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- Stanislaus Peak
11,230 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Stanislaus Peak
Stanislaus Peak is an 11,230 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge via Saint Marys Pass: 8 mi, 3,325 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Kylelovesyou
Stanislaus Peak at a glance
- Elevation11,230 ft3,422 m
- RouteSoutheast Ridge via Saint Marys PassClass 2
- Distance8 mi3,325 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southeast Ridge via Saint Marys Pass
From Sonora, drive Highway 108 east to the Saint Marys Pass trailhead on the north side of the road, just under a mile west of Sonora Pass. Climb the trail to Saint Marys Pass, then follow the path north across open volcanic slopes to the saddle on the south side of the peak. From there, climb the steep southeast ridge over scree and talus, finishing with a short Class 2 scramble to the flat, tile-like summit rocks. Wind is constant on the crest and there is no water above the pass. Snow lingers on the upper slopes into July. Marines train in this area.
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
- High winds
- Loose rock
- High altitude
- Storms
Quests with Stanislaus Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Stanislaus Peak?
Stanislaus Peak is 11,230 feet (3,422 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Stanislaus Peak?
The Southeast Ridge via Saint Marys Pass is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 8 miles with 3,325 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Stanislaus Peak?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Southeast Ridge via Saint Marys Pass, covering 8 miles with 3,325 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Stanislaus Peak?
The Southeast Ridge via Saint Marys Pass needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 8 miles with 3,325 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
What time should you start hiking Stanislaus Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.
When is the best time to hike Stanislaus Peak?
The usual hiking window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Stanislaus 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