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- Sierra Buttes
8,612 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Sierra Buttes
Sierra Buttes is an 8,612 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Sierra Buttes Trail: 4 mi, 1,630 ft of gain, Class 1.
Sierra Buttes at a glance
- Elevation8,612 ft2,624 m
- RouteSierra Buttes TrailClass 1
- Distance4 mi1,630 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Sierra Buttes Trail
From Sierra City, drive Highway 49 east to Bassetts, take Gold Lake Highway north to Packer Lake Road, and follow it past Packer Lake to Packer Saddle. Turn onto Forest Road 93-2 and park at the gated lot a quarter mile on. The Sierra Buttes Trail climbs an old roadbed, crosses the Pacific Crest Trail, then switchbacks up a jeep road to the lookout. The last stretch is a steep metal staircase with open grating and a big drop below. The route is Class 1 but steep throughout. Carry water, since there is none on the route. Snow lingers into early summer.
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
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- High winds
- Dry conditions
- Snow near summit
Quests with Sierra Buttes
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Sierra Buttes?
Sierra Buttes is 8,612 feet (2,624 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Sierra Buttes?
The Sierra Buttes Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 4 miles with 1,630 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Sierra Buttes?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the Sierra Buttes Trail, covering 4 miles with 1,630 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Sierra Buttes?
Usually, if you are fit. The Sierra Buttes Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 3 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Sierra Buttes?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Sierra Buttes 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