Can you hike to Cathedral Peak summit without gear?

[yosemiteken]

I am planning a week long backpacking trip with my two sons (16 & 12) and wanted to start at TM and go to the Valley via Cathedral Lakes and Clouds Rest. I was considering hiking to the top of the Cathedral Peak summit when when we are in the Cathedral Lakes area. We don't have any climbing experience, but we have done Half Dome twice and this was not a problem. Can you hike the summit without gear? If so, what trail/path do you take? Thanks.

[balzaccom]

I went to the top of Cathedral years ago. It's pretty hairy. WE eventually roped up because of the exposure...we dropped something and it continued to clatter down the mountain for about 300 yards. That's when we decided it made sense to rope up.

I wouldn't do this with kids. Really.

[yosemiteken]

Thanks. Any other peaks or places worth exploring around the Cathedral Lakes area?

[jpcal]

A couple years ago I went up the mountain right next to the lower lake. We went up the ridge to the top, once at the top you could see a lot. On one side it was lower Cathedral and the other side you could see Tenya. It wasn't hard getting up, however there were loose rocks so you have to watch your steps. My dad had brought up his gps and I think it was about 11,000 elevation.

[balzaccom]

I've goen to the top of Mammoth Peak, Mt Dana, Cathedral, COnness...all of them lovely experiences. I think my favorite was Conness...but that's more of a hike. The climb up Mt. Dana is simple, and the views are stunning, including Mono Lake. And it's not far from Cathedral...

[hikehigh]

The summit block of cathedral is class 4 (you will be severely injured or die if you fall un-roped)

[dan]

I tried it once and almost got to the top. The summit is a group of rectangular blocks where you can try and jump on or climb, and would die if you miss. I decided not to risk it.