Western Route

Page Type Page Type: Route
Location Lat/Lon: 38.20580°N / 119.7091°W
Additional Information Route Type: Hike/Scramble
Additional Information Time Required: Half a day
Additional Information Difficulty: Class II
Sign the Climber's Log

Approach

The western route follows the ridge that runs between Blawkhawk Mountain and Granite Dome. The ridge can be easily accessed from Lewis Lakes on the northern side, or Wilson Meadow Lake on the south side of the ridge. The nearest trailhead is Kennedy Meadows resort off of the Sonora Pass. Lewis Lakes are about 8 miles from the trailhead.

Route Description

The western ridgeline can be made by a moderately easy climb from either Wilson Meadow Lake or the Lewis Lakes. It is mostly Class II, with a fair amount of up and down scrambling as the ridge is anything but flat until the final 100 yards.

The route from Upper Lewis Lake crosses the north shore of Upper Lewis Lake. Head southeast over rising granite slabs that offer spectacular views of Middle Lewis Lake 500 ft below. Continue southeast until you reach a small tarn with crystal clear water. It's a good place to refill your bottles.

Climb the ridge line to the south-southeast, past boulders and more granite slabs until you reach the apex of the ridge. The summit should be visible. Follow the ridgeline to the east and then turn northeast for the final 100 yard ascent, which is an easy walk up over loose gravel and rock.

Essential Gear

Crampons, ice ax, rope, cc skiis and/or snowshoes may be required during the winter and spring. No special equipment is needed during the summer other than for overnight backcountry camping.


Parents 

Parents

Parents refers to a larger category under which an object falls. For example, theAconcagua mountain page has the 'Aconcagua Group' and the 'Seven Summits' asparents and is a parent itself to many routes, photos, and Trip Reports.