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- Mount Langley
14,032 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Langley
Mount Langley is a 14,032 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the New Army Pass: 22 mi, 4,934 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Langley at a glance
- Elevation14,032 ft4,276 m
- RouteNew Army PassClass 3
- Distance22 mi4,934 ft gain
- Time14+ hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the New Army Pass
From Lone Pine, CA, drive to Horseshoe Meadows and start at the Cottonwood Lakes trailhead (about 10,000 feet). The route crosses New Army Pass and climbs Langley's broad west slope; mostly Class 1–2 with a short Class 3 step near the summit. The southernmost Sierra 14er and one of the most approachable, though the 20+ mile round trip and altitude are significant. A wilderness permit is required. Many split it over two days camping at Cottonwood or Long Lakes. Afternoon storms are common. A long but non-technical high-Sierra peak.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (40–55 L)
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Whistle
Offline Maps- Compass
- Paper Map
GPS Device
Satellite Communicator
Headlamp
Power Bank
Hiking Boots
Helmet
Trekking Poles
Base Layer
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Midweight Gloves
Buff
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sleeping Bag (0°F to 20°F)
Sleeping Pad
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- High altitude
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Insects
- Altitude sickness
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Low visibility
Quests with Mount Langley
California 14ers
Lower 48 14ersPeaks near Mount Langley
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Langley?
Mount Langley is 14,032 feet (4,276 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How does Mount Langley rank among the California 14ers?
At 14,032 feet, Mount Langley is the 9th highest of the 12 California 14ers. The highest is Mount Whitney.
How hard is it to climb Mount Langley?
The New Army Pass 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: 22 miles with 4,934 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Langley?
Most people take 14+ hours round trip on the New Army Pass, covering 22 miles with 4,934 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Langley 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 helmet for Mount Langley?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the New Army Pass, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Langley?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Langley reaches 14,032 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 Langley?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 14+ hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Mount Langley?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Mount Langley?
The New Army Pass starts at about 9,950 feet, roughly 4,082 feet below the summit.
Climb Mount Langley 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