Mount Silliman

Mount Silliman is a mountain summit in Sequoia National Park standing at approximately 11,200 feet with distinctive black-streaked granite formations on its plateau. Ancient foxtail pines grow near the peak, creating a striking appearance against the rocky terrain.

The first recorded ascent of the peak took place in 1864 as part of early surveying expeditions exploring the Sierra Nevada. This climb was among the pioneering missions that mapped and documented the high mountains of California.

The mountain takes its name from Benjamin Silliman, a Yale chemistry professor whose student William Brewer participated in early surveying expeditions of the Sierra Nevada. The name reflects the scientific exploration of this mountain region in the 1800s.

The hike begins from Lodgepole Campground and follows the Twin Lakes Trail across granite slabs and rocky terrain in a moderate to challenging style. Visitors should expect to climb over exposed rock sections and prepare for high-altitude conditions.

An ancient grove of foxtail pines makes this peak a botanical interest, as this tree species grows in only a few areas of the Sierra Nevada. From the summit, views extend down into Kings Canyon and across the surrounding mountain range.