Cockscomb
Peak · 10,688 ft · Yosemite corridor
Cockscomb is a 10,688-foot Sierra Nevada peak in the Yosemite corridor, sitting exposed to afternoon wind tunnels off the high country. Early season access is limited by snowpack.
Wind dominates: the 30-day average runs 12 mph with gusts to 36 mph, driven by afternoon thermal circulation across the open ridge. Mornings are markedly calmer. Temperature swings from 12 degrees in winter to 41 degrees in summer; plan clothing layers even on mild days.
Cockscomb's 30-day average NoGo Score of 33 reflects high-altitude exposure and wind sensitivity. The recent rolling average wind of 12 mph is typical for this elevation and orientation. The week ahead will track the same pattern: calm mornings, rising wind by mid-day, with temperatures staying near the rolling average.
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About Cockscomb
Cockscomb sits at 10,688 feet in the high Sierra, north of the Yosemite backcountry proper, with direct access from Highway 120 via the Tioga Pass corridor. The peak is a day destination for parties with high-altitude scrambling experience and fast descent capability. Approach typically begins from the Mono Basin side or via the Cathedral Lakes drainage; both require vehicle access to Tioga Pass or the eastern Sierra trailheads. The location is avalanche terrain; winter and early-spring ascents demand current snowpack assessment and SAC (Sierra Avalanche Center) bulletins.
Conditions at this elevation run extreme. The rolling 30-day average temperature is 25 degrees Fahrenheit with a low of 12 degrees recorded over the year; expect hard freeze at dawn even in late summer. Wind averaging 12 mph over 30 days spikes to 36 mph in afternoon funneling; the ridge is fully exposed. Crowding averages 3 (very light), a function of elevation, access difficulty, and short viable season. Late-spring through early-autumn is the only practical window; winter and early-spring require mountaineering gear and snowpack judgment.
This peak suits experienced Sierra scramblers and climbers with cold-weather and altitude tolerance. Day parties dominate; overnight camping at this elevation is rare and exposed. Plan for a predawn start from a lower camp; descent must finish before afternoon wind hits hard. Bring insulating layers, a wind shell, and high-SPF sunscreen; solar reflection off snow and rock intensifies burn risk. Water sources are melt-fed and seasonal; cache water on ascent or carry sufficient capacity. Afternoon wind often closes the summit window by mid-afternoon, so early turnaround is standard practice.
Cockscomb sits in close proximity to Cathedral Lakes, Mount Conness, and Tioga Pass gateway trailheads. Parties ascenders looking for slightly lower-elevation alternatives or a multi-day traverse often pair Cockscomb with the Cathedral Lakes circuit or Mono Pass approaches. The eastern Sierra's high-altitude weather is more stable and predictable than maritime-influenced ranges to the west, but wind at ridge elevation is relentless. Consult SAC forecasts and current conditions reports before committing to any ascent in winter or spring.