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Merced Peak
The Clark Range's highest summit, deep in Yosemite's southern backcountry
About
Merced Peak tops out at just over 11,700 feet, the highest point in the Clark Range along Yosemite's southern boundary. This isn't a roadside overlook — it's a genuine backcountry objective, reached only after days of hiking, and it carries real history: in 1871 John Muir found an active alpine glacier tucked below the peak, evidence that helped convince skeptics that Yosemite Valley itself was carved by ice.
Getting There
Most parties approach from the Mono Meadow trailhead near Glacier Point Road, backpacking in to Ottoway Lakes as a base camp — a trip of roughly 16 miles or more one-way, typically planned over several days. An alternate approach comes from outside the park via the Quartz Mountain trailhead and Chiquito Pass. Lower Ottoway Lake sits below the peak's north face and makes a solid staging point for a summit attempt.
The Climb
The standard route follows the Northeast Ridge from Snow Pass, an off-trail Class 2 scramble — no ropes needed, but real routefinding and scrambling skill required. Parties looking for more engagement can stay closer to the ridge crest for scrappy Class 3 sections with some exposure.
Permits
Any overnight stay in Yosemite's wilderness requires a wilderness permit, reservable through Recreation.gov well in advance or picked up as a walk-up. Camping is restricted near Glacier Point Road and Glacier Point itself, so plan your first night's site accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is it to climb Merced Peak?
The standard Northeast Ridge route from Snow Pass is a Class 2 scramble — steep, off-trail, and requiring solid routefinding, but no technical climbing gear. Staying near the ridge crest adds some Class 3 moves with exposure for those who want more of a challenge.
Do I need a permit to hike to Merced Peak?
Yes. Since reaching the peak requires an overnight backpacking trip, you need a Yosemite wilderness permit, which can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov or picked up as a walk-up the day before or day of your trip.
What's the best trailhead for Merced Peak?
Most hikers start at the Mono Meadow trailhead off Glacier Point Road and backpack in to Ottoway Lakes as a base camp before summiting. An alternate route approaches from outside the park via the Quartz Mountain trailhead and Chiquito Pass.
How long is the hike to Merced Peak?
Plan on a multi-day trip. The backpack in to Ottoway Lakes alone runs roughly 16 miles or more one-way, and most parties budget several days total for the approach, a summit day, and the hike back out.
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