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- Round Top
10,383 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Round Top
Round Top is a 10,383 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Lost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit Block: 6 mi, 2,470 ft of gain, Class 3.
Photo: Carleton Watkins
Round Top at a glance
- Elevation10,383 ft3,164 m
- RouteLost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit BlockClass 3
- Distance6 mi2,470 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Lost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit Block
From Jackson, drive Highway 88 east nearly to Carson Pass and turn south on Woods Lake Road to the trailhead lot. The Lost Cabin Mine Trail climbs past old mine ruins to Round Top Lake, then a use trail goes up loose slopes to the saddle on the east side of the peak. The final Class 3 scramble up the exposed summit block is steep and loose in places. Snow lingers in the north-facing gullies into July. Expect high winds on the crest and crowds at Round Top Lake on summer weekends. The Woods Lake day-use parking fee applies.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 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
- Steep exposure
- High winds
- Snow near summit
Quests with Round Top
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Round Top?
Round Top is 10,383 feet (3,164 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Round Top?
The Lost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit Block is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 6 miles with 2,470 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Round Top?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Lost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit Block, covering 6 miles with 2,470 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Is Round Top 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 Round Top?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Lost Cabin Mine Trail and East Summit Block, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb Round Top?
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 Round Top 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