We summited University Peak on Sep 22, 2019, and the 360-degree view from the top was absolutely breathtaking – every bit of effort was worth it.
Here's the lowdown on our route: we started at Kearsarge Lake trailhead, camped at a small lake at 11,400 feet (right under University Peak), and summited the next day.
A few tips to help you prep:
After passing Gilbert Lake, take the well-maintained trail to Matlock Lake (it's signposted).
From Matlock Lake, it's trailless, but the lake at 11,400 feet is a great spot to camp – plus, it offers some sick views at sunrise. We camped on the southwest side, where there's a tiny sandy beach, and I'd highly recommend it.
When you're ready to summit, start from the southwest side of the lake – it's way easier to follow the slope.
We went up the northeast ridge, which had some gnarly Class 2 and 3 climbing. From what I've read, the east ridge near the summit might be a more straightforward route, but it was snow-covered when we were there.
Panorama View on Summit of University Peak
Lovely Sunrise at Lake 11400