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- Mount Russell
14,094 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Russell
Mount Russell is a 14,094 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the East Ridge: 8 mi, 5,725 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Russell at a glance
- Elevation14,094 ft4,295 m
- RouteEast RidgeClass 3
- Distance8 mi5,725 ft gain
- Time7 – 9 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the East Ridge
From Lone Pine, CA, drive to Whitney Portal and hike toward Upper Boy Scout Lake (the Mountaineers Route approach). Just north of Whitney, Russell is climbed via the East Ridge - a spectacular, airy Class 3 arete with big exposure but solid rock. The cross-country approach and the notch below the ridge require route-finding. A wilderness permit is required for overnights. Frequently paired with Mount Carillon or Whitney's Mountaineers Route. Start early for weather. A quality ridge scramble with one of the best summits in the range.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
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
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- High altitude
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Altitude sickness
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Low visibility
- Remote location
Quests with Mount Russell
California 14ers
Lower 48 14ersPeaks near Mount Russell
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Russell?
Mount Russell is 14,094 feet (4,295 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How does Mount Russell rank among the California 14ers?
At 14,094 feet, Mount Russell is the 7th highest of the 12 California 14ers. The highest is Mount Whitney.
How hard is it to climb Mount Russell?
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: 8 miles with 5,725 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Russell?
Most people take 7 – 9 hours round trip on the East Ridge, covering 8 miles with 5,725 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Is Mount Russell 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 Russell?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the East Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Russell?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Russell reaches 14,094 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 Russell?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.
When is the best time to climb Mount Russell?
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 Russell?
The East Ridge starts at about 8,330 feet, roughly 5,764 feet below the summit.
Climb Mount Russell 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