The Doodad
Peak · 11,830 ft · Yosemite corridor
The Doodad is a high Sierra peak at 11,830 feet in the Yosemite corridor. Exposed ridgeline with significant wind exposure and avalanche terrain; best approached in stable, calm conditions.
The Doodad catches wind funneling off the surrounding high country; afternoon gusts are common and often exceed 20 mph. Morning calm rarely lasts past late morning. Snowpack instability is a winter and spring concern given the avalanche terrain. Wind and temperature swing sharply with time of day.
Over the last 30 days, The Doodad has averaged 34.0 on the NoGo Score with an average wind of 15.0 mph and temperatures around 21 degrees Fahrenheit. The week ahead typically continues this pattern of moderate wind and cold; watch for afternoon gusts that can spike above 30 mph. Spring snowpack stability remains the primary planning factor.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About The Doodad
The Doodad sits at 11,830 feet in the high Sierra, positioned within the Yosemite corridor east of the main valley. Access is primarily from Highway 120; the peak is reached via approach routes that climb through mixed terrain with significant avalanche exposure on the upper slopes. Winter and spring ascents require careful snowpack assessment and familiarity with avalanche terrain. The location is relatively low-traffic; base popularity sits at 0.2, meaning most visits are by experienced climbers aware of the hazards.
Conditions at The Doodad are characterized by high wind exposure and cold temperatures typical of the 11,000-foot zone. The 30-day average wind of 15.0 mph masks frequent afternoon spikes; maximum wind speeds over the rolling period reached 42.0 mph. Temperature averages 21 degrees Fahrenheit in the current rolling window but has ranged from 7 to 34 degrees across the full year, indicating the extreme seasonal swing. Crowding averages 3.0 on the rolling scale, reflecting both low popularity and seasonal access limitations due to snow.
The Doodad suits experienced mountaineers and scrambling climbers comfortable with avalanche terrain and exposed ridgelines. Plan ascents for early morning calm; afternoon wind and spindrift are reliable by mid-day. Expect snow coverage from late fall through late spring; assess recent SAC avalanche bulletins before committing to any snow-filled approach or descent. The peak is most feasible in stable high-pressure windows when temperatures allow safe snowpack conditions and wind remains below 20 mph for the critical morning hours.
Nearby high-country alternatives in the Yosemite corridor include peaks and passes accessible from Highway 120. The Doodad's elevation and exposure make it noticeably colder and windier than valley-floor destinations; climbers seeking less wind exposure often opt for lower, more sheltered ridges. Winter climbers should verify avalanche center forecasts and have solid winter navigation skills before attempting any approach.