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- Norman Clyde Peak
13,965 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Norman Clyde Peak
Norman Clyde Peak is a 13,965 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the North-Northeast Ridge: 13 mi, 6,455 ft of gain, Class 4.
Norman Clyde Peak at a glance
- Elevation13,965 ft4,256 m
- RouteNorth-Northeast RidgeClass 4
- Distance13 mi6,455 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the North-Northeast Ridge
From Big Pine, drive Glacier Lodge Road west to the Big Pine Creek trailhead at road's end, using the lower lot for overnight parking. Hike the South Fork Trail toward Brainerd Lake and use trails to Finger Lake, then go cross-country to camps below the Middle Palisade Glacier moraines. Gain the low point of the ridge northeast of the peak, follow it until it steepens, then climb the face right of the crest on Class 3 to a Class 4 crack and chimney below the summit. Many parties bring a short rope for that pitch and the descent. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required for overnight trips.
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
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Technical climbing
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- High altitude
Quests with Norman Clyde Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Norman Clyde Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Norman Clyde Peak?
Norman Clyde Peak is 13,965 feet (4,256 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Norman Clyde Peak?
The North-Northeast Ridge is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 13 miles with 6,455 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Norman Clyde Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the North-Northeast Ridge, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Norman Clyde Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. 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 Norman Clyde Peak?
Most parties bring one. The North-Northeast Ridge is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Norman Clyde Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Norman Clyde Peak reaches 13,965 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 Norman Clyde Peak?
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 Norman Clyde Peak 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