- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Sierra Peaks Section
- Mount Humphreys
13,977 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Humphreys
Mount Humphreys is a 13,977 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southwest Slope and Northwest Face: 20 mi, 5,445 ft of gain, Class 4.
Mount Humphreys at a glance
- Elevation13,977 ft4,260 m
- RouteSouthwest Slope and Northwest FaceClass 4
- Distance20 mi5,445 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysExtreme effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southwest Slope and Northwest Face
From Bishop, take Highway 168 west to North Lake Road and park in the hiker lot below the campground. Hike the Piute Pass Trail over the pass, then go cross-country across Humphreys Basin to the highest Humphreys Lake, the last reliable water. Climb the southwest slope's chutes to a wide gully and the notch northwest of the summit, then follow a Class 3 trough and two short Class 4 steps on solid rock to the top. Many parties rope up or rappel on the way down, so bring a light rope and helmet. Camp in Humphreys Basin with an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit, reserved up to six months ahead.
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
Helmet
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Route-finding difficulty
- Rapid weather shifts
Quests with Mount Humphreys
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Mount Humphreys
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Humphreys?
Mount Humphreys is 13,977 feet (4,260 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Mount Humphreys?
The Southwest Slope and Northwest Face is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort extreme: 20 miles with 5,445 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Humphreys?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Southwest Slope and Northwest Face, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Mount Humphreys dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, 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 rope to climb Mount Humphreys?
Most parties bring one. The Southwest Slope and Northwest Face is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Mount Humphreys?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Humphreys reaches 13,977 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 climb Mount Humphreys?
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 Humphreys 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