Overview
Five Fingers is a dramatic uprising of barren rock along the southeast ridge which extends from Owens Peak to the Indian Wells Valley floor. The steep 35-45% grade sand and scree slopes make the hike up a slog, but the solid rock scrambling and climbing at the top of the short hike up makes it well worth it.
Getting There
-Take SR 14 to Mojave.
-Continue north on SR 14 to the intersection with SR 178 (Freeman Junction).
-Continue north on SR 14 another 5.3 miles to a dirt road on the left. Turn left. This is 0.4 mile past the Homestead Cafe. SR 14 is under construction. It may be necessary to continue farther north and turn around, returning to the dirt road. Note your odometer and go as follows:
-At 2.6 miles, Powers Well on the left. Keep straight.
-At 2.7 miles, fork. Turn right.
-At 3.2 miles, fork. Keep right. This is the turnoff for Owens Peak, Morris Peak and Mount Jenkins.
-Park in a parking area a short distance from the fork.
Red Tape
To my knowledge nothing is needed for day hiking this peak. It is possible to hike up to the spiny ridge from any convenient parking area near the peak. It is suggested that a Wilderness map is obtained to be sure that you do not violate the Wilderness boundaries.
When To Climb
The mountain can be climbed anytime of year. Late fall into early spring are probably the most comfortable times in terms of temperature. Despite being above 5,000 ft in the Southern Sierra, snow is not an issue, but dress warm in the mornings and evenings in the winter.
Camping
At the 2.6 mile mark, Powers Well on the left, as described in the driving directions, there is suitable camping, but there are no facilities.
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