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- Split Mountain
14,064 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Split Mountain
Split Mountain is a 14,064 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the North Slope: 11 mi, 7,417 ft of gain, Class 2.
Split Mountain at a glance
- Elevation14,064 ft4,286 m
- RouteNorth SlopeClass 2
- Distance11 mi7,417 ft gain
- Time10 - 14 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the North Slope
From near Big Pine, CA, drive the rough Red Lake road (high-clearance recommended) to the trailhead. The trail climbs steeply to Red Lake (about 10,400 feet), where most parties camp, then up the North Slope over talus and scree to the saddle between Split's twin summits. Straightforward but strenuous, with a long, loose final slope. A wilderness permit is required; the approach road and trail are notoriously steep and hot. Technically one of the easier Sierra 14ers, but access and gain make it a solid two-day outing.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (40–55 L)
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Whistle
Offline Maps- Compass
- Paper Map
GPS Device
Satellite Communicator
Headlamp
Power Bank
Hiking Boots
Gaiters
Helmet
Trekking Poles
Base Layer
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Midweight Gloves
Buff
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sleeping Bag (0°F to 20°F)
Sleeping Pad
What to watch for
- High altitude
- High winds
- Loose rock
- Storms
- Remote location
- Dry conditions
- Altitude sickness
- Steep exposure
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
Quests with Split Mountain
California 14ers
Lower 48 14ersPeaks near Split Mountain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Split Mountain?
Split Mountain is 14,064 feet (4,286 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How does Split Mountain rank among the California 14ers?
At 14,064 feet, Split Mountain is the 8th highest of the 12 California 14ers. The highest is Mount Whitney.
How hard is it to hike Split 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 very hard: 11 miles with 7,417 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Split Mountain?
Most people take 10 - 14 hours round trip on the North Slope, covering 11 miles with 7,417 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Can a beginner hike Split Mountain?
The North Slope needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard day: 11 miles with 7,417 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
Do you need a helmet for Split Mountain?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the North Slope, so a helmet is on the gear list.
Will you get altitude sickness on Split Mountain?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Split Mountain reaches 14,064 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
What time should you start hiking Split Mountain?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 - 14 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to hike Split Mountain?
The usual hiking window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Split Mountain?
The North Slope starts at about 6,630 feet, roughly 7,434 feet below the summit.
Climb Split 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