SE Ridge from Mosquito Pass trail

Approach

Start from the Kennedy Meadows resort, and follow the trail past Relief Reservoir through Saucer Meadow and Lunch Meadow to the intersection with the Mosquito Pass trail (signposted for Emigrant Lake).

Route Description

Although not the shortest route to the summit, this may be the easiest. It offers straightforward route-finding, especially for a first visit, and no particular obstacles to overcome. From the trailhead to the summit via this route is 12-13 miles, with about 4400' of gain. (There's an additional 400' of gain to look forward to on the return).

Follow the Mosquito Pass (Emigrant Lake) trail up from Lunch Meadow until you reach a small tarn on your right, near the top of the switchbacks. Leave the trail here, and head SW to a small saddle at the head of the Buck Meadow Creek drainage. (Alternatively, you can follow the trail to the pass and head due west from there). The hiking here is easy, alongside a small stream and through granite and open meadows. A snow bank covers the north side of the saddle throughout even mid-season, but it's low angle enough to be crossed without problems.

From the saddle, follow the obvious class 1 ridge, passing a couple of false summits along the way. The true summit is a rather nondescript brown hill along that ridgeline.

Essential Gear

Nothing in summer.