From the Rock of Ages trailhead:
Follow the
Rock of Ages Approach to Rock of Ages saddle. On saddle, Mt. Wilson comes into view to the south -
1 and
2. Leave the saddle and follow the trail south down to the upper end of Navajo Basin.
From the Navajo Basin trailhead:
Follow the
Navajo Basin Approach toward the upper east end of Navajo Basin -
3. Near 12,200', the end of the basin and the turn-off to Mt. Wilson is finally visible -
4.
Near 12,300' and just above the stream, leave the trail and descend to the bottom of the basin to reach the base of a shoulder that stretches up to Mt. Wilson's northeast ridge -
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6 and
7. Cross the stream and begin the hike south up onto the shoulder
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The hiking is relatively easy and there are some trail segments and cairns along the way -
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9. Near 13,400', reach a large buttress -
10. If the area is free of snow, you'll the rocks on the buttress are covered with green lichen. The easiest way to gain the buttress is to climb directly up its flat face. Reach easier terrain just above 13,500' and continue up the shoulder.
11 looks back on the route from this area.
The northeast ridge is above but don't climb to the ridge just yet. Climb a bit higher and begin an ascending traverse over rock ribs and possibly snow fields. Look carefully for small cairns that lead across this rugged slope. If you climb too high, crossing the rock ribs becomes more difficult and will involve Class 3 and 4 moves. It's helpful to study the maps and photos before crossing this area.
12 is a view of El Diente Peak during the ascent. Continue crossing the rock ribs and gullies while gaining some elevation along the way -
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14 and
15. Near 14,100', reach your final gully and climb the upper portion to reach the northeast ridge -
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The remaining route involves some Class 3 scrambling and a few Class 4 moves on the summit ridge -
18. Continue right to a notch, turn left and follow the narrow ridge toward the summit -
19. Just prior to the summit, you will finally reach the crux of the climb - a set of rocks which block easy passage -
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21. Climbing to the left is the easiest way around the difficult section to the right requires an exposed Class 4 move which may be uncomfortable for some climbers. After passing the crux, scramble a short distance to the summit -
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23 and and
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North Slopes
(WINTER) HOLD ON! If you don't have much high-elevation, winter climbing experience, be careful in your planning and take a partner. All 14er routes are more difficult and more dangerous in winter.
