When it comes to breathtaking mountain ranges and awe-inspiring landscapes, few places capture the imagination like Mount Milestone. Nestled deep within the Great Western Divide of the Sierra Nevada, this towering thirteener offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and adventurous challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned climber, a history enthusiast, or someone who simply loves connecting with nature, Mount Milestone promises an experience like no other.
In this blog, we’ll delve into what makes Mount Milestone such a remarkable destination. From its distinctive obelisk-shaped peak to its remote location, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this hidden gem, including its history, climbing routes, and the incredible views it offers. So, grab your hiking boots, and let’s embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of Mount Milestone!
The Charm of Mount Milestone
What sets Mount Milestone apart from other peaks in the Sierra Nevada is its monolithic summit, which resembles a natural obelisk. This unique formation isn’t just visually stunning—it’s also steeped in history, with the name first appearing on maps as early as 1873, thanks to the Whitney Survey. Located at the border of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the mountain rises majestically, marking its presence in one of California’s most scenic regions.
But what truly makes Mount Milestone special is its remote location. Unlike peaks that are easily accessible, this mountain demands effort and determination from anyone looking to summit it. The nearest trailheads, including Shepherd Pass and Road’s End, are 23 to 29 miles away, depending on the approach. For those who relish a challenge, this isolation is part of the allure—it’s a chance to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature.
Climbing Mount Milestone: Routes and Rewards
Climbing Mount Milestone isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about the journey, the breathtaking views, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it. The mountain offers a variety of climbing routes, catering to different levels of expertise.
One of the most popular routes is the class 3 East Ridge Route, starting from Milestone Basin. This path takes you through rugged terrain, offering climbers a direct route to the summit. Another favored option is the Northwest Face Route, which begins near Lake 11,522. Though more challenging, this route rewards climbers with stunning vistas of the Kaweah Range, the Kings-Kern Divide, and the Whitney region.
For experienced climbers looking for added excitement, the mountain also features:
- A class 3 traverse to Midway Mountain, which partially overlaps the East Ridge Route.
- A II, 5.6 route originating from Milestone Pass.
- A I, 5.7 route starting from the notch north of the mountain.
Each ascent offers its unique challenges and rewards, but all share the common theme of delivering unforgettable views and a sense of triumph.
Getting There
Reaching Mount Milestone is an adventure in itself. For climbers using the Road’s End trailhead, the journey begins on Highway 180, winding through Grant’s Grove before reaching the starting point. From there, it’s a 4-mile hike along the Bubbs Creek trail, followed by a 12-mile climb over Avalanche Pass, and then another 10 miles up Cloud Canyon.
For those taking the Shepherd Pass trailhead, the journey involves equally demanding terrain. Both routes require careful planning and physical preparation, but the effort is well worth it once you stand at the base of Mount Milestone.
When to Climb
The best time to climb Mount Milestone is between July and October, when snow conditions are manageable. Winter ascents are significantly more challenging due to the mountain’s remote location and the closure of Highway 180 past Grant’s Grove. If you’re planning an ascent, keep an eye on weather updates and ensure you’re equipped for the conditions.
Camping and Permits
Camping options near Mount Milestone are plentiful, with Colby Lake at 10,584 feet serving as an ideal base camp for those tackling the Northwest Face Route. Additionally, climbers approaching from the East Ridge Route can set up camp in the Milestone Creek Basin.
Permits are mandatory for overnight stays. Visitors using the Road’s End trailhead must pay a $10 entrance fee or present a National Parks Pass. Wilderness permits, costing $15, can be reserved in advance. For those starting at Shepherd Pass, a wilderness permit from the Inyo National Forest is required, costing $5 per person. Given the popularity of the trailheads, it’s wise to reserve permits well in advance to secure your spot.
The Views from the Summit
Reaching the summit of Mount Milestone is an achievement that comes with breathtaking rewards. From the top, climbers are treated to panoramic views of the Kaweah Range, the Kings-Kern Divide, and the iconic Whitney region. The sense of isolation and connection to nature is unparalleled, making every step of the challenging ascent worthwhile.
The History Behind the Name
Named by the Whitney Survey in 1873, Milestone Mountain gained its title due to its obelisk-like summit, a defining feature visible from miles away. Early maps, including Hoffmann’s map of 1873, referred to the peak as Milestone Mountain, emphasizing its prominent landmark status. Over the years, names such as Milestone Plateau and Milestone Bowl were introduced to describe nearby features. However, historical records, such as those by Elliot and Dean, highlight the enduring significance of this name in Sierra lore.
Conclusion
Mount Milestone isn’t just a mountain—it’s an experience, a challenge, and a connection to the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada. From its unique monolithic summit to its remote and rugged trails, it embodies the spirit of adventure. Whether you’re scaling its East Ridge Route, camping at Colby Lake, or simply admiring its silhouette from afar, Mount Milestone offers something for everyone.
For climbers, it’s a test of skill and endurance. For nature lovers, it’s a place of serenity and wonder. And for history enthusiasts, it’s a reminder of the explorers who first charted its rugged terrain. No matter how you experience Mount Milestone, one thing is certain—it will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
FAQs
1. What is Mount Milestone, and where is it located?
Mount Milestone is a prominent peak in the Great Western Divide, a subrange of the Sierra Nevada. It sits along the border of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, making it a key landmark in California’s rugged wilderness.
2. What makes Mount Milestone unique?
Mount Milestone is known for its obelisk-shaped summit, which gives it a distinct appearance. Its remote location adds to its allure, offering climbers and adventurers a challenging yet rewarding experience with panoramic views of the Kaweah Range, Kings-Kern Divide, and the Whitney region.
3. How do I get to Mount Milestone?
Access to Mount Milestone is via two main trailheads: the Road’s End trailhead in Kings Canyon National Park or the Shepherd Pass trailhead. The journey involves long hikes, including routes like the Bubbs Creek trail, Avalanche Pass, and Cloud Canyon, depending on your chosen path.
4. What permits are required to climb Mount Milestone?
Climbers entering through the Road’s End trailhead must pay a $10 entrance fee or present a National Parks Pass. Wilderness permits for overnight stays cost $15. For access via the Shepherd Pass trailhead, an Inyo National Forest wilderness permit is required, available for $5 per person. Advanced reservations are recommended due to trailhead quotas.
5. When is the best time to climb Mount Milestone?
The ideal time to climb Mount Milestone is between July and October, when snow conditions are manageable. Winter climbs are not recommended due to the remote location and the closure of Highway 180 in Kings Canyon National Park.
