacier Pass needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 22 miles with 6,220 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 Davis?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Davis reaches 12,309 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 Davis?
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 Davis 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