Ken Nordberg

Ken Nordberg

Mount Silliman, Sequoia NP

08/29/16

While it is possible to reach Mount Silliman from Silliman Pass, this is quite a challenge for most casual hikers and I would never recommend this route to Mount Silliman for anyone; especially not if Mount Silliman was their destination. Instead follow the Twin Lakes trail to Silliman Creek about 3 miles from Lodgepole. From there do *not* follow Twin Lakes trail across the creek but follow the creek uphill. Even though this is not a maintained trail it is traveled frequently enough for there to be a very good and visible trail. This trail will follow Silliman Creek (and you can verify being on the right track because of the constant sound of running water). It will take you to Silliman Meadow and continue to the base of the infamous granite slabs. From here you're on your own, but the south side of the slabs is covered with vegetation and trees and is relatively easy to scale. Stay away from the north side of the slabs. Lower down they are quite steep. Follow the slabs to Silliman Lake and on to a smaller lake above it. Here the trail picks up again and takes you on an easy class 2 scramble to the summit. This route can be done in a day. I myself did it in about 10 hours round trip with stops at Silliman Lake. Via Silliman Pass you're committing yourself not only to a much longer hike, but also to a potential to encounter class 3 sections or higher if you're not careful with your route finding.

5.0