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Michael Minaret Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Michael Minaret

Starr/Eichorn/Michael/Amphitheater Chutes T 5.6 4c 14 V 12 S 4b

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Elevation:	11,687 ft	3,562 m
GPS:	37.65996, -119.17979 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	2,849 total · 35/month
Shared By:	Richard Shore on Jul 26, 2019
Admins:	Chris Owen, Lurk Er, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes Page Updates (admin only)

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Description

**12,278 ft (3,742 m)**

Michael Minaret, 12,200'+ is the second tallest peak in the group next to Clyde Minaret, and is the proud stand-alone summit to the left of the main ridge when seen from the vicinity of Minaret Vista. It's exposed spire summit is one of the coolest in all the Sierra, and only sees a fraction of the traffic that Clyde gets. This intimidating tower is steeped in history, from the impressive 1923 first ascent to the tragic solo death of Walter Starr and ensuing rescue attempts in 1933. His body is entombed on the mountain to this day. This story is well documented in the classic book "Missing in the Minarets", and some additional information can be found here - http://www.traditionalmountaineering.org/News_PeterStarr.htm

Getting There

Getting to Michael Minaret is no easy task, and will require an overnight for most parties. To access the routes on the west side of Michael (Starr's Chute, Eichorn's Chute, and Michael's Chute), follow the Shadow Creek Trail to Ediza Lake then cross-country up and over Ritter Pass, then heading south along the flanks of the ridge (9+ miles one way). To access the routes on the east side of Michael (Amphitheater Chute, South Face III 5.7 A1, The Crescent IV 5.8), take the Minaret Trail to Cecile Lake and cross-country up and over South Gap to Amphitheater Lake (~8.5 miles one way). Crampons and an ice axe are advisable for either approach.