Banner Peak (12,945 ft) and Mt. Ritter (13,157 ft) from the vicinity of Thousand Island Lake. More...

Banner Peak (12,945 ft) and Mt. Ritter (13,157 ft) from the vicinity of Thousand Island Lake.

"Ritter and Banner" are distinctive landmarks that are easily seen from several points along Hwy. 395 near Mammoth Lakes. Depending on the route selected, each of these can be a fun peak to climb and are very popular. John Muir, in Chapter 4 of the Mountains of California, gives an adrenalin filled account of the first ascent of Mt. Ritter. Here's part of it:

"At length, I found myself at the foot of a sheer drop in the bed of the avalanche channel, which seemed to bar all further progress. The tried dangers beneath seemed even greater than that of the cliff in front; therefore, after scanning its face again and again, I commenced to scale it, picking my holds with intense caution. After gaining a point about half-way to the top, I was brought to a dead stop, with arms outspread, clinging close to the face of the rock, unable to move hand or foot either up or down. My doom appeared fixed. I must fall. "

(See the Sierra Club's John Muir Exhibit for the complete account...)

This photo was taken on a solo trail run from Agnew Meadow to Tuolumne Meadows.