Phipps Peak

Phipps Peak is a mountain summit in Desolation Wilderness in California that rises to about 2,815 meters (9,236 feet). The summit provides views across Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.

The peak is named after William Phipps, a Kentucky native who arrived in Georgetown, California in 1854 before settling at McKinney Bay on Lake Tahoe. This naming reflects the early pioneer settlement patterns in the Sierra Nevada region.

The mountain trails connect with numerous paths in Desolation Wilderness, forming an integral part of northern California's outdoor recreation network.

Reaching this summit requires several hours of hiking and decent physical fitness, as the terrain is steep and rocky throughout much of the route. Weather conditions can change quickly at this elevation, so hikers should prepare for wind and potentially cool temperatures even on sunny days.

This peak stands out for its rank among the highest-prominence summits in El Dorado County and within Desolation Wilderness, making it more noticeable than many neighboring mountains. The combination of prominence and accessibility makes it a natural endpoint for many hiking routes through the region.

Location: California

GPS coordinates: 38.95463,-120.14991

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:03