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- Trojan Peak
13,950 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Trojan Peak
Trojan Peak is a 13,950 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson Bowl: 25 mi, 9,485 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: John Fowler, CC BY 2.5
Trojan Peak at a glance
- Elevation13,950 ft4,251 m
- RouteSouthwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson BowlClass 2
- Distance25 mi9,485 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson Bowl
From Independence, drive Market Street west 4.3 miles to dirt Foothill Road and continue to the Shepherd Pass hiker trailhead (high clearance advised). Climb the Shepherd Pass Trail past Anvil Camp, then go east across Williamson Bowl to Lake Helen of Troy. Head south to the crest saddle with Mount Versteeg and follow the Southwest Ridge, or take the Northwest Face from the Williamson saddle (both Class 2 on sand and rubble). The old bighorn closure was lifted in 2010. An Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required for the usual overnight trip.
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
What to watch for
- High altitude
- Loose rock
- Remote location
- Snow near summit
Quests with Trojan Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionPeaks near Trojan Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Trojan Peak?
Trojan Peak is 13,950 feet (4,251 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Trojan Peak?
The Southwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson Bowl is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 25 miles with 9,485 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Trojan Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Southwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson Bowl, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Trojan Peak?
The Southwest Ridge via Shepherd Pass and Williamson Bowl needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 25 miles with 9,485 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
Do you need to acclimatize to climb Trojan Peak?
Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Trojan Peak reaches 13,950 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 hike Trojan 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 Trojan 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