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- Mount Sill
14,159 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Sill
Mount Sill is a 14,159 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Swiss Arete: 14 mi, 6,866 ft of gain, Class 4.
Mount Sill at a glance
- Elevation14,159 ft4,315 m
- RouteSwiss AreteClass 4
- Distance14 mi6,866 ft gain
- Time10+ hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonAug – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Swiss Arete
From Big Pine, CA, approach via the South Fork of Big Pine Creek to a camp near Elinore Lake or the Palisade basin. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required, with an overnight quota reserved on Recreation.gov, so apply early. The Swiss Arete (Class 4 with low fifth-class moves) is the classic line, a clean, exposed ridge with excellent rock and stunning position over the Palisades. Most parties rope up and carry a light rack. Approaches are long with cross-country talus travel. Best in late summer once snow clears, and often combined with other Palisade peaks.
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
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
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
- Technical climbing
- Steep exposure
- High altitude
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Remote location
- Altitude sickness
- Rockfall
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Low visibility
Quests with Mount Sill
California 14ers
Lower 48 14ersPeaks near Mount Sill
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Sill?
Mount Sill is 14,159 feet (4,315 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How does Mount Sill rank among the California 14ers?
At 14,159 feet, Mount Sill is the 6th highest of the 12 California 14ers. The highest is Mount Whitney.
How hard is it to climb Mount Sill?
The Swiss Arete is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 14 miles with 6,866 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Sill?
Most people take 10+ hours round trip on the Swiss Arete, covering 14 miles with 6,866 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Sill 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 rope to climb Mount Sill?
Most parties bring one. The Swiss Arete is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Sill?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Sill reaches 14,159 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 Sill?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10+ hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Mount Sill?
The usual climbing window is August 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 Sill?
The Swiss Arete starts at about 7,800 feet, roughly 6,359 feet below the summit.
Climb Mount Sill 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