Moderate Peaks for Your First Time in the High Sierra

It’s summer time! Which means it is prime time to go exploring in the High Sierra. Whether you live close by, or will be traveling from out of state, the High Sierra is a magical enough destination to capture anyone’s attention.

This is the land of granite spires, turquoise lakes, and wide-open sky—any hikers paradise. But if you’re new to high elevation hiking or backpacking, diving into the most rugged or remote terrain can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, the range is peppered with moderate peaks that offer incredible views, satisfying challenges, and a gentler introduction to high-altitude travel.

Here are a few moderate peaks to consider for your first High Sierra experience.

Clouds Rest (9,926 ft) – Yosemite National Park

Distance: ~14.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~3,000 ft

While not the shortest day hike, Clouds Rest could not be omitted from this list. It is often overshadowed by Half Dome, but Clouds Rest offers arguably better panoramic views with fewer crowds and no permit lottery (unless you camp overnight). The trail climbs steadily from Tenaya Lake and finishes with a narrow granite ridge walk—exhilarating but not overly exposed. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the Clark Range.

Why it’s a great intro

Well-maintained trails, no technical climbing, dramatic payoff without extreme elevation, and much less crowded! 

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Mount Dana (13,061 ft) – Tioga Pass

Distance: ~6 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~3,100 ft

With one of the most beautiful views of Mono Lake at its summit, Mount Dana should not be missed! Mount Dana is the second-highest peak in Yosemite and one of the easiest 13ers in the Sierra to summit. It’s a short but steep ascent from Tioga Pass, meaning you start high and gain elevation fast. You pass several high alpine lakes on your journey up, so if you don’t want to make it to the summit, there are plenty of beautiful places to stop and turn around along the way! The route is mostly a trail over talus, with breathtaking views of Mono Lake and the Sierra Crest from the summit.

Why it’s a great intro

High starting elevation cuts the work in half, and you’ll get a taste of thin air without needing an overnight (plus, wildflowers if you’re lucky!).

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Mount Hoffmann (10,856 ft) – Yosemite National Park

Distance: ~6.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~2,000 ft

Not to be missed, the Mount Hoffman trail leads you through beautiful high alpine lakes and gorgeous wild flower meadows. Tucked away in the geographic center of Yosemite, Mount Hoffmann is a hidden gem. The hike starts from the beautiful May Lake, and then leaves a traditional trail for some scrambling up to the Mount Hoffman summit. On top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views that include Half Dome, Cathedral Peak, and the Sierra backcountry. Pack a lunch and enjoy it around May Lake before you start up the final push to the top! 

Why it’s a great intro

A shorter hike with manageable gain and big views. The May Lake area is also great for beginner backpackers.

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Lembert Dome (9,450 ft) − Tuolumne Meadows

Distance: ~3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~850 ft

Lembert Dome is a must see for anyone visiting Tuolumne Meadows. It is more of a big granite hill than a true peak, but it still counts! This hike is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone acclimating to altitude. The trail winds gently through pine forests before popping out onto the dome itself, where you’ll scramble (carefully) up smooth granite to a panoramic overlook of Tuolumne Meadows and the Cathedral Range. It’s a short but sweet hike, and a great place to catch the sunset!

Why it’s a great intro

Short hike, excellent trail conditions, and an optional climb up the dome’s gentle slope.

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 Mammoth Crest (~11,000 feet) − Mammoth Lakes

Distance~5–7 miles round-trip (depending on how far along the crest you go)
Elevation Gain: ~1,500–1,800 feet

You start from the Crystal Lake Trailhead at ~9,000 feet. The trail climbs through classic Eastern Sierra forest and granite before arriving at Crystal Lake — a stunning spot in its own right, with views of Mammoth Mountain behind you and the high peaks of the John Muir Wilderness in front.

From there, you’ll ascend steep switchbacks up to Mammoth Crest, a broad ridgeline that offers jaw-dropping views in every direction. Once on the crest, you can walk along the ridgeline for as long as you like — it’s relatively flat and open, making it feel like an alpine stroll at 11,000 feet.

Why it’s a great intro

Moderate hiking with stunning vistas, and starting at elevation rewards the short hike with high value views! 

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Tips for First-Timers in the High Sierra

Here are some tips for folks spending their first summer in the High Sierra:

• Start Early: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Beat the heat and the crowds with a dawn (or earlier!) start.
  
• Pack Smart: Layers, sun protection, and plenty of water are key. Even on a moderate peak, the weather can change quickly!
  
• Know Your Limits: It’s okay to turn around. Many of these peaks offer fantastic views well before the summit.

Whether you’re prepping for bigger alpine goals or just craving a memorable hike above tree line, these moderate peaks will introduce you to the magic of the High Sierra without pushing you past your comfort zone. Just remember: the views are better when you earn them!

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Cover Photo Credit: Kaya Lindsay