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- Sawtooth Peak
7,978 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Sawtooth Peak
Sawtooth Peak is a 7,978 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southwest Slope and Trail: 8 mi, 2,445 ft of gain, Class 2.
Sawtooth Peak at a glance
- Elevation7,978 ft2,431 m
- RouteSouthwest Slope and TrailClass 2
- Distance8 mi2,445 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonOct – Apr
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southwest Slope and Trail
From CA 178 west of Walker Pass, drive north on Canebrake Road to Chimney Creek Campground and park there, then walk back to the unmarked PCT crossing. Follow the PCT about 3 miles up the canyon above Lamont Meadow to a saddle on the crest. Leave the trail and climb the steep, sandy ridge directly north, then follow it northeast through pinyon and boulders to the summit (Class 2). Stay on the north side of the ridge to avoid thick brush. A canyon to the southwest makes a scenic Class 2 descent back to the PCT. There is no reliable water.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 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
- Dry conditions
- Loose rock
- Route-finding difficulty
- Rattlesnakes
Quests with Sawtooth Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Sawtooth Peak?
Sawtooth Peak is 7,978 feet (2,431 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Sawtooth Peak?
The Southwest Slope and Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 8 miles with 2,445 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Sawtooth Peak?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Southwest Slope and Trail, covering 8 miles with 2,445 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Sawtooth Peak?
Usually, if you are fit. The Southwest Slope and Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Sawtooth Peak?
The usual hiking window is October to April. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Sawtooth 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