Kearsarge Pass

Colby Marie
Mar 5, 2018
2 min read

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.