High Sierra Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5.5-8h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
914 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The High Sierra Trail is a beautiful trek through the Sequoia National Park that offers a wealth of scenery, including amazing mountain views, lush sequoia groves, and montane meadows. If you are seeking a scenic and stimulating trek, then you have come to the right place.

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Route Description for High Sierra Trail

Immerse yourself in the High Sierra and revel in the beauty and grandeur of the mountainous landscape along this trek. The beauty of a one-way hike is the refreshing scenery that you are rewarded with every step of the way—just remember to arrange a pick up or drop off a car at the path’s end before heading out! Traveling through a variety of terrains at high elevations, we encourage you to dress in layers and wear a sturdy pair of footwear. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled too! Note entrance to the park costs $35USD per vehicle or $20USD per person for pedestrians or cyclists.

Setting out from the High Sierra Trailhead off the Crescent Meadow Road, the High Sierra Trail will guide you southeast to an overlook of the lush Crescent Meadow before reaching Eagle View—an epic lookout over the Great Western Divide. From here, the path will weave between meadows and woodlands along the slopes of Panther Peak. After rainfall, you will likely have to do some stream hopping. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection, keep left here, and you will be diverted onto the Sevenmile Hill Trail.

Intersecting with Mehrten Creek, you will soon merge left onto Alta Trail, which will lead you to the Panther Gap. From here, the Panther Gap Trail wanders along Wolverton Creek through meadows before turning left onto the Lakes Trail. Follow this path to the trailhead, which marks the end of your adventure.

Getting to the High Sierra Trail Trailhead

Access this hike via the trailhead off Crescent Meadow Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    One Way

High Sierra Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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High Sierra Trail Reviews

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