Page Type:
|
Mountain/Rock |
|---|---|
Lat/Lon:
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38.63990°N / 119.9321°W |
County:
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Alpine |
Activities:
|
Hiking |
Season:
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Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter |
|
Elevation:
|
9342 ft / 2847 m |
|
Overview
The Nipple is one of several easily accessible peaks located near Blue Lakes road in the Mokelumne Wilderness south of Lake Tahoe. The peak acquired its name as the result of its broad base and small rounded summit block which resemble that of the human body. Its comical name, proximity to multiple campgrounds, and lack of challenging terrain make the peak a popular destination.The summit offers fantastic views of the Carson, Luther, and Ebbetts pass regions. The Nipple can be combined with nearby Jeff Davis Peak and Markleeville Peak for a full day of peak bagging. The Nipple is on the Tahoe OGUL Peak List
The NippleGetting There
The Nipple is best approached from Blue Lakes Road. If coming from the east, follow Highway 88 2.5 miles past the turn off for Luther Pass and turn left onto Blue Lakes Road (38.7513 N, 119.9419 W). If coming from the west, follow Highway 88 6.25 miles past Carson pass and turn right onto Blue Lakes Road (38.7513 N, 119.9419 W). The Nipple will come into view after following Blue Lakes Road south for 7.5 miles (38.6584 N, 119.9172 W). All routes require climbing class 2 climbing. A summary of starting options is listed below.| Trailhead | Route | Elevation Gain | One Way Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Blue Lake Road Turn Out | Cross Country | 1116 ft | 1.4 miles |
| 2 - PCT | Trail/Cross Country | 1171 ft | 2.1 miles |
| 3 – Middle Creek Campground | Cross Country | 1059 ft | 1.0 miles |
Summer TrailheadsBlue Lakes Road is not plowed in the winter. Parking options during this time include the Sno-Park at Carson Pass, the likely plowed and possibly legal turn out at Red Lake, and the Sno-Park at Hope Valley.
Red Tape
The Nipple is subject to the regulations of the Mokelumne Wilderness. No permit is required for day hiking. Parking in the turn outs on Blue Lakes road is free. During the winter parking at the Carson Pass or Hope Valley Sno-Parks requires a SNO-PARK PASS.Camping
Developed campgrounds can be found at Upper Blue Lake, Middle Creek, Lower Blue Lake, and Hope Valley. Fees and facilites vary.
Summit ViewWhen To Climb
Highway 88 and 89 are open year around allowing all season access to peak. While Blue Lakes Road is not plowed in the winter, access is available from the Carson Pass Sno-Park, turn out at Red Lake, and the Sno-Park at Hope Valley. The peak is generally snow free from July through September.Lake Tahoe is subject to a variety of weather conditions, including summer thunderstorms and heavy snowfall in the winter. Weather forcast can be found HERE.
The avalanche advisory can be found HERE.
External Links
Bob Burd - The Nipple, Jeff Davis Peak, Markleeville Peak - January 13, 2006The Nipple - September 18, 2010
Summit Register