Yak logoYAK
  1. …
  2. Yak
  3. Quests
  4. Sierra Peaks Section
  5. Mount Emerson

13,228 ft · Sierra Nevada, California

Mount Emerson

Mount Emerson is a 13,228 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the South Slope: 10 mi, 3,955 ft of gain, Class 3.

Plan this climbView Sierra Peaks Section
Mount Emerson in the Sierra Nevada, California

Photo: Adorabutton, CC BY-SA 4.0

Mount Emerson at a glance

  • Elevation13,228 ft4,031 m
  • RouteSouth SlopeClass 3
  • Distance10 mi3,955 ft gain
  • Time9 – 11 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia

Climbing the South Slope

From Bishop, drive Highway 168 west about 18 miles, turn onto North Lake Road and park in the hiker lot near the pack station, then walk to the Piute Pass trailhead in North Lake Campground. Hike the Piute Pass Trail past Loch Leven and leave it about a quarter mile beyond the lake. The South Slope climbs loose talus and chutes to the summit ridge, with Class 3 moves near the top. The Southeast Face is a separate roped 5.4 climb, not this route. Descend the same way and watch for rockfall from parties above. Start early, since storms often build over the crest by early afternoon.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (30–40 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
  • Helmet

What to watch for

  • Loose rock
  • Rockfall
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Storms

Quests with Mount Emerson

Peaks near Mount Emerson

  1. North Palisade

    North Palisade

    14,248 ft · 12.8 mi away

  2. Mount Sill

    Mount Sill

    14,159 ft · 13.1 mi away

  3. Middle Palisade

    Middle Palisade

    14,012 ft · 15.7 mi away

  4. Split Mountain

    Split Mountain

    14,064 ft · 19.9 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Mount Emerson?

Mount Emerson is 13,228 feet (4,031 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.

How hard is it to climb Mount Emerson?

The South Slope is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 10 miles with 3,955 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Mount Emerson?

Most people take 9 – 11 hours round trip on the South Slope, covering 10 miles with 3,955 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is Mount Emerson dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a helmet for Mount Emerson?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the South Slope, so a helmet is on the gear list.

Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Emerson?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Emerson reaches 13,228 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start climbing Mount Emerson?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 9 – 11 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.

When is the best time to climb Mount Emerson?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Mount Emerson 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

App StoreGoogle Play