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Triple Divide Peak
A remote Class 3 scramble where three Sierra watersheds meet
About
Triple Divide Peak climbs to 11,616 feet on the boundary between Yosemite National Park and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, in the Clark Range just south of Merced Peak. The name marks its real claim to fame: this ridge is the point where three river systems begin, the Merced, the South Fork Merced, and the San Joaquin all trace their headwaters here. There's no maintained trail to the top. Reaching the summit means a long cross-country approach through high, remote country followed by a Class 3 scramble on the final pitch.
Getting there
Access starts at the Quartz Mountain Trailhead in Sierra National Forest, which climbs to Chiquito Pass at the Yosemite boundary. Almost nobody hikes Triple Divide Peak alone — most parties link it with nearby Merced Peak and Edna Peak on a single trip, with reported round trips of roughly 20 miles or more and thousands of feet of elevation gain. Treat it as an overnight backpack, not a day hike.
Who it's for
This is a destination for experienced off-trail hikers comfortable with route-finding, exposure, and multi-day travel at altitude, not a casual outing. Mountaineer Norman Clyde made the first recorded ascent in 1920. Anyone who makes the summit is rewarded with views across the Clark Range toward Mount Lyell, Mount Ritter, and Mount Clark, with none of the crowds found on Yosemite's more famous peaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a maintained trail to the summit of Triple Divide Peak?
No. Access follows a cross-country route from the Quartz Mountain Trailhead area, and the final section to the summit is a Class 3 scramble over rock, not a graded trail.
How hard is the climb?
The standard route is rated Class 3, meaning hands-on scrambling with real exposure but no ropes or technical climbing gear. It's suited to experienced hikers, not beginners.
Can Triple Divide Peak be done as a day hike?
Very fit, experienced parties sometimes push it in a day, but most hikers combine it with nearby Merced Peak on a round trip of 20-plus miles and camp overnight given the remote approach.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. The approach crosses wilderness managed by Yosemite and the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and any overnight backpacking trip requires a wilderness permit reserved through Recreation.gov.
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