The approach to the south ridge of Alta Mountain involves a 4 mile hike past beautiful Rachel Lake to the ridge. Little elevation is gained for the first 2.5 miles but the last 1.5 miles can be pretty steep at times. There are several campsites around Rachel Lake. Alpine Lakes Wilderness regulations do apply, which includes no campfires.

The hike past Rachel Lake to base of the south ridge is also steep at times but the views start to open up, including Box Ridge and Rachel Lake. This part of the trail is mostly on open slopes.

Route Description

Once the trail evens out, continue on a few hundreds yards and take the unmarked spur trail on the right. Enter the trees and past a couple of large boulders brings you to a steeper part of the trail.

The south ridge is tree-dotted and moderately-angled at times. It has a false summit which can be tempting to stop at after already completing 5 miles. However the summit can be seen to the north and is about a half-mile away. From here, a walk across the ridge and a short downclimb brings you to a steeper part of the ridge, all along passing in and out of tree clumps. The final leg is on an open rocky slope to the summit where typically, on several pictures I've seen and what I've experienced in person, is a cairn in the shape of an arch.

Essential Gear

The south ridge is non-technical and requires no special gear during the typical climbing season. An ice axe and crampons should be used if snow persists.