Telescope Peak
The 11,000-foot Telescope Peak was first climbed when the U.S. Civil War was still in progress.
Plan Around Telescope Peak
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Telescope Peak Details
The 11,000-foot Telescope Peak was first climbed when the U.S. Civil War was still in progress; Dr. Samuel Gorge reported in 1861 that the 100-mile views were so epic that it was like looking through a telescope. The highest point within Death Valley, the mountain also is the tallest peak in the Panamint Range; it rises a remarkable 11,331 feet from the lowest point in Death Valley (Badwater Basin, at −279 feet) in just 15 miles. Climbers still conquer the summit today: the 14-mile Telescope Peak trialhead is located at the end of California Route 178 near Wildrose Canyon and the Mahogany Flats Campground inside Death Valley National Park. This strenuous, 7-mile hike involves a 3,000 foot elevation gain and is best to do in the summer months, when you'll find it delightfully cool (snow doesn't melt here until June) compared to temperatures down in the valley. In winter, only experienced climbers who know how to use an ice axe and crampons should attempt this hike.
Difficulty
High
Distance
7 miles
Estimated time
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Telescope Peak
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Telescope Peak
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Telescope Peak while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Panamint Range
The 100-mile long Panamint Range forms the mountainous western side of Death Valley.
3.3 mi away
Rogers Peak
At nearly 10,000 feet high, Rogers Peak is among the highest points in the Panamint Mountains.
3.6 mi away
Panamint City
This Panamint Range ghost town sprung up after silver and copper was found nearby in 1872.
4.3 mi away
Telescope Peak
Boasting one of the best views over Death Valley, this 14-mile round trip hike gains over 3,000-feet in elevation in just under 4 hours.
4.3 mi away
Mahogany Flat Campground (Primitive)
Mahogany Flat Campground, at 8,200 feet, is the highest-altitude campground in the park.
