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- Mount Elwell
7,816 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Elwell
Mount Elwell is a 7,816 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Long Lake and Mount Elwell Trail: 6 mi, 2,900 ft of gain, Class 1.
Mount Elwell at a glance
- Elevation7,816 ft2,382 m
- RouteLong Lake and Mount Elwell TrailClass 1
- Distance6 mi2,900 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Long Lake and Mount Elwell Trail
From Graeagle, drive Highway 89 south and turn onto Gold Lake Highway, then follow signs to the Lakes Basin Campground. Take the trail past Long Lake and up granite benches toward Mount Elwell, joining the summit trail for the final steep climb to the rocky top. The route is Class 1, with dips along the way that add real climbing on the way back. The summit is bare and exposed, so avoid it during afternoon thunderstorms. Wet granite is slick, and the many trail junctions in the basin are easy to confuse, so carry a map. Snow lingers in shady spots into June.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 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
- Storms
- Slippery terrain
- Route-finding difficulty
- Snow near summit
Quests with Mount Elwell
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Elwell?
Mount Elwell is 7,816 feet (2,382 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Mount Elwell?
The Long Lake and Mount Elwell Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 6 miles with 2,900 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Mount Elwell?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Long Lake and Mount Elwell Trail, covering 6 miles with 2,900 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Mount Elwell?
Usually, if you are fit. The Long Lake and Mount Elwell Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Mount Elwell?
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 Mount Elwell 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