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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
979 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.5 km
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.
6-8h
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

​Pear Lake Winter Route Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Pear Lake Winter Route is a breathtaking trail through the granite oasis. Explore the High Sierra year-round along this scenic trail that will surely push your limits. Though taxing, this incredible adventure is highly rewarding.

Route Description for ​Pear Lake Winter Route Hike

Open year-round, this route is a popular detour for those seeking to visit Heather Lake, Emerald Lake, or Pear Lake, as the Watchtower Trail is closed after snowfall. Though equally, if not more picturesque in the winter months, snow cloaked paths present inherent challenges. Microspikes and trekking poles are highly recommended! Dress in layers and be mindful of afternoon altitude storms as you travel into the exposed alpine terrain. Be prepared for sudden weather shifts and pack plenty of food and water.

Setting out from the Lakes Trailhead, the Pear Lake Winter Route follows the Lakes Trail eastwardly, along the top of Topokah Valley. Traveling along Wolverton Creek, you will ultimately reach an intersection. Keep left here, and you will quickly encounter another junction. In the winter months, your only option is to keep right onto The Hump. Take your time navigating this steep ascent, and you will eventually reconnect with the Lakes. Trail. Beyond this point, the terrain plateaus and becomes more manageable. Venture past the Heather Lake and to Emerald Lake.

Revel in the beauty of this granite oasis and continue on to Pear Lake. Admire the scene of the shimmering alpine basin framed by the looming ridges anchored by Atlas Peak. Stay the night at the campsite, or head back the way you came to the trailhead.

Getting to the ​Pear Lake Winter Route Hike Trailhead

Access this hike via the Lakes Trailhead off Wolverton Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Backcountry Camping, wilderness permits required.

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

​Pear Lake Winter Route Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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