Temple Crag, Granite mountain peak in Inyo County, California.
Temple Crag is a granite mountain that rises to 12,999 feet and displays multiple rock faces with extended climbing routes on high-quality stone. The peak features five major aretes, each extending more than 1,000 feet vertically across the mountain's surface.
The peak was included in the Sierra Peaks Section list, establishing its standing among California's principal climbing destinations. This recognition cemented its role as a classic climbing area within the mountain range.
Named climbing routes like Moon Goddess Arete and Sun Ribbon Arete reflect how climbers connect the rock faces to the sky and celestial imagery. These names become part of the climber community's shared language and how people experience the peak.
Access is via the Big Pine Creek North Fork Trail, which takes hikers about seven miles from Glacier Lodge to the Third Lake base camp where climbing routes begin. The trail is straightforward but requires solid fitness for the full approach.
The base camp at Third Lake sits right by the water's edge, giving climbers an unexpected vantage point to survey the peak before tackling the vertical granite faces. This setting combines water-level calm with exposure to soaring rock walls.
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