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Together, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks contain 140 miles of roads and 800 miles of trails. The hiking trails go from easy paths to steep mountain trails. Reservations to hike to the summit of Mount Whitney are required. There is cross-country skiing ansi snowshoeing in the park from first snow through mid-April. Cross-country trails connect Giant Forest, Wolverton and Lodgepole. Ski trails in Grant Grove connect with trails in Sequoia National Forest.
While snow is still melting in the Sequoia groves, the foothills are clothed in a glorious array of wildflowers. Late March through late May are especially colorful. Remember, however, that poison oak is also abundant at these elevations. In the spring and summer, this twiggy shrub has shiny green leaves in groups of three. The leaves turn red in the fall; the twigs are bare in the winter but may still cause a reaction if touched. If you have any contact with poison oak, wash your skin and clothes as soon as possible.
As you walk through foothill grasses, a tick may hitch a ride. Tick bites are painless, but a small percentage of ticks carry Lyme disease. If you have been hiking in brushy or grassy areas, check yourself thoroughly when you return from your hike. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and seek a ranger's or doctor's advice.
The foothills are also home to rattlesnakes. These and all animals in the National Park are protected. Most snake bites occur as a result of teasing or trying to handle snakes. Few people die from rattlesnake bites, but their poison can cause severe tissue damage.
Topographic maps of the foothill trails are available at the visitor center book store.
Please note that pets are not permitted on any of the trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon Trails
Lengths are given in miles.
Click here for a map of the Ash Mountain and Foothills area.
Ash Mountain and Foothills Area
While snow is still melting in the Sequoia groves, the foothills are clothed in a glorious array of wildflowers. Late March through late May are especially colorful. Remember, however, that poison oak is also abundant at these elevations. In the spring and summer, this twiggy shrub has shiny green leaves in groups of three. Its berries are white. The leaves turn red in the fall; the twigs are bare in the winter but may still cause a reaction if touched. If you have any contact with poison oak, wash your skin and clothes as soon as possible.
As you walk through foothill grasses, a tick may hitch a ride. Tick bites are painless, but a small percentage of ticks carry Lyme disease. If you have been hiking in brushy or grassy areas, check yourself thoroughly when you return from your hike. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and seek a ranger's or doctor's advice.
The foothills are also home to rattlesnakes. These and all animals in the National Park are protected. Most snake bites occur as a result of teasing or trying to handle snakes. Very few people die from rattlesnake bites, but their poison can cause severe tissue damage.
Topographic maps of the foothill trails are available at the visitor center book store.
Please note that pets are not permitted on any of the trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In campgrounds and picnic areas, pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
| Trail | Length | Trail Begins | Description |
| Garfield Grove | 4.0 | South Fork Campground | It climbs rather quickly (1,400 ft in 2 miles) through chaparral and oak-hardwood forest to Putnam Canyon. The trail from this point to Snowslide Canyon, 1.5 mi further on, is often impassable early in the season due to snow. The trail enters the Garfield Grove of Giant Sequoias. Backcountry permits are available for this area |
| Lady Bug Camp | 4.0* | Upper end of South Fork Campground | Hike gains 750 ft as it climbs through chaparral and oak-hardwood forest to Lady Bug Camp on the South Fork of the Kaweah River. Backcountry permits are also available for this area. Because it is a south-facing trail, this is a good hike early in the season |
| Marble Falls | 7.0* | Follow the dirt road at the upper end of Potwisha Campground, after the road crosses the flume, about 0.1 miles from the campground, look for the start of the trail up the hillside | The trail follows the contour of the chaparral-cloaked hills, gradually gaining about 2,000 ft in elevation by the time it reaches the falls |
| Middle Fork Trail to Panther Creek | 9.0* | Hospital Rock picnic area | This trail travels through chaparral and oak grassland above the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River and gains about 1,200 ft in elevation before it crosses Panther Creek. The trail stays well above the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River; steep canyon walls and vertical cliffs make it impossible to descend to the river in most places. Overnight camping is available at Panther Creek, and also 2.0 miles further up the trail at Mehrten Creek |
| North Fork | 11.5 | End of North Fork Drive near the town of Three Rivers | It follows the river through chaparral and oak woodland for approximately 6.5 miles, climbing 1,200 ft. It then turns away from the river and, over the next 5.0 miles, climbs another 2,400 ft through oak grassland and mixed conifer forest to Hidden Springs |
| Colony Mill Road | End of the North Fork Road in Three Rivers | Although all but the first 1/2 mile is now closed to vehicles, this was part of the original road to Giant Forest. It was constructed almost entirely by hand by members of the Kaweah Colony, a community of radical socialists who hoped to cut timber in the Giant Forest area in the mid 1880's. Eventually joins the road to Crystal Cave. |
Click here for a map of the Cedar Grove area.
Please be aware that pets are not allowed on any trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In developed areas, pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
| Trail | Length | Trail Begins | Description |
| Roaring River Falls | 5 min | Begins at parking area 3.0 miles east of the Village turnoff | A refreshing and shady walk leads you to a forceful waterfall rushing through a narrow granite chute |
| Zumwalt Meadow | 1.0 | 4.5 mi east of the turnoff to Cedar Grove Village | One of the most scenic in Kings Canyon. It affords magnificent views of high granite walls, a lush meadow, and the meandering Kings River. A booklet for the self-guiding nature trail is available at the Visitor Center book store or at the trailhead |
| Trail | Length | Description |
| Don Cecil Trail | This trail climbs the relatively cool north-facing slope of the canyon. This historic trail was the major access route to Cedar Grove prior to the completion of Highway 180 in 1939. | |
| Sheep Creek Cascade | 2 mi* | A moderately strenuous hike up the forested Don Cecil Trail provides views of the Monarch Divide and leads to a shady glen on Sheep Creek. This trip takes about 1.5 hours and gains 600' in elevation. |
| Lookout Peak | 13 mi* | Continue beyond Sheep Creek. The climb to Lookout Peak provides an incredible panorama of the park's backcountry. This strenuous, all-day hike climbs some 4000' to the summit. |
| Hotel Creek Trail | The cool of the morning is the best time to hike this trail, which climbs up the relatively dry, south-facing side of the canyon. | |
| Cedar Grove Overlook | 5 mi* | The trail switchbacks up through chaparral to a forested ridge and a rocky outcrop. This strenuous hike will reward you with a gorgeous view up and down Kings Canyon. A 1200' elevation gain, this hike takes 3-4 hours to complete. |
| Hotel Creek - Lewis Creek Loop | 8 mi | If you continue 1.25 mile past the turn-off to Cedar Grove Overlook, the Hotel Creek Trail drops down to join the Lewis Creek Trail. This area was burned in 1980, in one of the largest fires these parks have experienced in recent years. The last 2 miles, from the Lewis Creek Trailhead back to your starting point, follow a trail above the roadway. This trip takes an average of 5 hours and gains 1200' to the highest point. |
| Mist Falls | 8 mi* | This sandy trail follows the glaciated South Fork Canyon through forest and chaparral, past an impressive show of rapids and cascades, to one of the largest waterfalls in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The first part of this trip is relatively flat; during the last mile to the falls, the trail gains 600'. The average time for this trip is 4 to 5 hours. |
Click here for a map of the Grant Grove area.
| Trail | Length | Trail Begins | Description |
| Big Stump Basin | 1.0# | 2.5 mi southwest of the visitor center on Hwy 180 | As you walk this through regenerating sequoia forest, shrubland and meadow, watch for birds and wildflowers. Purchase a trail booklet at the trailhead or visitor center book store. An alternate trail leads across the highway and past the Sawed Tree, a sequoia that survived being cut most of the way through over a century ago |
| Buena Vista Peak | 2.0* | South of the Kings Canyon Overlook on the Generals Highway, 6 mi southeast of Grant Grove | Hike up this granite peak. From the top of Buena Vista Peak, a 360-degree view looks out over the majestic sequoias in Redwood Canyon, Buck Rock Fire Tower, and beyond to a splendid panorama of the high Sierras |
| Converse Basin | 2.0# | Off Hwy 180, 6 mi north of Grant Grove | A trail leads to the Boole Tree from a parking area at the end of the road. This was the world's largest sequoia grove, until virtually every mature tree was cut down early in the 1900's. The Boole Tree was spared, along with a few other less accessible giants. Boole is the world's eighth largest sequoia. Converse Basin also contains the Muir Snag, the oldest known giant sequoia. This tree, which was over 3,000 years old when it died, was discovered by and named for John Muir |
| The General Grant Tree | 0.37 | General Grant Grove | Trail through the heart of the General Grant Grove |
| North Grove Loop | 1.5 | Grant Tree parking area, 1 mi northwest of the visitor center | This lightly traveled, provides an opportunity for a close look at the big trees. Enjoy a quiet walk past meadows and creeks, through mixed conifer and sequoia forest |
| Redwood Canyon | Varies | 2 mi down a rough dirt road 5.0 mi south of Grant Grove | Redwood Canyon is the largest of all sequoia groves, and contains the Hart Tree, one of the 20 largest sequoias. Sixteen miles of trail are available for short walks, day hikes and overnight backpacking trips. As you hike through sequoia/mixed conifer forest, meadow and shrubland, you will see sign of many fires, some recent, some ancient. This road is closed to vehicle traffic in the winter |
| Sequoia Lake Overlook/Dead Giant Loop | 2.2 | Lower end of the Grant Tree parking area | The Dead Giant is an unusually large sequoia which shows signs of man-caused death. If you look closely, you will find ax marks girdling the tree, severing the cambium layer. With this living layer cut, nutrients could no longer move up the tree and the giant died. Also along this trail, you can enjoy a picturesque view of a historic mill pond and reflect on the differences between management of National Forest and National Park land |
Click here for a map of the Lodgepole and Giant Forest area.
| Trail | Length | Trail Begins | Description |
| Alta Peak | 13.8* | Wolverton picnic area | "Alta" means "high" in Spanish, and Alta Peak provides some of the best views and high-country scenery within day-hiking distance of the Lodgepole/Wolverton area. On a clear day, you can even see across the Great Western Divide to Mt. Whitney from the summit of Alta Peak (11,204 ft). However, the steep grades and high altitudes along this trail make it one of the most strenuous in the western half of Sequoia National Park. Don't try this hike unless you are in good physical condition. Backcountry permits are also available for this trail |
| Congress Trail | 2.0 | Sherman Tree | Follow a paved trail through the heart of the sequoia forest. It is recommended for first-time visitors to the Giant Forest, and for visitors with limited time. Famous sequoias along this trail include the House and Senate Groups, and the President, Chief Sequoyah, General Lee and McKinley Trees. An informational trail pamphlet is sold at the Sherman Tree or at the visitor center book store |
| Hazelwood Nature | 1.0# | South side of the Generals Hwy, adjacent to the Giant Forest Lodge | Signs tell the story of man's relationship to the Big Trees |
| Lakes Trail | Varies | Wolverton picnic area | Ascends steeply to a chain of glacial lakes. Heather Lake, the first lake on the trail, is 4.0 mi from Wolverton. Camping is not permitted at Heather Lake, but backpacking permits are available for Emerald and Pear Lakes, 5.7 mi and 6.7 mi respectively from the trailhead |
| Little Baldy | 1.7@ | 11 mi north of the Giant Forest Village on the Generals Hwy | This trail climbs 700 ft. At an elevation of 8,044 ft the granite dome of Little Baldy is an excellent location from which to study the terrain of the Giant Forest Region |
| Tokopah Falls | 1.7@ | Beyond the Log Bridge in Lodgepole Campground | It is an easy walk along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River to the impressive granite cliffs and waterfall of Tokopah Canyon. Tokopah Falls is 1,200 ft high, and is most impressive in early summer, when the run-off from the melting snowpack in the Pear Lake region upstream is at its peak |
| Trail for All People | 0.24# | Adjacent to the Giant Forest Lodge | Forms a loop around Round Meadow. Signs along the way describe forest and meadow life, and this sequoia-lined meadow is a good place to view wildflowers during the summer |
Mineral King Area
Click here for a map of the Mineral Kings area.
The elevation at the floor of the Mineral King Valley is 7500' (2286 meters). Hiking at this altitude is strenuous. Gauge your hiking to the least fit member of your party. During the early summer, mosquitoes can be a particular nuisance. As in all areas of the park, it is best to carry water, as the purity of the lakes and streams along the trails cannot be guaranteed. The hikes described below are suitable for day trips, but backcountry permits are also available for many of the areas.
Please be aware that pets are not allowed on any trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In developed areas, pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
| Trail | Length | Trail Begins | Description |
| Cold Springs Nature | 1.0 | Cold Springs Campground across from the ranger station | The exhibits along this easy trail illustrate the natural history of the Mineral King Valley |
| Crystal Lake | 4.9@ | Crystal Lake | The Crystal Lake trail branches off of the Monarch Lakes Trail at Chihuahua Bowl, passing the remnants of the old Chihuahua Mine near the south rim. It then climbs steeply, providing panoramic views of the southern part of the Mineral King Valley, including White Chief Peak and Farewell Gap. The trail, and the small dam on Crystal Lake were built by the Mt Whitney Power Co between 1903 and 1905. The Southern California Edison Co still operates the facility. There is no maintained trail beyond Crystal Lake |
| Eagle & Mosquito Lakes | Varies | Mineral King Valley | The route to both of these lakes follows the same trail for the first 2.0 mi, ascending steadily up the west side of the Mineral King Valley. After it reaches the lower rim of Eagle Basin, the trails split. The left-hand trail goes to Eagle Lake, a glacially carved tarn 3.4 mi (one way) from the trailhead. The right-hand trail ends at Mosquito Lake #1, 3.6 mi (one way) from the trailhead, but hikers and fishermen often continue up the drainage to the upper lakes |
| Franklin Lakes | 5.4@ | Franklin Lakes | This trail provides many views of the rainbow-colored metamorphic rocks that attracted miners to this area in the 1870's, in the hopes of finding silver. Although the hike can be done as a day trip, many backpackers make these lakes their first stop on their way over Franklin Pass to Rattlesnake Canyon, the Kern Canyon and Mt Whitney |
| Monarch Lakes | 4.2@ | Foot of Sawtooth Peak | This is one of the easier hikes in the Mineral King area, but since the trail follows a west-facing slope, it is best to get an early start. The trail passes through meadows, red fir forest, and the avalanche-scoured Chihuahua Bowl, a basin named by hopeful miners for an area of rich mines in Mexico. It then rounds a shoulder and gives views north and east across the Monarch Creek Canyon to Timber Gap, the Great Western Divide and Sawtooth Pass. Beyond the lakes, the trail climbs 1,200 ft in 1.3 mi / 366 m in 2 km to Sawtooth Pass, a strenuous hike, but one that provides one of the grandest views in the southern Sierras. The footing on this portion of the trail is very loose. Please use caution |
| Timber Gap | 2.0@ | Monarch Creek | This trail follows an old mining route along Monarch Creek before branching off from the trail to Monarch and Crystal Lakes. The open slopes surrounding the Mineral King Valley are kept free of trees by avalanches; Timber Gap itself is protected from avalanches, and is covered with red fir which the miners in the 1800's used for fuel and to shore up their mine shafts. From Timber Gap, you can see north to the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River and across to Alta Peak |
| White Chief Trail | 2.9@ | West side of the Mineral King Valley | The White Chief mine, claimed by James Crabtree in 1873, made Mineral King a household name among miners of that time. Crabtree's ruined cabin, located near the meadow beyond the junction with the Eagle/Mosquito Lakes Trail, is perhaps the oldest remaining structure in the Mineral King area |
* Round Trip
# Loop
@ One Way
Be Bear Aware
Avoid surprising animals at close range. Whistle, talk, sing, or otherwise make noise when hiking in areas where visibility is limited or bear sign present. Take no pets; they are prohibited in the backcountry. A dog's valor may turn into retreat bringing an infuriated bear to you.
Be alert to sign (droppings, diggings, fresh tracks, etc.), sounds, or other indications of bears. Be particularly wary when hiking wildlife trails, or other areas where bears concentrate.
Food and beverages should never be left unattended. Foodstuffs with strong odors such as fish, cheese, sausage, and fresh meats should be stored in a food cache, a bear resistant container, or suspended 10 feet above ground. Carry all refuse and garbage out! Buried refuse will attract bears.
Keep packs and other personal gear on your person. It is easy to become separated from belongings left lying on the ground when a bear unexpectedly approaches. Bears will investigate, often destructively.
Bears approach anglers because they have learned to recognize them as a source of food. Stop fishing when bears are present.
Do not approach bears
The minimum safe distance from any bear is 50 yards; from a sow with young it is 100 yards. These are MINIMUM distances, there are many times that greater distances are required!
Regardless of precautions taken, you may come across a bear. Usually they will run away. A bear standing on hind legs may only be trying to sense you better, not preparing to attack. Even a charge is often a bluff, ending abruptly short of physical contact.
If you see a bear at a distance, turn around or make a wide detour. Keep upwind if possible so the bear will get your scent and know you're there. Talk in an assured tone to communicate your presence. Treat animals as if cubs are nearby. Assume the bear will be defensive. Do not approach closer to scare a bear away as you may be considered a threat.
Avoid actions that interfere with bear movement or foraging activities.
Be satisfied with a distant photograph, or use a telephoto lense. Many fatalities and injuries have been related to photography.
Do not corner an animal. Allow them plenty of space and an escape route.
Cougar Information
Mountain lions, or cougars, roam throughout Sequoia National Park. Your odds chances of seeing one of these secretive animals are low. The likelihood of encountering an aggressive lion is very remote. People are more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a mountain lion.
Nevertheless, it is wise to be prepared. Avoid hiking alone. Watch children closely. Do not let children run ahead of you on the trail. Hikers in particular are encouraged to read these tips carefully. Following them will allow both you and mountain lions to enjoy the parks safely.
The reclusive behavior of mountain lions and their tendency to live in remote areas explain why we know relatively little about these graceful cats. They once ranged from northern Canada through South American and from coast to coast. Probably no other land mammal in this hemisphere had a more extensive range. Due to hunting and habitat loss, mountain lions have been limited primarily to the West since the 1920's.
For many, the mountain lion is the quintessential symbol of wilderness: a large animal ranging freely in wild areas independent of human interference. Cougars are the largest carnivore in the north coast redwood parks. Cougars are at the top of the food chain and therefore serve as an indicator of the ecosystem's health. When in mountain lion habitat, it is critical to understand the behaviors that cats use to survive. You can then act accordingly to protect yourself and these animals in their native habitat.
Hiker Safety Tips
Don't run. Mountain lions are likely to chase things that run, since they associate running with prey.
Do not bend over or crouch down; try to appear as large as possible. Attempts to hide are likely to be unsuccessful; mountain lions see most people long before people spot them.
Hold your ground or move away slowly while facing the lion.
If you have little children with you, pick them up without bending over.
If the lion behaves aggressively, wave your hands, shout, and throw sticks or stones at it.
If attacked, face the cat and fight back.
Report any lion sightings to a ranger immediately.
Backcountry Livestock
Horses, burros and llamas are allowed in the park. Corrals with horses for hire are open mid-May through Sep. If you are planning a trip on or near the opening date for a particular area it is your responsibility to contact the Parks' Wilderness Management Office at 559-565-3761 for the latest update on conditions for grazing. Note that the opening dates only restrict grazing; pack trips prior to the opening dates are permitted as long as all feed is packed in and stock remain tied up at all times. Available forage is very scarce between Crescent Meadow and Kaweah Gap; Lone Pine Meadow is the best stock campsite. In the Kern Canyon, Upper Funston Meadow is limited to 12 head for 48 hours grazing. Near Crabtree Meadows, Timberline Lake is closed to all camping and grazing.
Stock Regulations
"No trace" camping is standard practice in the wilderness. Proper stock use is an important way for you to minimize impacts, adequately care for your animals, and help to preserve wilderness access privileges. Everyone in your party should be familiar with the following guidelines and regulations for wilderness stock use. You will receive a copy of these regulations when you pick up your wilderness permit.
Planning your trip
The Forage Area Guide describes the designated forage areas and grazing regulations. It is available through the Wilderness Office. Use it to select areas where your stock can graze with minimum impact. An on-line copy of the Forage Area Guide will be available in the future.
Opening dates are established to protect meadows from stock impacts while they are wet and soft. Grazing is not permitted prior to these dates. Take only as many animals as necessary to make your trip successful; use lightweight, compact equipment to minimize the number of pack animals you'll need. Maximum number of stock allowed per party is 20. Some areas have lower limits.
On the trail
Stock are restricted to maintained trails in most areas. You may travel up to 0.5 mile from trails to reach a campsite.
Off-trail stock use is permitted only in certain areas; check the Forage Area Guide or grazing regulations.
Please reduce impacts by riding in the center of the trail. Shortcutting trails and switchbacks is prohibited. Riding off-trail to avoid sandy, muddy or rocky spots causes additional damage to the trail. Ride over, not around, water bars, causeways and riprap. Move trail obstacles instead of skirting them.
Double-rope (a lead rope around both sides of the animal ahead) string animals that habitually walk off-trail. Notify a ranger of obstacles or problems.
Please use tact and courtesy with hikers when asking for the right-of-way. Ask hikers to step off the trail on the downhill side in plain view and to remain still until stock have passed.
If any of your stock dies in the backcountry, notify a ranger as soon as possible for help in properly disposing of the animal. Dead stock must be moved at least 300 ft from trails, campsites and water within 72 hours.
Around Camp
As a general rule, stock should be confined as little as possible. Restless, restrained animals trample vegetation, paw up tree roots and debark trees. However, stock must be restrained at all times prior to the grazing opening dates or in areas closed to grazing. Carry substitute feed (processed hay pellets, cubes or weed-free hay) in these areas. Use nosebags or lay feed out on a tarp, not on the ground.
When confinement is necessary, use existing hitch rails or a hitch line with "tree-saver" straps between two trees or rocks on a flat, hard, non-vegetated site at least 100 ft away from the trail, water and camp. Hobble animals that paw excessively.
Tie to trees only when packing or unpacking stock. Never tie to a tree smaller than 6 inches in diameter.
When leading stock to water, go downstream well away from campsites. Avoid fragile streambanks and lakeshores.
Grazing
Be sure that forage and water near your camp can support the needs of your stock. Avoid places that have already been heavily grazed, and don't stay too long in one area. Overgrazing weakens grasses, allows weeds to grow, leaves nothing for the next party, and ruins the beauty of the meadows. Some areas have length-of-stay limits; check the Forage Area Guide or grazing regulations.
Drift fences have been provided in many areas to help hold stock. When turning your stock loose to graze, examine the terrain to predict where they'll go. Use bells only on lead animals. Hobbles may be used, but will become less effective with time. Picketing and portable electric fences are permitted as long as they are moved frequently enough to prevent trampling and overgrazing. If you use these methods, try restraining only enough animals to keep the rest from straying. To minimize risk of injury, introduce stock to hobbles, picketing and electric fences at home, not in the wilderness.
Your stock will be easier to catch if they are trained beforehand to expect grain.
Leaving Camp
Carry a rake to fill in pawed-up areas and scatter all manure piles when you leave camp. Remove all manure from within 100 ft of the campsite to reduce odors and insect problems, and to maintain the appearance of the site. Pack out everything you packed in! Leave nothing behind!
Stables in the Park
Cedar Grove Pack Station
PO Box 295
Three Rivers, CA 93271
Grant Grove Stables
PO Box 295
Three Rivers, CA 93271
Mineral King Pack Station
Summer: PO Box 63
Sequoia National Park, CA 93262-0063
Winter: 3287 N. Palo Verde Blvd
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404
Wolverton Pack Station (near Lodgepole/Giant Forest)
Summer: PO Box 63
Sequoia National Park, CA 93262-0063
Winter: 3287 N. Palo Verde Blvd
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404
The High Sierra Trail from Giant Forest to the Summit of Mount Whitney
Only seasoned hikers with good trail experience and in first-class physical condition should take this trip. Backcountry permits for the High Sierra Trail from Giant Forest are issued at the Lodgepole Visitor Center's backcountry office. Permits are required for all overnight hikes in Sequoia National Park. Permits may be reserved no later than 3 weeks before the start of your trip. Even if you have reserved a permit, you must still check in at Lodgepole prior to starting on your trip.
About the Trip
The High Sierra Trail leads from Crescent Meadow up the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, crossing the Great Western Divide by the 10,700 ft / 3261 m pass known as Kaweah Gap. It descends into Big Arroyo, then climbs up to the Chagoopa Plateau, and drops down again into the Kern River Canyon. After running up the bottom of the Kern Canyon, it turns east, climbing parallel to Wallace Creek up to the junction with the John Muir Trail, 49 miles / 79 km from the starting point. You can then follow the John Muir Trail about 13 more miles / 21 km to the summit of Mount Whitney. Stock travelers will find some restrictions on their trip, both natural and those imposed by the park to preserve the natural beauty we come to enjoy. Backpackers should encounter no difficulties, if reasonable distances are taken each day. The campsites suggested in the following description are for hikers with a minimum amount of time to make the trek to Mt. Whitney. For hikers with more time, a summary of distances between the alternate campsites mentioned is given at the end of this description.
Day 1
To Bearpaw Meadow (11.4 mi/18.2 km): The trail leaves from Crescent Meadow on the southeast edge of the Giant Forest. For the first half-mile, the trail travels through shady, well-watered terrain covered with dense forests of red and white fir, sugar pines, and occasional giant sequoias. The trail then emerges onto a warm, south-facing slope at Eagle View. From here, you can see back to Moro Rock to the west, down to the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, and ahead to the glaciated peaks of the Great Western Divide. The nearly-level trail then passes through part of the area burned by the Buckeye Fire in 1980. Spring-fed streams cross the trail late into the season.
Beyond the junction with the Seven Mile Hill Trail, which connects the High Sierra and Alta Trails, the trail crosses the steep slopes and bluffs of the south side of Alta Meadow and Alta Peak. During 1930, a trail crew working with an air compressor and rock drills spent nearly the entire summer blasting a 1 mile / 1.6 km stretch of trail through this area.
Hikers taking a more leisurely trek to Mt. Whitney may wish to camp along one of the two forks of Nine Mile Creek (8.8 mi/14.1 km). After passing Nine Mile Creek, the trail descends to Buck Canyon, a spectacular canyon well-known for floods, avalanches and rockslides. The Buck Creek crossing may be hazardous early in the summer. Be sure to check on the conditions here when you pick up your permit. After crossing Buck Creek, the trail climbs some 500 ft in slightly over a mile (152 m in 1.6 km), arriving at the Bearpaw Meadow area (11.4 mi/18.2 km) from the trailhead. In addition to camp sites, this is the location of the Bearpaw Meadow Camp, a simple tent hotel run by the park concessionaire (reservations required).
Day 2
To Big Arroyo Junction (11 mi/17.6 km): East of Bearpaw, you begin your ascent into the Great Western Divide. After passing some nice campsites at Lone Pine Creek (13.1 mi/21.0 km from the trailhead), the trail follows a long series of switchbacks, overshadowed by the Angel Wings, a sheer granite wall to the north of the trail. The route crosses Hamilton Creek just above the lower Hamilton Falls and climbs another series of switchbacks to Big Hamilton Lake (16.6 mi/26.6 km). The popular campsites here offer outstanding views and fair to good fishing for brook, rainbow and golden trout.
Beyond Big Hamilton Lake, there is nowhere to go but up! The climb begins with a series of sweeping switchbacks across the bluffs to the north of the lake, before turning east towards the sheer-walled avalanche chute known as Hamilton Gorge. In 1932, Park Service engineers erected a steel suspension bridge across the Gorge, but in the winter of 1937, a massive avalanche tore the bridge from its moorings and swept its twisted wreckage down to the shores of Big Hamilton Lake. You can still see the bridge's concrete foundations and a few scrap metal remains, but the trail now uses a ledge and tunnel that were blasted by the Civilian Conservation Corps the next summer.
East of Hamilton Gorge, the trail enters the alpine life zone of the Sierras, a region where the short growing season, avalanches and lack of soil make life impossible for plants other than herbs and low shrubs. Precipice Lake, which is nestled beneath the north wall of Eagle Scout Peak, often stays frozen into mid-summer. Beyond the lake, the route passes a series of shallow glacial ponds, to finally arrive at Kaweah Gap on the Great Western Divide (20 mi/32 km). From this pass at 10,700 ft (3261 m) it is only a few hundred vertical feet down to the open valley of the Big Arroyo. The trail continues a steady to moderate descent to the campsites at Big Arroyo Junction (22.5 mi/36 km).
Day 3
To Moraine Lake (8 mi/12.8 km) or Upper Funston Meadow (12 mi/19.2 km): After 2 strenuous days of hiking, the journey from Big Arroyo to Moraine Lake is relatively easy. If you have a tighter schedule, you may wish to bypass Moraine Lake, an extra .8 mi/1.3 km, and proceed directly to Upper Funston Meadow, at the bottom of the Kern Trench.
After leaving Big Arroyo Junction, the trail makes a moderate ascent up the north wall of the Big Arroyo, providing views of the east side of the Great Western Divide. Once it reaches the Chagoopa Plateau, the trail levels off, and soon reaches a junction on a tributary of Chagoopa Creek. The right-hand trail branches off from the main High Sierra Trail to Moraine Lake (30 mi/48 km from Crescent Meadow). The left-hand trail follows a more direct route across the Chagoopa Plateau, rejoining the Moraine Lake Trail at Sky Parlor Meadow (30.8 mi/49.3 km). From here, it descends to the bottom of the Kern Trench. The drop is moderate at first, but concludes with a series of steep, rocky switchbacks. This stretch of the trail can be long and dry, so be sure to fill your water bottles at Sky Parlor Meadow. To reach Upper Funston Meadow (34.5 mi/55.2 km), turn south (right) upon reaching the bottom of the canyon.
Day 4
To Junction Meadow (13.7 mi/21.9 km from Moraine Lake, 9.7 mi/15.5 km from Upper Funston): If you are coming from Moraine Lake, continue about 1 mile (1.6 km) beyond the lake to rejoin the High Sierra Trail at Sky Parlor Meadow. Descend into the Kern Trench, but turn north (left) upon reaching the bottom. If you are coming from Upper Funston, retrace your steps to the junction with the trail from the Chagoopa plateau, and continue north along the bottom of the canyon.
The Kern River Trail drops into a marshy area beyond the junction, then leads through a forest of Jeffrey pine and incense-cedar. Keep an eye through the trees to the west to catch a glimpse of Chagoopa Falls tumbling down from the rim of the canyon. At 36.8 mi/58.9 km from the trailhead (excluding the side-trip to Moraine Lake), you will arrive at Kern Hot Springs, complete with a crude cement bathtub in which to soak your aching muscles. The water from the spring is 115 degree F (46 degrees C). The tub is only a few feet from the cold, rushing Kern River, and runoff from the tub mixes with river water to create a warm pool, allowing you your choice of temperatures for bathing. (Please, no soap in the river or tub.) If your schedule allows, you may wish to camp here, but you must stay in the designated camp sites, which are often heavily used.
Beyond Kern Hot Spring, the trail continues along the bottom of the glaciated valley of the Kern River. This canyon runs almost due north and south for about 25 miles (40 km) along the Kern Canyon fault. The trail ascends steadily to Junction Meadow (42 mi/67.2 km). Hiking along the bottom of the canyon can be hot and dry during the middle of the day. If you have camped at Kern Hot Springs, however, remember that cold air from the surrounding peaks flows down the canyon at night, and that the sun will not clear the 2,000 to 5,000 ft (610 to 1,524 m) high canyon walls until relatively late in the morning.
Day 5
To Crabtree Meadow (8.9 mi/14.2 km): Leave the park-like Jeffrey pines of Junction Meadow and cross a steep, rocky slope covered with manzanita and currant. Soon, the trail begins to climb out of the Kern Canyon, offering increasingly impressive views of the canyon to the south, and west to the Kaweah Peaks, which were to the east of you three days ago when you came over Kaweah Gap. At 48.9 miles from the trailhead (78.2 km), you will reach the junction with the John Muir Trail, which runs from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mt Whitney. There are campsites here, as well as at Crabtree Meadow (53.1 mi/85 km). Guitar Lake (56.6 mi/90.6 km) is the last campsite with water before the summit of Mt Whitney.
Day 6
To the summit of Mt Whitney: If you have arranged for transportation from Whitney Portal and this is the last day of your trip, this will be a long day (19.1 mi/30.6 km). You may also camp at Trail Camp (65.7 mi/105.1 km from the trailhead) or Outpost Camp (68.7 mi/109.9 km) on the east side. If you are hiking back to Giant Forest, plan to return to Crabtree Meadow (round trip to the summit, 16.8 mi/26.8 km).
The final climb begins with a moderate traverse along the "back" side of Mt Whitney; then the trail begins its switchbacking climb to Trail Crest, the divide between the west and east sides of the Sierras. Fill your water bottles before starting on this climb; there is no reliable water supply between Guitar Lake and Trail Camp on the east side. A hundred yards (91 meters) below Trail Crest, you will find the 2.4 mile (3.8 km) spur trail to the summit of Mt Whitney. If you wish to leave your backpack at this junction while you make the climb to the summit, be sure your food is secure from the hungry marmots who frequent this area. The trail to the summit follows an open, rocky route along the west side of the Sierra crest.
The windswept, barren summit of Mt Whitney is home to hardy flocks of rosy finches. When not looking for handouts from hikers (please remember that feeding animals in a National Park is illegal), these tame little brown and pink birds eat, among other things, insects that have been blown upslope from lower elevations and have become trapped in melting ice or frozen on the surface of snow fields.
The Mount Whitney Hut was built at the summit in 1909 as a station for meteorological observations. The metal roof of this hut attracts lightning which can be conducted through the building to individuals inside. Do not seek shelter here during a storm. It is unsafe to be anywhere on top of the mountain or any exposed high place during a thunderstorm. Check the weather conditions before beginning the hike to the summit.
After returning to Trail Crest, hikers heading out to Whitney Portal will descend 100 switchbacks to Trail Camp, a popular camping area for hikers coming from the east side. Although often crowded, this site offers an impressive early morning view of the rising sun's light striking Mt Whitney. If you camp here, however, be aware that the sun drops behind the crest of the Sierras fairly early in the evening, and at 12,000 ft / 3658 m, the air cools down quickly. If you keep going, the rocky trail follows Lone Pine Creek down to Mirror Lake, a glacial cirque that is closed to camping, then continues along the creek to Outpost Camp, the last camping before Whitney Portal.
Day 7
(if returning to Giant Forest) - to Kern Hot Springs (14.5 mi/23.2 km) or Upper Funston Meadow (18.5 mi./29.6 km): Retrace your previous route.
Day 8
To Big Arroyo (12 mi/19.2 km from Kern Hot Springs; 8 miles/12.8 km from Upper Funston): Retrace your previous route.
Day 9
Explore Nine Lakes Basin and return via Kaweah Gap to Hamilton Lakes (4.8 mi/7.7 km plus side trip): An unmarked trail leaves the High Sierra Trail at the point where it turns west and begins the climb up the east side of Kaweah Gap. Follow this unmarked trail north if you wish to take a side trip to the Nine Lakes Basin. If you plan to hike in this or any off-trail area, always carry a topo map and compass, and be sure you know how to use them.
Day 10
To Crescent Meadow via the High Sierra Trail (15.5 mi/25 km): Retrace your previous route.
Summary of distances along the High Sierra Trail
| Campsite | Previous Point | Crescent Meadow | Whitney Portal |
| Crescent Meadow | 0.0 | 0.0 | 72.2 mi./115.5 km@ |
| Nine Mile Creek | 8.8 mi./14.1 km | 8.8 mi./14.1 km | 63.4 mi./101.4 km@ |
| Bearpaw Meadow | 2.6 mi./4.2 km | 11.4 mi./18.2 km | 60.8 mi./97.3 km@ |
| Lone Pine Creek | 1.7 mi./2.7 km | 13.1 mi./21.0 km | 59.1 mi./94.6 km@ |
| Big Hamilton Lake | 3.5 mi./5.6 km | 16.6 mi./26.6 km | 55.6 mi./89.0 km@ |
| Big Arroyo Junction | 5.9 mi./9.4 km | 22.5 mi./36.0 km | 49.7 mi./79.5 km@ |
| Moraine Lake * | 8.0 mi./12.8 km | 30.5 mi./48.8 km | 41.7 mi./66.7 km@ |
| Upper Funston Meadow | 12.0 mi./19.2 km# | 34.5 mi./55.2 km | 37.7 mi./60.3 km@ |
| Kern Hot Spring | 2.3 mi./3.7 km | 36.8 mi./58.9 km | 35.4 mi./56.6 km@ |
| Junction Meadow | 7.4 mi./11.8 km | 44.2 mi./70.7 km | 28.0 mi./44.8 km@ |
| Wallace Creek Junction | 4.7 mi./7.5 km | 48.9 mi./78.2 km | 23.3 mi./37.3 km@ |
| Crabtree Ranger Station | 4.2 mi./6.7 km | 53.1 mi./85.0 km | 19.1 mi./30.6 km@ |
| Guitar Lake | 3.5 mi./5.6 km | 56.6 mi./90.6 km | 15.6 mi./25.0 km@ |
| Mt. Whitney Summit | 4.9 mi./7.8 km | 61.5 mi./98.4 km | 10.7 mi./17.1 km |
| Trail Camp | 4.2 mi./6.7 km | 65.7 mi./105.1 km@ | 8.3 mi./13.3 km |
| Outpost Camp | 3.0 mi./4.8 km | 68.7 mi./109.9 km@ | 6.5 mi./10.4 km |
| Whitney Portal | 3.5 mi./5.6 km | 72.2 mi./115.5 km@ | 3.5 mi./5.6 km |
* If you take the side trip to Moraine Lake, add .8 mi / 1.3 km to all subsequent distances.
# From Big Arroyo Junction, excluding trip to Moraine Lake.
@ The climb to the summit includes a 2.4-mile (each way) spur trail. These distances include the 4.8 mile side trip to the summit.
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