Travel Guide To Cathedral Peaks

Located in the province of Montana, Cathedral Peaks is a part of the Cathedral Range. This mountain range is situated in the South Central area of Yosemite National Park. It lies towards the Eastern Mariposa and Tuolumne Counties.

This mountain range is a part of the Sierra Nevada. The peak lies at an elevation of 3,326 meters. It was ascended for the first time by John Muir in 1869.

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The parent ranges of this mountain peak are mainly Cathedral Range and the Sierra Nevada. This mountain range offers many activities such as hiking, climbing, and sweeping views. Further, this place is also considered to be one of the best beginner alpine climbs in the country.

The trip to Cathedral Peak is generally lightly trafficked. It is majorly a 5.8-mile trail that remains less crowded. The reflection of the peak can be viewed in Cathedral Lake, Yosemite National Park, California.

How To Get There

The best route to approach Cathedral Peaks is via Cathedral Lakes Trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows. One should proceed with Highway 120 from either the east or west. The trailhead is located about a mile west of the visitor center.

This area is considered to be quite busy because it is the residential area of the locals. Take the JMT south towards Cathedral Lake for 3.5 miles to reach the west side of the Cathedral Peak. The Budd Creek Drainage can be followed to approach SE Buttress.

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Best Time To Climb

People are usually advised to climb the mountain range during the month of May to October. Highway 120 is closed after this time period. Towards the end of October, the highway is closed for overnight parking.  A lot of snow is present in the month of May and June. Hence, it is advised to plan your trip accordingly.

Moreover, it is advised to approach the Cathedral Peaks with snowshoes. It makes the journey much easier.

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Hiking In Cathedral Peaks

Cathedral Peaks have a lot to offer to its tourists. Hiking is one of the main adventures that one can experience in the Cathedral Peaks. People absolutely love driving along the road winding to the trail up to the Cathedral Peaks. Some of the major hiking trails are listed below:

  • Rainbow Gorge Trail
  • Ganabu Ridge And Baboon Rock Hike
  • Amphitheatre Heritage Trail
  • Mlambonja Pass to Twins Cave Trail
  • Cathedral Peak Hike
  • The Bell Traverse
  • Xeni Cave Hike
  • Ribbon Falls Cave Hike
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Horse Riding And Quad Biking

If you’re someone who loves to indulge in a wide range of activities, you will have an amazing time at the Cathedral Peaks. One can go for Quad Biking to zip along mountain trails. In addition, individuals can also enjoy a horseback ride through the rolling green hills.

Mountain biking is also available where one can go for 20-kilometer biking in a well-designed trail. Golf is played in the mountainous region of the Cathedral Peaks. The golf course has one of the best scenic views with rocky outcrops and various water features.

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So if you are planning to visit this mountain range in your vacations, make sure that you visit the Cathedral Peaks. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful places that a person can visit.

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