The Gap
Peak · 11,125 ft · Yosemite corridor
The Gap is an 11,125-foot peak in Yosemite's high Sierra corridor. Wind and exposure dominate the summit; conditions shift dramatically between morning calm and afternoon gusts.
Morning stillness gives way to afternoon wind funneling across the exposed ridgeline. The 30-day average wind is 12 mph, but gusts routinely exceed this by midday. Temperature swings sharply with elevation and time of day. Check conditions before 10 a.m. if you're planning an exposed traverse.
Over the past 30 days, The Gap averaged a NoGo Score of 34.0 with wind holding at 12 mph and temperatures near 22 degrees Fahrenheit. The rolling max wind of 33 mph reflects typical afternoon acceleration on the exposed ridgeline. The week ahead will track similar patterns: stable early hours, deteriorating by afternoon. Watch the hourly wind forecast closely if you're planning a summit attempt.
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About The Gap
The Gap sits at 11,125 feet on the Sierra crest within Yosemite's high country corridor. Access is primarily from the east via Highway 395 and mountain passes, or from the west via Highway 120 and Tioga Pass when conditions permit. The peak sits in avalanche terrain; winter and spring approaches require careful assessment of snowpack stability and slide risk. Base popularity is low, meaning parking and crowding are rarely constraints, but isolation demands self-sufficiency and proper gear.
Seasonality at The Gap follows high-Sierra patterns. Winter and early spring bring deep snow, avalanche hazard, and frequent route closure; the 365-day minimum temperature of 8 degrees Fahrenheit reflects cold spells common above 11,000 feet. Summer (late June through early September) offers the most stable weather and shortest approach windows. Fall and early winter see rapid snowfall and deteriorating conditions. The 30-day average temperature of 22 degrees and average wind of 12 mph capture spring conditions; expect afternoon gusts to regularly reach the rolling 30-day maximum of 33 mph.
The Gap suits experienced backcountry travelers and peak baggers with winter mountaineering skills. Wind exposure and avalanche terrain eliminate casual day hikers. Plan for early morning starts to catch calm conditions before mid-afternoon wind buildup. Carry layers; temperature swings can be 10 to 20 degrees between sun and shade. If you're approaching in winter or spring, consult the Shasta Avalanche Center bulletin and assess slope angles and recent precipitation. Parking at trailheads is uncrowded but facilities are minimal; bring water and be prepared for self-rescue scenarios.
The Gap pairs naturally with other high-Sierra peaks in the Yosemite corridor. Nearby alternatives at similar elevation offer comparable wind and avalanche exposure; summer is the window for all of them. Winter mountaineers often combine The Gap with traverse routes linking other 11,000-foot summits. Lower-elevation day hikes in Yosemite Valley offer a stark contrast in crowding and accessibility, though seasonal closures on Highway 120 can isolate the high country for months.