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- Rodgers Peak
12,990 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Rodgers Peak
Rodgers Peak is a 12,990 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge via Davis Lakes: 27 mi, 9,240 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Howard Weamer
Rodgers Peak at a glance
- Elevation12,990 ft3,959 m
- RouteSoutheast Ridge via Davis LakesClass 2
- Distance27 mi9,240 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Ridge via Davis Lakes
From US 395 at June Lake Junction, drive the June Lake Loop (CA 158) to the Rush Creek trailhead at Silver Lake. Climb the Rush Creek Trail past Gem and Waugh Lakes to the PCT, then take the Davis Lakes spur. Cross a pass west of the lakes into the North Fork San Joaquin headwaters and follow the broad southeast ridge on Class 2 talus to the summit. The west side of the pass is steep and loose, and a Class 3 chute above Marie Lakes is the alternative. Electra is a common add-on. Overnight trips need an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit, booked up to six months out.
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
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Remote location
- Route-finding difficulty
- Storms
Quests with Rodgers Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Rodgers Peak?
Rodgers Peak is 12,990 feet (3,959 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Rodgers Peak?
The Southeast Ridge via Davis Lakes is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 27 miles with 9,240 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Rodgers Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Southeast Ridge via Davis Lakes, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Rodgers Peak?
The Southeast Ridge via Davis Lakes needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 27 miles with 9,240 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Rodgers Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Rodgers Peak reaches 12,990 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 hike Rodgers Peak?
The usual hiking window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Rodgers 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