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- Mount Ruskin
12,912 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Ruskin
Mount Ruskin is a 12,912 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the East Ridge: 37 mi, 11,905 ft of gain, Class 3.
Photo: Will Keightley, CC BY-SA 2.0
Mount Ruskin at a glance
- Elevation12,912 ft3,935 m
- RouteEast RidgeClass 3
- Distance37 mi11,905 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the East Ridge
From US 395 about 12 miles south of Big Pine, drive Taboose Creek Road about 6 rough dirt miles to its end. The Taboose Pass Trail climbs a hot, shadeless canyon to the crest, then drops into the upper South Fork Kings, where the old Cartridge Pass trail leads to the lakes below Ruskin. The East Ridge is Class 3 on solid ledges with steady exposure, and an overhang near the top is passed on the north side (many call that move Class 4). Plan three or more days. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required; reserve on Recreation.gov up to six months out.
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
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Remote location
- High altitude
- Storms
Quests with Mount Ruskin
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Mount Ruskin
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Ruskin?
Mount Ruskin is 12,912 feet (3,935 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Mount Ruskin?
The East Ridge 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: 37 miles with 11,905 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Mount Ruskin?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the East Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Mount Ruskin 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 Ruskin?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the East Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Mount Ruskin?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Ruskin reaches 12,912 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 Ruskin?
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 Ruskin 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