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9,531 ft · Sierra Nevada, California

Smith Mountain

Smith Mountain is a 9,531 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the North Slope: 2 mi, 1,100 ft of gain, Class 2.

Plan this climbView Sierra Peaks Section
Smith Mountain in the Sierra Nevada, California

Photo: Michael Kwok, CC BY 2.0

Smith Mountain at a glance

  • Elevation9,531 ft2,905 m
  • RouteNorth SlopeClass 2
  • Distance2 mi1,100 ft gain
  • Time2 – 4 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia

Climbing the North Slope

From US 395, take Nine Mile Canyon Road to Kennedy Meadows and continue on Sherman Pass Road to Blackrock Station. Turn onto Fish Creek Road (21S03) for about 3.5 miles, then right on Forest Road 21S36 (signed Monache Jeep Road) to its end. Walk the old logging road about three-quarters of a mile to a motorcycle trail, follow it briefly, then leave it and climb the forested north ridge cross-country past scattered cairns. A short Class 2 scramble on lichen-covered granite reaches the top. Snow closes these roads from late fall to spring.

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

  • Route-finding difficulty
  • Storms
  • Spotty cell reception

Quests with Smith Mountain

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Smith Mountain?

Smith Mountain is 9,531 feet (2,905 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.

How hard is it to hike Smith Mountain?

The North Slope is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 2 miles with 1,100 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Smith Mountain?

Most people take 2 – 4 hours round trip on the North Slope, covering 2 miles with 1,100 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Smith Mountain?

Usually, if you are fit. The North Slope is a common first summit for hikers ready for 2 – 4 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Smith Mountain?

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 Smith Mountain 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

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