Palisade Crest

Palisade Crest is a mountain ridge in the Sierra Nevada featuring a jagged formation with twelve distinct summits. The highest point reaches about 13,559 feet (4,130 meters) and sits within protected wilderness areas.

Indigenous peoples used the region's resources for generations before it became part of protected lands. The area received formal protection as part of the national park and wilderness system in the 20th century.

The summits here carry unofficial names inspired by characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings', with the highest point called Gandalf Peak. Climbers and hikers notice these literary references woven into the landscape.

Reaching the summits requires advanced climbing skills and specialized mountaineering equipment due to the steep and technical terrain. Visitors should have significant hiking and climbing experience before attempting this challenge.

The ridge sits at the boundary between two counties and ranks among California's most challenging climbing destinations. Only experienced mountaineers regularly reach this remote location.

Location: California

Location: Fresno County

Location: Inyo County

Part of: Sierra Peaks Section Peaks List, Vagmarken Club Sierra Crest List

GPS coordinates: 37.08144,-118.48959

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42