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McClellan Peak Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Areas in McClellan Peak

Crystal Lake Tower 1 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 1 / 1

Nightmare Needles 2 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 2 / 2

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Elevation:	8,205 ft	2,501 m
GPS:	47.4698, -120.7862 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	362 total · 24/month
Shared By:	lostgringo on Jun 11, 2025
Admins:	Jon Nelson, Zachary Winters, Mitchell McAuslan Page Updates (admin only)

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Description

McClellan Peak is an 8,368-foot (2,551-meter) high point on McClellan Ridge within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. It is part of the Stuart Range. McClellan Peak forms the southern rim of the Enchantments lake basin and sits about 1.3 miles east of Little Annapurna and 1.6 miles southwest of The Temple, its two nearest neighbors. The peak is named after explorer George B. McClellan, who visited the area in 1853. While generally known as a non-technical peak, it features numerous subpeaks, gendarmes, and needles that offer opportunities for 5th class rock climbing, especially along its southern flanks. It was first ascended by Prestrud, Rankin, and Herston on July 5, 1946.

Getting There

Reach the easternmost section of the Enchantment Lake Basin either via the Snow Lake Trail or by starting at the Stuart Lake Trailhead at the end of Eightmile Road (USFS Road 7601). From the lakes below the north slope, ascend toward the prominent east–west ridge, staying to the right of the Prong. Scramble directly up, or traverse slightly farther right to reach the notch just left of the first Chessman (the Pawn). After crossing the notch, an open basin on the south side is easily traversed, leading to the final summit via additional scrambling.

To access features on the west side of McClellan—such as Crystal Lake Tower and Crystal Lake Wall—leave the Ingalls Creek Trail approximately 100 feet before it crosses Crystal Creek. A faint climber’s trail ascends from this point and can be followed until the terrain becomes bouldery, several hundred feet below the seasonal pond.