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- Tower Peak
11,747 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Tower Peak
Tower Peak is an 11,747 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the North Ridge and Northwest Chute: 35 mi, 6,125 ft of gain, Class 3.
Photo: HW
Tower Peak at a glance
- Elevation11,747 ft3,580 m
- RouteNorth Ridge and Northwest ChuteClass 3
- Distance35 mi6,125 ft gain
- Time3 – 4 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the North Ridge and Northwest Chute
From Bridgeport, drive US 395 north to Sonora Junction and Highway 108 west about six miles to the Leavitt Meadows trailhead. Cross the West Walker River bridge and follow the trail south past Piute Meadows to Tower Lake, about 16 miles. Climb to Tower Pass, follow the north ridge on solid granite and work west around the towers into a staircase chute for a Class 3 finish. Snowfields linger below the pass and along the ridge early in the season. Most parties take three or four days. Overnight trips need a Hoover Wilderness permit, with a summer quota at this trailhead, and a bear canister.
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
What to watch for
- Remote location
- Snow near summit
- Steep exposure
- Stream crossing
- Storms
Quests with Tower Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Tower Peak?
Tower Peak is 11,747 feet (3,580 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Tower Peak?
The North Ridge and Northwest Chute is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 35 miles with 6,125 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Tower Peak?
Most climbers plan 3 – 4 days for the North Ridge and Northwest Chute, with at least one night on the mountain.
Is Tower Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and fast-changing weather. 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 helmet for Tower Peak?
It is a good idea. The scrambling has rock overhead on the North Ridge and Northwest Chute, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb Tower Peak?
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 Tower 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