This route is a fun and challenging traverse of 3 peaks in the Southern Clark Range, Mt. Gale, Mt. Sing, and Redtop. Madera Peak is another prominent peak nearby, visible throughout the traverse. This seldom-visited side of Yosemite offers stunning views of the Sierra Crest to the East, and on clear days expansive views to the West. Get off the beaten path, and escape the crowds, this area is worth a visit.
The traverse of these three peaks begins and ends at Chiquito Trailhead. It begins with a pleasant and mellow run through the forest, across the Yosemite National Park boundary at Chiquito Pass, and up to the Chain Lakes, where you get your first view of Gale and Redtop towering over the basin (The view of Sing is blocked by a ridge). You proceed toward Upper Chain Lake and turn off trail to gain the Northwest ridge of Gale. From here you will be off-trail until about 3 miles before the finish. Scramble up Gale. It is mostly class two with some class 3 that can likely be avoided if you want to. From here, you follow the obvious ridgeline that connects the 3 peaks. Route find how you like, but stay on the top of the ridge as much as possible. From the top of Redtop, head South along the ridge to the jeep road about a mile down. Follow the road back to Chiquito.
