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Echo Peak #5
A Class 3 granite scramble among Tuolumne's Echo Peaks
About
Echo Peak #5 is one of roughly eleven granite summits that make up the Echo Peaks, a cluster rising above Cathedral Pass in the Cathedral Range near Tuolumne Meadows. There's no maintained trail to the top — this is a cross-country scramble for hikers comfortable with off-trail granite travel, not a stroll for casual visitors.
Getting There
Climbers typically follow the same approach used for nearby Cathedral Peak and Matthes Crest: the trail toward Budd Lake, then a cross-country push up into the Echo Peaks group itself. Expect route-finding, loose talus in places, and no signage once you leave the maintained trail.
What to Expect on the Peak
Echo Peak #5 is rated a Class 3 scramble — hands-on-rock terrain with exposure, but short of technical roped climbing. It's one of the more moderate summits in a cluster where difficulty ranges from Class 2 walk-ups to a Class 5.7 line on the hardest peaklet. From the top, the payoff is a close-up view of Cathedral Peak and the Matthes Crest ridgeline.
Before You Go
- Sturdy approach shoes and a helmet are standard for anyone scrambling in this cluster
- Some formations in the area carry seasonal raptor-nesting closures (roughly March through mid-July) — check current NPS and climbing advisories before you commit to a route
- This is a self-navigated objective best suited to experienced scramblers, not a beginner day hike
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Echo Peak #5 a hike or a climb?
It's a Class 3 scramble — hands-on-rock terrain with real exposure, but not technical roped climbing. It suits experienced off-trail hikers and scramblers rather than casual day hikers.
Where is Echo Peak #5 located?
It's one of about eleven granite peaklets in the Echo Peaks cluster, which sits above Cathedral Pass in the Cathedral Range near Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park.
How do you get to Echo Peak #5?
Most parties use the same approach as Cathedral Peak and Matthes Crest: hike the trail toward Budd Lake, then travel cross-country up into the Echo Peaks group. There's no maintained trail to the summit.
Do you need technical climbing gear for Echo Peak #5?
No rope is typically needed for the Class 3 route on Peak #5, but sturdy shoes and a helmet are standard, since the cluster includes exposed scrambling and nearby routes up to Class 5.7.
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