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10,778 ft · Sierra Nevada, Nevada

Mount Rose

Mount Rose is a 10,778 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, Nevada. The standard route is the Mount Rose Summit Trail: 10 mi, 1,955 ft of gain, Class 1.

Mount Rose in the Sierra Nevada, Nevada

Mount Rose at a glance

  • Elevation10,778 ft3,285 m
  • RouteMount Rose Summit TrailClass 1
  • Distance10 mi1,955 ft gain
  • Time6 – 8 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeSierra NevadaNevada

Climbing the Mount Rose Summit Trail

From Reno, drive Nevada 431 (Mount Rose Highway) toward Lake Tahoe to the Mount Rose Summit trailhead and rest area, about a mile below the highway summit. The trail follows the Tahoe Rim Trail to Galena Falls, then climbs through meadows and switchbacks to a saddle and up the open summit ridge. The route is Class 1. The upper miles are above treeline and exposed to wind, cold, and fast-moving storms, so carry layers. The lot fills early on weekends, and car break-ins have been reported. Snow often covers the switchbacks into June.

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

What to watch for

  • High winds
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Cold summit conditions
  • High altitude

Quests with Mount Rose

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Mount Rose?

Mount Rose is 10,778 feet (3,285 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, Nevada.

How hard is it to hike Mount Rose?

The Mount Rose Summit Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 10 miles with 1,955 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Mount Rose?

Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Mount Rose Summit Trail, covering 10 miles with 1,955 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Mount Rose?

Usually, if you are fit. The Mount Rose Summit Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 6 – 8 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Mount Rose?

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 Rose 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