SE Ridge

Approach

From Silver Lake, follow the popular Rush Creek trail past Gem Lake and Waugh Lake to its intersection with the Pacific Crest Trail. Take the PCT a short way south to a signed trail junction for Davis Lakes. From this trail junction, hike to the lower Davis Lake. A few minutes of easy cross-country walking lead to upper Davis Lake, which is passed on its north/west side.

From Davis Lakes, your objective is the unnamed lake at the head of the North Fork of the San Joaquin (Lake 3400+, 3/4 mile due east of Rodgers Peak). There are several possible passes that lead into the North Fork drainage from Davis Lakes. The most direct route ascends talus slopes on the right side of the glacier due west of Upper Davis Lake (Pass 3540+); this is easy class 1-2 on the east side, but steeper and looser on the west side (more like class 3). The next pass to the south (named by Secor as Clinch Pass, Pass 3500+) requires less elevation gain and is class 2, but it consists of much steep, loose talus that makes for tedious going.

Route Description

From Lake 3400+, head west and then southwest past the permanent snowfield to gain the SE Ridge. Follow the easy, broad ridge to the summit. There are no particular route-finding difficulties.

Although both Roper and Secor rate this route as class 2-3, the class 3 sections are straightforward, and appear to be easily bypassed if one were so inclined. Most people will prefer to seek out the short third class bits just to break the monotony of the surrounding talus.

This is probably the quickest route to the summit.

Essential Gear

None required during summer/fall. Axe/crampons may be necessary in early season.

Images

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