Mount Clark

Mount Clark rises to 11,527 feet at the north end of the Clark Range in southern Yosemite, its narrow granite ridge earning it the nickname "the Obelisk." Named for Galen Clark, Yosemite's first guardian, this is a backcountry mountaineering objective, not a casual day hike, and it rewards hikers who come prepared for off-trail travel and real elevation gain.

Getting There

Two approaches lead to the peak. The Mono Meadow Trailhead, off Glacier Point Road, is the shorter route but involves more cross-country navigation once the maintained trail ends. The Happy Isles Trailhead in Yosemite Valley covers more distance and roughly 1,600 additional feet of climbing, but stays on established trail longer before the off-trail stretch begins.

What to Expect

Budget for a multi-day trip: total elevation gain runs around 7,500 feet over comparable mileage, and the final push to the summit involves Class 2-3 scrambling (some parties report short Class 4 moves). A Yosemite wilderness permit is required for any overnight stay in the backcountry. The best window to attempt Mount Clark is May through October, once snow has cleared from the higher approaches.

Who Should Go

• Experienced backcountry hikers comfortable with off-trail route-finding and scrambling
• Parties planning an overnight or multi-day itinerary with a wilderness permit already in hand
• Not recommended as a first backcountry trip or a single-day outing