Mt. Williamson (14,375 feet) is the second highest peak in California behind Mt. Whitney (14,505 feet). The few feet it lacks in elevation it more than makes up for in difficulty and the work involved to climb it. There are no easy ways up this peak, nor are there any easy ways up Mt. Tyndall (14,015 feet), Williamson’s neighbor just to the west. The good news is that both these peaks are much less often climbed than their higher companion to the south (Whitney) and both offer astounding views and an enjoyable amount of moderate mountaineering. Mt. Williamson’s west face route is primarily class two and three, but just below the summit plateau, a short steep headwall blocks the way. A short rope length takes us through this and on to the summit. We descend the same way.

Mt. Tyndall is a far more graceful peak than its neighbor and our chosen route, the Northwest Ridge, is a perfect fourth class ridge. Often in the Sierra, the easier routes tend to be loose and mainly covered in talus. This ridge, however, offers great scrambling over huge blocks and narrow ridge traverses on wonderful rock.

Prerequisites

Technical climbing skills are not required but prior backpacking experience is required as is experience at altitudes above 12,000’. This is a physically demanding trip and you should be in good condition and have the ability to traverse broken uneven slopes with a moderately heavy pack.

Inclusions

Price includes guiding, permits, group climbing gear, tents, kitchen gear, breakfasts, and dinners (you bring lunches, hot/cold drinks, and snack items).

Acclimatization & Physical Training

For proper acclimatization, we suggest spending at least one night at a moderate altitude, higher than 8,000 feet, just prior to the start of the journey. See our detailed tips on acclimatizing an physical training in the “Resources” tab.