Monarch Lakes Trail
![](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-3-2560x633-1.jpg)
Table of contents
The Monarch Lakes Trail uncovers the beauty of the alpine environment in the Sequoia National Park. Explore the picture-perfect setting of montane meadows and crystalline lakes framed by the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada—this scenic adventure is unrivaled.
Route Description for Monarch Lakes Trail
Though challenging, the Monarch Lakes Trail is well worth the effort. Reserved for experienced hikers and intrepid adventurers, this trek demands stamina and proper gear. Make sure to pack plenty of water or a water filter, and be sure to wear a sturdy pair of footwear as the terrain is very rocky! As much of the route travels above the timberline, it is important to be mindful of afternoon storms and dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions! Note entrance to the park costs $35USD per vehicle or $20USD per person for pedestrians or cyclists.
Setting out from the Sawtooth Trailhead, the Monarch Lakes Hike follows the Sawtooth Pass Trail up switchbacks to a junction located amid a lush meadow adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Here, veer right, and you will be directed over Monarch Creek and up another collection of tightly wound switchbacks. Here you will likely be in the company of marmots—so don’t leave your snacks out! At the following junction, keep left, and the increasingly exposed path offers views of Mineral Peak, Sawtooth Peak, and the valley below.
Continue along this route, and you will ultimately reach the Monarch Lakes. Mind your footing on the rocky terrain around the lakes and revel in the scene of the craggy ridges anchored by the Sierra Nevada summits. Admire the beauty of the high country, then head back the way you came.
Getting to the Monarch Lakes Trail Trailhead
The Monarch Lakes Trail is accessed via the Sawtooth Trailhead off Mineral King Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Backcountry Camping, wilderness permits required.
When to do:
June-October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Monarch Lakes Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
![Pinto Lake Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Pinto Lake Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Cold Springs Nature Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-4-2560x633-1.jpg)
Cold Springs Nature Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![White Chief Canyon Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-4-2560x633-1.jpg)
White Chief Canyon Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Timber Gap Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-2-2560x633-1.jpg)
Timber Gap Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Columbine Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Columbine Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Crystal Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-3-2560x633-1.jpg)
Crystal Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Middle Fork Kaweah Falls Hike](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Middle Fork Kaweah Falls Hike
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Paradise Ridge Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-1-2560x633-1.jpg)
Paradise Ridge Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Franklin Lakes Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-2-2560x633-1.jpg)
Franklin Lakes Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![First Mosquito Lake Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-3-2560x633-1.jpg)
First Mosquito Lake Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Eagle and Mosquito Lakes Hike](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-4-2560x633-1.jpg)
Eagle and Mosquito Lakes Hike
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
![Paradise Creek Trail](https://d3owbckoeihl9o.cloudfront.net/images/10adv/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Dummy-2-2560x633-1.jpg)
Paradise Creek Trail
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks