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- Mount Tyndall
14,019 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Tyndall
Mount Tyndall is a 14,019 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Mount Tyndall Trail: 24 mi, 8,933 ft of gain, Class 3.
Mount Tyndall at a glance
- Elevation14,019 ft4,272 m
- RouteMount Tyndall TrailClass 3
- Distance24 mi8,933 ft gain
- Time16+ hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Mount Tyndall Trail
From Independence, CA, approach via the Shepherd Pass trail from Symmes Creek - a long, brutal 6,000+ foot climb to the pass. Tyndall rises just north of Shepherd Pass and is climbed via the Northwest Rib (Class 3) on generally solid granite with route-finding required. Most parties camp near Anvil Camp or the pass and often combine Tyndall with Williamson. A wilderness permit is required. The Shepherd Pass approach is the crux - hot, loose, and relentless. A rewarding Class 3 summit deep in the high country.
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
Gaiters
Helmet
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
- Steep exposure
- High altitude
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Remote location
- Stream crossing
- Altitude sickness
- Rockfall
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Low visibility
Quests with Mount Tyndall
California 14ers
Lower 48 14ersPeaks near Mount Tyndall
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Tyndall?
Mount Tyndall is 14,019 feet (4,272 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How does Mount Tyndall rank among the California 14ers?
At 14,019 feet, Mount Tyndall is the 10th highest of the 12 California 14ers. The highest is Mount Whitney.
How hard is it to climb Mount Tyndall?
The Mount Tyndall Trail 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: 24 miles with 8,933 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Mount Tyndall?
Most people take 16+ hours round trip on the Mount Tyndall Trail, covering 24 miles with 8,933 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Mount Tyndall 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 Tyndall?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Mount Tyndall Trail, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Mount Tyndall?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Mount Tyndall reaches 14,019 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 Tyndall?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 16+ hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Mount Tyndall?
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 Tyndall?
The Mount Tyndall Trail starts at about 6,320 feet, roughly 7,699 feet below the summit.
Climb Mount Tyndall 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