Hiking / Backpacking: Split Mountain via North Ridge

At 14,058 feet, Split Mountain is one of the California fourteeners. The North Ridge is the most common route, with an Eastern Approach via Red Lake and a Western Approach via the John Muir Trail.

A 12.5-mile dirt road leads to Red Lake Trailhead. The often times steep trail follows Red Mountain Creek on the right side of the canyon. From Red Lake, the route leads up to the saddle between Split Mountain and Mount Tinemaha. A ridge continues to lead up to the saddle between Split Mountain and Mount Prater (class 3 rubble and talus at the top). From here, Split Mountain North Ridge leads up to the summit.

A permit is required.