Kern Peak facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Kern Peak
Kern Peak Location in California
Highest point
Elevation	11,510 ft (3,510 m)
Prominence	2,560 ft (780 m)
Parent peak	Trail Peak
Geography
Location	California, United States
Parent range	Central South Sierra
Topo map	USGS Kern Peak
Climbing
First ascent	1924 by William Horsfall and C. Laughlin
Easiest route	Trail Hike

Kern Peak is a tall mountain located in Tulare County, California, within the amazing Sierra Nevadas mountain range. Standing at 11,510 feet (about 3,508 meters) high, it's one of the most important peaks in California. This means it rises a lot higher than the land around it! Kern Peak is found to the west of Olancha Peak, which is another mountain in the same range.

Reaching the top of Kern Peak is an exciting adventure. The trail follows a paved road for about 28 miles (45 kilometers). The best time to hike or climb this mountain is usually from May to October, when the weather is most suitable for outdoor activities.

Exploring Kern Peak

Kern Peak is part of the vast Sierra Nevada mountain range, which stretches across California. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including tall trees, clear rivers, and diverse wildlife. Many people visit the Sierra Nevada for hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors.

Camping Adventures

If you love camping, Kern Peak offers some great opportunities! There are several campsites located along the paths that lead to the top of the mountain. Some of these spots are right next to the South Fork Kern River, which is a beautiful place to set up camp.

You might also find areas that aren't official campsites but are still good for camping. However, it's important to know that if you plan to camp in the Golden Trout Wilderness area, you will need a special permit. These permits help protect the wilderness and make sure everyone can enjoy it safely. You can often reserve these permits ahead of time to make sure you have a spot.