- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Sierra Peaks Section
- Volunteer Peak
10,485 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Volunteer Peak
Volunteer Peak is a 10,485 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Southwest Slope via Rodgers Lake Trail: 46 mi, 7,980 ft of gain, Class 2.
Volunteer Peak at a glance
- Elevation10,485 ft3,195 m
- RouteSouthwest Slope via Rodgers Lake TrailClass 2
- Distance46 mi7,980 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 daysVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Southwest Slope via Rodgers Lake Trail
From Bridgeport, drive Twin Lakes Road to Mono Village at road end, which charges a Mono Village parking fee. Backpack the Robinson Creek trail past Barney and Peeler Lakes, through Kerrick Meadow and over Seavey Pass on the Pacific Crest Trail. Below the sheer face of Volunteer, take the Rodgers Lake trail south, then climb the basin on the southwest side to the saddle south of the summit and scramble Class 2 to the top. Most parties pair it with Pettit and Piute on a four to six day trip from a camp near Benson Lake. A Hoover Wilderness permit is required. Expect mosquitoes in early summer.
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
- Remote location
- Stream crossing
- Insects
- Storms
Quests with Volunteer Peak
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Volunteer Peak?
Volunteer Peak is 10,485 feet (3,195 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to hike Volunteer Peak?
The Southwest Slope via Rodgers Lake Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 46 miles with 7,980 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Volunteer Peak?
Most climbers plan 4 – 6 days for the Southwest Slope via Rodgers Lake Trail, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Volunteer Peak?
The Southwest Slope via Rodgers Lake Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a very hard trip: 46 miles with 7,980 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 Volunteer 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 Volunteer 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