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- The Hermit
12,349 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
The Hermit
The Hermit is a 12,349 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the From Evolution Lake: 25 mi, 9,320 ft of gain, Class 5.
The Hermit at a glance
- Elevation12,349 ft3,763 m
- RouteFrom Evolution LakeClass 5
- Distance25 mi9,320 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysExtreme effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the From Evolution Lake
From Bishop, take Highway 168 west to North Lake Road and park in the hiker lot below the campground. Cross Lamarck Col on the use trail, then descend Darwin Canyon and Darwin Bench to the John Muir Trail at Evolution Lake. From near the lake, climb a loose Class 3 gully and chute to the saddle between the two summits. The final summit block is a short Class 5 climb (about 5.6 to 5.8), usually done by tossing a rope over the top for a belay. Bring a light rope, harness and helmet. Plan two or three days with an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit, reserved up to six months ahead.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 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
Helmet
Harness
Rope
Belay Device
Carabiners
What to watch for
- Technical climbing
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Remote location
Quests with The Hermit
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near The Hermit
Frequently asked questions
How tall is The Hermit?
The Hermit is 12,349 feet (3,763 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb The Hermit?
The From Evolution Lake is Class 5, which means technical climbing with a rope and protection. Yak rates the overall effort extreme: 25 miles with 9,320 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb The Hermit?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the From Evolution Lake, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is The Hermit dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and rockfall from loose rock. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a rope to climb The Hermit?
Most parties bring one. The From Evolution Lake is Class 5, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb The Hermit?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and The Hermit reaches 12,349 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
When is the best time to climb The Hermit?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb The Hermit 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