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- Virginia Peak
11,983 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Virginia Peak
Virginia Peak is an 11,983 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Northeast Ridge via Virginia Canyon: 18 mi, 5,790 ft of gain, Class 2.
Virginia Peak at a glance
- Elevation11,983 ft3,652 m
- RouteNortheast Ridge via Virginia CanyonClass 2
- Distance18 mi5,790 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Northeast Ridge via Virginia Canyon
From Lee Vining, drive US 395 north to Conway Summit and take Virginia Lakes Road to the trailhead at road end. Hike past Blue, Cooney and Frog Lakes, cross the saddle above them, descend to the Green Creek trail and continue past Summit Lake into Yosemite. Leave the trail in upper Virginia Canyon, climb benches and talus to the col north of the peak, then follow the northeast ridge, Class 2 with a few Class 3 moves. The Green Creek trailhead via Virginia Pass is a shorter option. Most parties camp near Summit Lake or in the canyon, which needs a Hoover Wilderness permit 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
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Route-finding difficulty
- Remote location
- Storms
Quests with Virginia Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Virginia Peak?
Virginia Peak is 11,983 feet (3,652 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Virginia Peak?
The Northeast Ridge via Virginia Canyon is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 18 miles with 5,790 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Virginia Peak?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the Northeast Ridge via Virginia Canyon, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Virginia Peak?
The Northeast Ridge via Virginia Canyon needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 18 miles with 5,790 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
When is the best time to hike Virginia 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 Virginia 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