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- Mount Starr King
9,091 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Starr King
Mount Starr King is a 9,091 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Saddle: 14 mi, 4,890 ft of gain, Class 5.
Photo: docentjoyce, CC BY 2.0
Mount Starr King at a glance
- Elevation9,091 ft2,770 m
- RouteSoutheast SaddleClass 5
- Distance14 mi4,890 ft gain
- Time14 – 16 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Saddle
In Yosemite, take Glacier Point Road to the Mono Meadow trailhead. Hike to Illilouette Creek, cross by wading or on logs, and turn east toward the Ottoway Lakes for about a mile. Leave the trail and push cross-country through forest and thick manzanita to the saddle between the middle and north domes. The summit dome is two pitches of low-angle 5.4 friction with no bolts, so bring a light rack, slings and a rope for the rappels. Climbing shoes help on the slabs. An overnight trip needs a Yosemite wilderness permit, awarded by lottery 24 weeks out.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (35–55 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
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Technical climbing
- Steep exposure
- Route-finding difficulty
- Stream crossing
Quests with Mount Starr King
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Starr King?
Mount Starr King is 9,091 feet (2,770 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Mount Starr King?
The Southeast Saddle is Class 5, which means technical climbing with a rope and protection. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 14 miles with 4,890 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Starr King?
Most people take 14 – 16 hours round trip on the Southeast Saddle, covering 14 miles with 4,890 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Starr King dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and tricky route-finding. 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 Starr King?
Most parties bring one. The Southeast Saddle is Class 5, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
When is the best time to climb Mount Starr King?
The usual climbing window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Mount Starr King 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