Mount Williamson

Mount Williamson is a granite summit in California's Sierra Nevada range, standing at 14,410 feet (4,390 meters). It ranks as the state's second highest peak and is easily visible from the Inyo County valleys below.

The peak was named in the 1800s after Lieutenant Robert Stockton Williamson, a surveyor who mapped railroad routes across Southern California. His work on Pacific Railroad surveys contributed to transportation planning through the Sierra Nevada.

The mountain belongs to the Sierra Peaks Section Peaks List, drawing numerous mountaineers who aim to complete all peaks on this register.

The hike to the summit follows Shepherd's Pass trail and involves significant elevation gain from the trailhead over a substantial distance. Visitors should come prepared for high altitude conditions and plan the trip during the climbing season.

The Williamson Bowl near the summit holds several alpine lakes clustered together at extreme elevation. This collection of high mountain water bodies is an unexpected feature that many climbers find remarkable on their approach.

Location: California

Location: Inyo County

Elevation above the sea: 4,390 m

Made from material: granite

Part of: Sierra Peaks Section Peaks List

GPS coordinates: 36.65605,-118.31120

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:23