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- Red Kaweah
13,821 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Red Kaweah
Red Kaweah is a 13,821 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo: 46 mi, 14,110 ft of gain, Class 3.
Photo: Martin Bravenboer, CC BY 4.0
Red Kaweah at a glance
- Elevation13,821 ft4,212 m
- RouteNorthwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big ArroyoClass 3
- Distance46 mi14,110 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo
From Three Rivers, drive Mineral King Road (seasonal, late May to October) to the Sawtooth trailhead and backpack over Sawtooth Pass to the Big Arroyo cabin. Climb north into the cirque above Lake 11,795 and take the chutes northwest of the summit, mostly loose Class 2 scree. The summit ridge adds a Class 3 block. Return the same way, since cliffs guard other lines. Wear a helmet and keep parties small. Wrap cars against marmots. You need a Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness permit for the trip.
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
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Rockfall
- Remote location
- Storms
Quests with Red Kaweah
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Red Kaweah
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Red Kaweah?
Red Kaweah is 13,821 feet (4,212 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Red Kaweah?
The Northwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo 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: 46 miles with 14,110 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Red Kaweah?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Northwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Red Kaweah dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: 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 Red Kaweah?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Northwest Chutes via Sawtooth Pass and Big Arroyo, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Red Kaweah?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Red Kaweah reaches 13,821 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 Red Kaweah?
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 Red Kaweah 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