Mount Cotter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Cotter |
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 Mount Cotter
Location in California
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,719 ft (3,877 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 542 ft (165 m) |
| Parent peak | Mount Clarence King |
| Listing | Sierra Peaks Section |
| Naming | |
| Etymology | Richard D. Cotter |
| Geography | |
| Location | Kings Canyon National Park, Fresno County, California, U.S. |
| Parent range | Sierra Nevada |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Clarence King |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | Southeast Slope 1922 by Bob Fitzsimmons |
| Easiest route | Southeast Slope, Scramble, class 2-3 |
Mount Cotter is a tall mountain located in Kings Canyon National Park in California, U.S.. It stands at an elevation of about 12,719 feet (3,877 meters) above sea level.
The mountain is named after Richard D. Cotter, also known as Dick Cotter. He worked as a "packer" in 1864, which means he helped carry supplies for the California Geological Survey. This group explored and mapped California's land. Dick Cotter, along with another explorer named Clarence King, was one of the first people to climb Mount Tyndall.
Climbing Mount Cotter
Mount Cotter is a popular spot for climbers and hikers. The easiest way to climb it is from an area called Gardiner Basin. This route is considered a class 2-3 climb, which means it involves some easy scrambling where you might need to use your hands for balance.
More challenging climbing paths can be found on the north and east sides of the mountain. The very top of Mount Cotter has a large "summit block." This is a big rock formation that requires more difficult climbing, usually class 4 or 5. You can reach Mount Cotter from either the west or east side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Planning Your Visit
If you plan to stay overnight in the wilderness around Mount Cotter, you will need a special permit. These are called "wilderness permits." You can get them whether you start your trip from the east or west side of the park.
Before you go, you can visit the Kings Canyon National Park Visitors Center in Grant Grove. They can give you information about the park and help you plan your adventure.
Camping Rules
There are many places where you can set up camp along the trails leading to Mount Cotter. Some popular spots include Kearsarge Lakes, Charlotte Lake, and Rae Lakes. However, at these specific lakes, you can only stay for a maximum of two nights.
It's important to know that camping is not allowed at Bullfrog Lake, which is located along the Kearsarge Pass Trail. Also, if you are staying overnight, you must use a bear canister. These special containers help keep your food safe from bears and protect the wildlife.
Images for kids
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Mt. Cotter (left) with Mt. Clarence King (centered), from Glen Pass
