- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Sierra Peaks Section
- Mount Kaweah
13,806 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Kaweah
Mount Kaweah is a 13,806 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the South Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo: 50 mi, 14,790 ft of gain, Class 2.
Mount Kaweah at a glance
- Elevation13,806 ft4,208 m
- RouteSouth Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big ArroyoClass 2
- Distance50 mi14,790 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the South Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo
From Three Rivers, drive the winding Mineral King Road (late May to October, construction delays through 2027) to the Sawtooth trailhead. Backpack over Sawtooth Pass, down to Big Arroyo, and east on the High Sierra Trail to its high point south of the peak. From there it is a long, steady talus climb to the summit (Class 2). Camp at the old Big Arroyo cabin, which has a bear box. Plan four or more days and cover cars against marmots. Afternoon storms are common on the open plateau, so summit early. You need a Sequoia and Kings Canyon 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
- Remote location
- Loose rock
- High altitude
- Storms
Quests with Mount Kaweah
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Mount Kaweah
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Kaweah?
Mount Kaweah is 13,806 feet (4,208 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Mount Kaweah?
The South Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 50 miles with 14,790 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Kaweah?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the South Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Mount Kaweah?
The South Slopes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 50 miles with 14,790 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 Kaweah?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Kaweah reaches 13,806 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 Kaweah?
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 Kaweah 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