Overview
Out-and-back trail featuring multiple lakes, rushing streams, waterfalls and panoramic views. You’ll pass five lakes on the way up to the pass. The top of the windy pass overlooks the valley and scenic Kearsarge lakes. Part of the John Muir Wildness, you’ll see many hikers restocking or hiking to enter a portion of the John Muir Trail.
Nearby Hikes: Little Lakes Valley Trailhead to Gem Lakes, Big Pines Lakes Trail, Mosquito Flat Trailhead to Mono Pass & Mount Star
Logistics
Location: John Muir Wilderness, Inyo National Forest
Distance: 9.3 miles roundtrip (Top of Kearsage Pass and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Our Hike Time: 4 hours, 35 min
Route Type: Out-and-back
Elevation gain: 2,369 feet to 11,760 feet
Trailhead: Onion Valley Trailhead
Costs: None
When to go: June – Oct
Dogs Allowed: Yes (leashed)
Permits Required: Not for day use but required for overnight camping.
Where to Stay: Onion Valley Campground near the trailhead for $21/night or apply for a permit to camp on the trail. The backcountry permits you must obtain are called “Kearsarge Pass JM31” and are $5 per person plus a $10 reservation fee. All unused reservation space and 40% of the quota space is available on a walk-in basis starting at 11 a.m. one day before the trip entry date. Permits go quickly so be sure to secure your spot!
Tips
Get an early start (8am).
Eat lunch at the large flat rock at Gilbert Lake, beautiful scenery.
Bring layers to put on as your approach Kearsarge Pass. It's cold and windy at the top.
If you pass through the town of Big Pine on your drive home, stop for BBQ at Copper Top BBQ or visit Manzanar for a quick history lesson on one of the ten American concentration camps from WWII.
Current Trail Conditions
Check out AllTrails for recent trail reviews and updates.
Onion Valley Campground
