The Nipple
Peak · 9,340 ft · Yosemite corridor
The Nipple is a 9,340-foot peak in Yosemite's high Sierra corridor. Exposed to westerly wind and accessible via Highway 120, it offers alpine views and winter climbing in avalanche terrain.
Wind averages 10 mph but funnels hard off the western exposure by midday. Temperatures hover near freezing year-round; morning calm windows close by early afternoon. Snow stability is the primary concern November through April.
The 30-day average wind of 10 mph masks sharp daily swings from 6 to 24 mph. Temperature averages 31 degrees Fahrenheit; crowding stays sparse at a 3.0 average. The week ahead follows the typical late-spring pattern of calm mornings and afternoon wind strengthening.
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About The Nipple
The Nipple sits at 9,340 feet in the high-elevation corridor between Tenaya Lake and the Cathedral Range, accessed via Highway 120 from Yosemite Valley. The peak lies in avalanche terrain managed by SAC (Sierra Avalanche Center). Vehicle access via Highway 120 is the primary route; the drive from Yosemite Village takes roughly one hour to trailhead parking. Winter and early spring require snow awareness and current avalanche forecasts. The location sits well above tree line, fully exposed to Sierra weather systems.
The 30-day average temperature of 31 degrees Fahrenheit reflects the current spring snowmelt window. Wind averages 10 mph over the rolling month but peaks at 24 mph on gusty afternoons; morning hours deliver the calmest conditions. Crowding averages 3.0, far lower than Valley destinations, reflecting both the elevation barrier and the avalanche hazard that deters casual visitors. The 365-day temperature range spans 18 to 47 degrees Fahrenheit, with the coldest days in winter and warmest in late summer. Highway 120 typically opens by late April after winter closures, triggering a brief uptick in foot traffic.
The Nipple suits backcountry skiers, snowshoers, and technical mountaineers comfortable with avalanche terrain assessment. Winter and spring visitors must consult the SAC avalanche center forecast before approach. Summer and early fall offer scrambling and peak-bagging with minimal snow, though afternoon wind gusts to 24 mph can be severe. Parking is limited; arrive early or plan for overflow. Experienced visitors time ascents for early morning departure to avoid afternoon wind and maintain visibility in snow conditions.
Nearby Cathedral Range peaks and the Tenaya Lake shore provide alternatives for lower-elevation recreation. Tenaya Lake itself is calmer than The Nipple's exposed ridge but lies in the same Highway 120 corridor. Visitors seeking lower avalanche exposure should consider peaks on the Cathedral Range's eastern flank or descend to Tenaya Lake for water-based activities once snow clears.