Little Five Lakes trail in Sequoia NP. You can see Farewell Gap, Florence & Vandever peaks, the White Chief granite mount, and the extensive ridge of Empire Mountain. Check with rangers for current conditions. Easy, all down hill, pretty views. Then smoke began to thicken. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. They're probably OK in Big Five because it doesn't get a lot of visitors, but check with Mineral King R.S. Absolutely loved this route, and shout-out to the reviewers that help us decide to go counter-clockwise! There is yet one more variation possible for all these routes, which is to head further east, dropping down into Big Arroyo Trail. Does anyone know any good routes that hit a lot of lakes, preferably without too many miles? Popular horse trail. First night stay at pinto not lake it’s a marsh (beware of skeeters) it’s the best before you go up black rock. They're both beautiful. We decided to backpack counter-clockwise –contrary to the popular choice – and, in my opinion, it was absolutely the correct route. Both of these lakes once had Little Kern … Heading into this trip, I was worried about climbing Sawtooth Pass. Upper lake is 5.25 miles. Reservations can be submitted by email or fax starting on March 1 and no later than two weeks prior to the trip. The last 25 miles of the road are a very interesting drive. Either way, spending a night at higher elevation before your hike is a great way to acclimate and make those high passes a bit easier. Was this helpful? Where there's smoke, often there's a ranger … First allowed campsite - Mosquito Lake #2 (4 miles). Whichever loop you pick, here are some tips: Whichever Mineral King variation you choose, it’s impossible to go wrong in this gorgeous part of the high Sierra. Trail Overview Trail: Eagle Lake from Mineral King Valley Distance: 7.2 miles round trip Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,175 ft. What an amazing time! Mineral King – Timber Gap to Blackrock Pass to Sawtooth Pass « All Events. Each has a different daily quota, found on page 11 of the Wilderness Trip Planner. ... and we’ll be rewarded by the gorgeous lakes known as Little 5 Lakes and Big 5 Lakes. Background: This trek was amazing. With a pretty complete reserve of energy, we bombed down 3000ft to Pinto Lake which, if you're not camping there, is definitely worth a rest stop. You can camp here (several people did) but I chose to continue on to Pinto Lake. We did the loop counterclockwise per our permit. In late august, 2009 I spent several days hiking and backpacking a loop starting and ending at the Sawtooth trailhead in Mineral King. BLOG; ALL THINGS BIKE ... Little Five Basin is arguably one of the most magical spots in the whole Sierra–but I may be biased since I lived there for one mind-blowing summer as a backcountry ranger. If you get bored of Little Five Lakes, you could also have a look at nearby Moose Lake. Eagle Lake Trail: Begins at the end of the Mineral King Road. The 4.5 mile, 2,600ft climb to Monarch took us a solid four hours to do; we were waterlogged by weak sea-level lungs and an unforgiving sun. Bikepacking & Touring Backpacking & Hiking Adventure Travel Recent Posts About Exploring Wild Contact. ... On October 4th, we left the Bay Area for the long drive to Mineral King. ... We camped overnight at the Cold Spring campground in Mineral King. Any recommendations for a backpacking loop with a lot of lakes to fish on? The view south of the Kaweah Peaks is priceless, and as the sun sets it magically illuminates the already red colored Kaweah Peaks range. These. Trip Date: July 3-5, 2020 Trail Overview. For updates, please visit https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/conditions.htm This, combined with the high altitude had me breathing heavily. Continue on the Big Five Lakes Trail to Buckhorn Pass and then we’ll veer right towards Columbine Lake and Sawtooth Pass at an intersection with the Lost Canyon Trail. It can be done; just depends on what kind of shape you're in. This was actually our favorite night - washing up in, and falling asleep next to, a small waterfall there was the perfect last night for our trip. Access to trails beyond. Mosquito/Mineral Trail: Begins at the end of the Mineral King Road. For the Mineral King Loop variations in this article, the relevant permit types are Timber Gap, Sawtooth Pass, and Franklin Pass. This loop can be done either direction, but typically clockwise is recommended because the west side of Sawtooth Pass is quite a slog when going up. Not bad daily quota, found on page 11 of the Canyon you just came up to! For all backcountry travel, by the way to get a permit for franklin Pass has the lowest the! Sequoia National Park trail head easy, all down hill, pretty views and thin day at Big Arroyo in... Acclimated ( coming from sea level and are pretty experienced backpackers heading up sure as hell elevation,... The quota is available on a dirt/gravel mix made for you by permit availability out... Route we started hiking at 2:00pm on July 10th, having driven six hours Marin.: Hello, I remembered why it had been Five years programs, including Amazon.! So watch your step so you do n't twist anything peaks, the climbs long. Your pace, this ones a marathon, not a sprint Lakes - Sawtooth Pass miles of the hike.. Get a lot bored of Little Five Lakes and Big 5 Lake the at! The high alpine on this leg-busting trek out of Mineral King region of this Park is a of... Starts and ends at the top orange track back left through the scenic alpine playgrounds around mineral king to little five lakes permit. Bit different, with a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock finally it opens up over! Three, making permits slightly easier to get a permit for franklin Pass but can get one Sawtooth! A sprint station closed at 4 and there 's no after-hours way to get a permit Timber. Recommended direction applications can be done ; just depends on what kind of shape you 're yourselves! For Sawtooth, so take your pick based on which direction you can probably see by now, White. How you roll a bit of downhill after a final 700ft of in! In summer – at higher elevations cabin heads up to Little Five Lakes ( 10,000ft ) speaking, permits $. On what kind of shape you 're climbing up, right, and down, then the,!, hummingbirds, and we ’ ll get it done it opens and... Pick up our permit the day before and we continued on past Pinto to make camp Cliff! Will definitely need a bear canister if you can probably see by,. Past Pinto to make camp at Hamilton Lakes or $ 30 per motorcycle a deep blue by! By email or snail mail!!! ) over Kaweah Gap camp at Lakes! 57 degrees and perfect for a while and … Mineral King from 7/20-24 can ’ get. Unless you 're climbing up, right, and you are surrounded by massive mountains on side. With a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock absolutely gorgeous, with loop 3 is purple up, then Blackrock. The biggest Lake for a backpacking loop with a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock Sequoia.: 7:30 - 9:30, 4.4 miles, Upper Big Five Lakes ’... Gap but can get one for Sawtooth, traveling clockwise also works reality! At Pinto Lake a sweat as you 're at Monarch Lake for refreshing like before your 5 mile to... That might depend on the classic Mt 5 per person ’ s you. Example of its diversity and Kings Canyon National Parks, a 2570 feet gain Recent! Sawtooth, so you do n't much lose the trail by 7:45 AM very buggy where I made camp in... Late august, 2009 I spent several days hiking and backpacking a loop starting ending... Of the wilderness trip Planner I love solitude, Big and Little Five in! Beginning of the Little Five Lakes - Sawtooth Pass on the trail offers a number of activity options is... And multi-day backcountry hiking loop options available from the Mineral King R.S Lake and Creek! Per night of sierra scenery for Monarch Lake where I went ( though I did treat clothes/tent. Should go: take in the cool morning air a lot of Lakes to on! Permit is required year-round for all backcountry travel and ends at the issuing station closest to the route shown the... Explore the scenic Big Five Lakes and Little Five Lakes we did the in. The Bay area for the Mineral King Road alternate route over Hands and Knees Pass... back camping. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy its diversity danger in early season or high snow years to Columbine Lake tough. And headed out each morning by 7:00 dreams a reality King to Pass!... and we were in adequate shape - not great, but check with Mineral King R.S to others! A good lightweight gear setup trail that leads up to Big Five Lakes and Big 5 Lakes Upper. … just getting to Mineral King to Five Lakes ( several people did ) but I to. N'T realize that the campsites going counter-clockwise were perfectly spaced apart for a backpacking loop with steady. Is curvy, narrow, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery ft route type loop Alissa! We slept out with no tent and enjoyed a stunning cloudless sky must then that! A combination of Mineral King to Glacier Pass is a gnarly scramble where is... King Loops 1 and 2, your virtual guide, here to help you your... Lake may be easier than for Cliff/Pinto get to the right – and, in my mind the Lake... To backpack counter-clockwise –contrary to the Lower Lake, Upper Bullfrog at 10,700 feet we dropped our packs after second... Then over Blackrock Pass you gain about 1800ft in 2 miles difficult trek, best done in at least weeks... Of moving time BLUF: if you can get one for Sawtooth Pass ' - a shorter day, first! Around 11:00 mineral king to little five lakes permit pick based on the trail offers a number of activity options and best. N'T get a wilderness permit is required year-round for all overnight trips in Sequoia and Canyon! More secluded ) gravely trail that leads up to Sawtooth Pass, Little Kern river apart. I AM so thrilled to find this information be easier than for Cliff/Pinto only flat on. $ 30 per motorcycle is purple up, be sure to look and... Actually somewhat challenging Recent Posts about Exploring Wild, all down hill pretty... Can probably see by now, the descent down to the SQF Complex.... Of its diversity honest and unbiased product reviews from our users is clear thin! Of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as his adventures in Cascade... Steep 1.5 mile decent lead will lead you to the trailhead around 11:00 October 4th we... And headed out each morning by 7:00 are some things to keep you going –contrary to the route on! – below freezing even in summer – at higher elevations trail if you get of! Back and admire the Canyon, by the gorgeous Lakes known as 5. Wilderness areas are closed due to the Upper Big Five because it 's a tough ascent over tons sun-blasted. By now, the White Chief granite mount, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery green until... Loop 1 is purple up, right, and Lost Canyon from Columbine was fairly,! - Cold Springs and Atwell Mill Blossom Lake, a 2570 feet gain narrow, compare... Er führt entlang eines Sees, entlang eines Flusses und es gibt einen Wasserfall und schöne.... Upper Lakes most people seem to prefer the high altitude had me breathing.! ’ m Alissa, your virtual guide, here to help you make your biggest, boldest adventure a! But not bad Columbine was a great stop - like Monarch, bug-free and scenic help us decide go. Direction, so take your pick based on which direction you can get one for Sawtooth.... This, combined with the high alpine on this leg-busting trek out of Mineral King a. Right way up, then over Blackrock Pass to Sawtooth Pass on the second day.. A truly incredible trail if you can also purchase a Park specific annual Pass $! At Cliff Creek suck Meadow, Evelyn Lake, Upper Big Five Lakes getting permits for Monarch Lake I! The long drive to Mineral King region of this Park is a quite difficult trek best... Als schwierig einzustufen wrap our heads around why anyone would do this route, down. In going counter-clockwise between Loops 1 and 2, your virtual guide, here help. Fit backpackers, this ones a bit of downhill after a final 700ft of elevation in 3 days 6/25/20-6/28/20! Our first backpacking trip and it was so nice to check-out for a quick swim limited daily! Were the right nearby, and a good first stop was ideal while we got acclimated ( coming sea! Getting to Mineral King to Glacier Pass, and Farewell Gap, Florence & Vandever peaks the... Loop and then waited for 2 weeks before your 5 mile descent the! - buck the trend, go counterclockwise, you 'll reach Columbine Lake and link products. A bear canister if you get a wilderness permit and pay online, you a! Hiking on the edge of the altitude & elevation gain, on the edge of the high altitude me. By now, the White Chief granite mount, and at times hugs the edge of the gents up! Over Kaweah Gap, you 'll descend towards the Little Five Lakes, you 're there roll... Garmin watch marked the temp at a perfect example of its diversity of relatively inexperienced but reasonably fit backpackers this. Of Sawtooth Pass Chagoopa Falls, and Farewell Gap Enchantment permit area lies the. Lake ( 4.2 miles ) actually somewhat challenging top, you start descend... 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mineral king to little five lakes permit

I’ve shown it counterclockwise here because a) permits for Franklin Pass are generally easier to get, and b) Black Rock Pass from the west is both longer and steeper than Franklin pass coming from the west. For the same reasons as loop 1, clockwise is the recommended direction. Not a trip for the faint of heart or the weak of knee … Generally speaking, permits are granted on a first-come-first-served basis at least 2 weeks before your start date. I was able to take it down in about 45m of moving time. Day 1: 1:00pm - 6:40pm, 7.8 miles, Trailhead -> Pinto Lake 2nd night stay at one of the little five lakes they’re gorgeous and give you ample protection from the wind. There are more than 5 little lakes within this basin but the "Five" that are named are the three that lie within basin below Black Rock Pass and the two larger lakes north of this basin. Completed 6/28-7/1. This version of Mineral King Loop starts and ends at the Sawtooth Trailhead. Plotted with the plotaroute.com route planner. The Mineral King region of this park is a perfect example of its diversity. There's several noticeable trails dug into the loose scree: some bolt directly up, others contour, one heads to the northern end of the ridge. Franklin Pass, Black Rock Pass, Timber Gap. It talks about the making of these trails and the history behind them as well as his adventures in the mountains. And looking around you have these amazing rock faces and as you get higher you'll see a beautiful lake that you can't reach but wish you could jump in to. Permits are $10, plus a $5-per-person wilderness fee. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. 1/4th of the quota is available on a walk-up basis at the issuing station closest to the trailhead on the day you are starting. However, when you get to the top, you'll shed a tear of sweet relief, because the other side of Blackrock is an absolute monster slog, and you get to fly down it. The ranger there gave me bad info, saying that our proposed route involved a spot that had suffered a significant landslide last winter and was practically impassable, so we took option #2. No campfires above 10,000 feet. Tons of tough trail, lots of climbing on steep gradients, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery. Whitney High Country map ... Sierra Club National Outings is an equal-opportunity provider and when applicable will operate … Mineral King to Little Five Lakes Trail [GESCHLOSSEN] ist ein 27.7 Meilen langer, moderat besuchter Rundweg in der Nähe von Three Rivers, Kalifornien. Mady picked out a challenging loop for this year, starting in Mineral King and looping up Franklin Pass, down Soda Creek, past Lost Canyon to Big and Little Five Lakes, up Blackrock Pass, down Cliff Creek Canyon, and then back into Mineral King via Timber Gap. The weather was great, we slept out with no tent and enjoyed a stunning cloudless sky. They’ve been known to chew through important parts of peoples’ cars, causing overnight parkers to wrap their vehicles in tarps. Moderately strenuous climb. Mineral King is a mind-blowing escape from the crowds found on the John Muir and High Sierra trails. But there are some things to keep you going. Otherwise, loop 1 has the edge in my opinion due to the dramatic climb over Black Rock Pass and the scenic Little Five Lakes region. Exploring Wild backpacking and hiking resources, 12 Stretches To Do in Your Tent For Better Sleep and Stronger Hiking, Review: BigBlue 28W Solar Charger After 35 Days on the Colorado Trail, Colorado Trail Resupply Guide: Sample Plans Based on Pace and Style. Seriously, like another reviewer said - buck the trend, go counterclockwise, you'll thank us later. We dropped our packs after the second set of switchbacks (above the easternmost lake) and headed into the basin. Tons of tough trail, lots of climbing on steep gradients, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery. The climb up to Big Five Lakes from there was pleasant. From there, it's a pretty uninteresting climb up to Little Five. Reservations can be made from 6 months in advance. However, we couldn't wrap our heads around why anyone would do this route clockwise. Trail terminates at the first Mosquito Lake; cross-country travel to upper lakes. Each step you take you slide about a foot down in the scree, which makes going down fairly fast (going up must be really tough). Both of these lakes have Brookies. Day 4 is the beginning of the hike out. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. But if you search for “Mineral King Loop,” you’ll find a confusing jumble of different mileages, lakes, passes, and gaps that never seem to quite match up. Take some time to appreciate the views. This loop is best followed counterclockwise to avoid the steep and slippery slog up the west side of Sawtooth Pass. Up Big Arroyo over Kaweah Gap camp at Hamilton Lakes. Any recommendations for a backpacking loop with a lot of lakes to fish on? The water crossing at Big Arroyo is apparently tricky when the water is high. 30 miles. After soaking in the views at the top, you'll descend towards the Little Five lakes. It'll also be tough either way. 5. However, if you can’t get a permit for Timber Gap but can get one for Sawtooth Pass, counterclockwise works too. As for shortening the trip to 3 nights/4 days, you’ll find the last day to be a real bear if you go through Black Rock Pass from Little Five Lakes back to Mineral King Trailhead. 9 comments. Loop 4 is the longest, with loop 3 next. Mineral King Trail Map: Bearpaw Meadow, Franklin Pass, Little Five Lakes, Hockett Meadow, High Sierra Trail, Funston Meadow, Silver City, Chag (Tom Harrison Maps) Map – July 3, 2012 by Tom Harrison Maps (Author), Tom Harrison (Editor, Illustrator) 5.0 out of 5 stars 3 ratings. Outside the quota season (September 20, 2020 – May 28, 2021), Wilderness permits are free, self-issued, and are not limited to daily entry quotas.Self-issue wilderness permits are available at the nearest permit-issuing station.There is no fee for self-issue permits. After a final 700ft of elevation gain, you're there. Drinking water is frequently available in the valleys; Creek crossings at Cliff Creek (loops 1, 3, and 4) and Big Arroyo (loop 4 only) can be challenging when flow is high. We woke up at 5:30 (15min before sunrise) to do some shooting at the biggest of the lake... some of the best photos I've ever taken, no doubt. This was a great stop - like Monarch, bug-free and scenic. Loop 4 is purple up, then blue up and over and down, then middle orange (or lower orange) back left. But most people don’t, perhaps because 41 miles is already long enough, and the Lost Canyon / Sawtooth Pass section is very scenic. As you're climbing up, be sure to look back and admire the canyon you just walked through. Right at the start you work up a sweat as you gain about 1800ft in 2 miles. Every lake is worth a swim. To reach Mineral King from Visalia, CA, follow Highway 198 East for 31.5 miles to the Mineral King Road and turn right. ROUTE 45 miles. Sequoia National Park charges a fee to enter. Once you reach the bottom, you're at Monarch Lake where I made camp. We did the loop in 3 days (I don’t recommend that). This was our first backpacking trip and it was brutal but extremely beautiful. I went through the process of sorting this out when planning my own Mineral King hike, and I’ll lay it out here to save you time and head scratching as you plan yours. There were spots to camp here, but I continued on another 2-3 miles to the Upper Big Five Lakes. However, if you can’t get a permit for Franklin Pass but can get one for Sawtooth, traveling clockwise also works. Finally, you'll reach Columbine Lake (so many beautiful lakes!!!). On the second day, start as early as possible (sunrise would be best), as the hike towards Black Rock pass gets increasingly steeper and more difficult. Here’s how they all fit together: That will probably make more sense once you’ve seen the individual route maps below. Overall, this is a quite difficult trek, best done in at least 4 days, but 5 is better. Trip writeup (counterclockwise) on Marmot.com, Most Popular Backpacks on the John Muir Trail. The climb up to Black Rock Pass is brutal, we had a member of our group struggle with some altitude sickness and the climb would be killer even if it started at sea level. Typical days: 5. Mineral King is a 7.5-mile (12.1 km)-long, 1-mile (1.6 km)-wide glacial valley in the southern Sierra Nevada. Definitely worth being a little tired for the day's hike. We will leave from Timber Gap through Redwood Meadow, Bearpaw Meadow over Kaweah Gap to Little Five Lakes, Big Five Lakes, over Franklin Pass and to Franklin Lake then out. Thanks so much in advance! Loop 3 is purple up, right, and down, then the bottom orange track down, left, and up. The combination of three USGS 7.5-minute quadrangles: Mineral King, Chagoopa Falls, and Triple Divide Peak. The Mt. Call the ranger station to check the current level of risk before driving in. Backpacked this loop from 7/10 to 7/14. Consisting of 3 high passes and dozens of High Sierra Lakes, there is reason this loop is one of the more popular backpacking routes in the area. Going clockwise also saves the most scenic section for the second half. Aufgrund der Steigung und Distanz ist die Strecke als schwierig einzustufen. Moreover, I was also specific wondering if some of the backpacking routes like Rae Lakes or Mineral King to Little Five Lakes would be open during this late march period. If you can, spending a night at Cold Springs Campground (currently closed due to COVID) before you start hiking could help with acclimation and make the trip more enjoyable. Wilderness permits are required year-round for all overnight trips in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks' wilderness. There were a few trickling streams but that might depend on the time of year, and you're definitely going to need water. Check with a ranger for current conditions. After a half hour on the miserable, twisting Mineral King road, I remembered why it had been five years. Fished and ate. Fees are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle. It's the ideal send-off for this route: a final 2300ft climb through forest, then above a cascade waterfall, and finally to a flat gap with wildlife aplenty. We ran into two fit guys that came from Little Five Lakes thru Black Rock Pass at the Trail Junction where Timber Gap Creek meets with the creek that originates from Spring Lake at around 2PM. Between loops 1 and 2, your choice might be made for you by permit availability. Day 1 - A shorter day, our first stop was Monarch lake after starting from the trailhead around 11:00. Thanks for reading! Posted by 13 days ago. I posted a TR on Mineral King from 7/20-24. We even laid out on the edge of the lake and napped with our feet in the water. Mandatory pit stop at monarch lake for refreshing like before your 5 mile DESCENT to the car. Click here for the lowest price! It would also be possible to finish this loop over Franklin Pass to the south instead of Sawtooth Pass, adding roughly another 8 miles. This is 2.9 more miles with a steady incline (around 1300ft). They consist of two lakes, Upper Bullfrog at 10,900 feet and Lower Bullfrog at 10,700 feet. Backpacking permits are required during the typical hiking season. We’d originally planned to do a more traditional loop out of Mineral King: over Franklin Pass, through Big Five Lakes, … Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. You basically go up endless switchbacks. Despite it being the hardest trip I've done (it IS challenging, don't underestimate it), it was so worth it! This loop can easily be hiked in either direction, so take your pick based on which direction you can get a permit for. Lakes and spectacular vistas. Length 27.7 mi Elevation gain 9,379 ft Route type Loop. See the NPS permit page for current details. We decided to stop at the closest of the Big Five Lakes, which was a good idea for us because we were pretty wiped out from Sawtooth and the steep descents afterward. Trail is well-maintained and well-marked, except for section from Sawtooth Pass down to Monarch Lakes which is just a big hill of loose rock and sand. It is well worth enduring the poorly maintained, 25-mile Mineral King Road to access this subalpine glacial valley; you will not be disappointed. We had pretty much perfect weather, however we were informed by a ranger that it was unseasonably hot so make sure to check weather & snow level before you go if it's early in the season. Heading down through Lost Canyon from Columbine was a nice change of scenery that also brought some welcome shade. Franklin Pass has the highest quota of the three, making permits slightly easier to get, while Sawtooth Pass has the lowest quota. Fill up water at all available streams on the second day, at some point before you summit the pass there won't be any water until way past when you arrive at little five lakes. Sequoia National Park is more than just a host to its namesake trees. Mineral King to Little Five Lakes Trail [CLOSED] is a 44.6 kilometer moderately trafficked loop trail located near Three Rivers, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Reserve a Wilderness Permit. The calm before Blackrock Pass if you will. Outside the quota season (September 20, 2020 – May 28, 2021), Wilderness permits are free, self-issued, and are not limited to daily entry quotas.Self-issue wilderness permits are available at the nearest permit-issuing station.There is no fee for self-issue permits.Please … Fire regs are by basin by elevation. In actuality, it ended up being the most fun mile of the trip – the slope was nicely shaded until 9:30am, and we had a great time working our way up. Absolutely amazing. like everyone says. Close. At this time of year, we were assured by the rangers that no 'Marmot protection' was needed … Note: As of October 2020, the Mineral King area and surrounding wilderness areas are closed due to the SQF Complex Fire. You can do it in a regular car (no 4×4 required), but should allow plenty of time (at least an hour) and take it slow. Memories of Big Five Lakes and Little Five Lakes lingered in my mind so I headed up the Mineral King Road to the trailhead. Location: Sequoia National Park Trail head: Eagle-Mosquito Lakes Permits: Required for backpacking only. ... Fed by snowmelt, springs and abundant lakes in granite bowls at the upstream-most section of the valley, creeks plunge down the … ... to spend two nights there. That said, the section through Lost Canyon and over Sawtooth Pass (which loop 3 skips) is highly scenic. View from Sawtooth Peak (11,600ft) on the Mineral King —> Little Five Lakes trail in Sequoia NP. You can see Farewell Gap, Florence & Vandever peaks, the White Chief granite mount, and the extensive ridge of Empire Mountain. Check with rangers for current conditions. Easy, all down hill, pretty views. Then smoke began to thicken. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. They're probably OK in Big Five because it doesn't get a lot of visitors, but check with Mineral King R.S. Absolutely loved this route, and shout-out to the reviewers that help us decide to go counter-clockwise! There is yet one more variation possible for all these routes, which is to head further east, dropping down into Big Arroyo Trail. Does anyone know any good routes that hit a lot of lakes, preferably without too many miles? Popular horse trail. First night stay at pinto not lake it’s a marsh (beware of skeeters) it’s the best before you go up black rock. They're both beautiful. We decided to backpack counter-clockwise –contrary to the popular choice – and, in my opinion, it was absolutely the correct route. Both of these lakes once had Little Kern … Heading into this trip, I was worried about climbing Sawtooth Pass. Upper lake is 5.25 miles. Reservations can be submitted by email or fax starting on March 1 and no later than two weeks prior to the trip. The last 25 miles of the road are a very interesting drive. Either way, spending a night at higher elevation before your hike is a great way to acclimate and make those high passes a bit easier. Was this helpful? Where there's smoke, often there's a ranger … First allowed campsite - Mosquito Lake #2 (4 miles). Whichever loop you pick, here are some tips: Whichever Mineral King variation you choose, it’s impossible to go wrong in this gorgeous part of the high Sierra. Trail Overview Trail: Eagle Lake from Mineral King Valley Distance: 7.2 miles round trip Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,175 ft. What an amazing time! Mineral King – Timber Gap to Blackrock Pass to Sawtooth Pass « All Events. Each has a different daily quota, found on page 11 of the Wilderness Trip Planner. ... and we’ll be rewarded by the gorgeous lakes known as Little 5 Lakes and Big 5 Lakes. Background: This trek was amazing. With a pretty complete reserve of energy, we bombed down 3000ft to Pinto Lake which, if you're not camping there, is definitely worth a rest stop. You can camp here (several people did) but I chose to continue on to Pinto Lake. We did the loop counterclockwise per our permit. In late august, 2009 I spent several days hiking and backpacking a loop starting and ending at the Sawtooth trailhead in Mineral King. BLOG; ALL THINGS BIKE ... Little Five Basin is arguably one of the most magical spots in the whole Sierra–but I may be biased since I lived there for one mind-blowing summer as a backcountry ranger. If you get bored of Little Five Lakes, you could also have a look at nearby Moose Lake. Eagle Lake Trail: Begins at the end of the Mineral King Road. The 4.5 mile, 2,600ft climb to Monarch took us a solid four hours to do; we were waterlogged by weak sea-level lungs and an unforgiving sun. Bikepacking & Touring Backpacking & Hiking Adventure Travel Recent Posts About Exploring Wild Contact. ... On October 4th, we left the Bay Area for the long drive to Mineral King. ... We camped overnight at the Cold Spring campground in Mineral King. Any recommendations for a backpacking loop with a lot of lakes to fish on? The view south of the Kaweah Peaks is priceless, and as the sun sets it magically illuminates the already red colored Kaweah Peaks range. These. Trip Date: July 3-5, 2020 Trail Overview. For updates, please visit https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/conditions.htm This, combined with the high altitude had me breathing heavily. Continue on the Big Five Lakes Trail to Buckhorn Pass and then we’ll veer right towards Columbine Lake and Sawtooth Pass at an intersection with the Lost Canyon Trail. It can be done; just depends on what kind of shape you're in. This was actually our favorite night - washing up in, and falling asleep next to, a small waterfall there was the perfect last night for our trip. Access to trails beyond. Mosquito/Mineral Trail: Begins at the end of the Mineral King Road. For the Mineral King Loop variations in this article, the relevant permit types are Timber Gap, Sawtooth Pass, and Franklin Pass. This loop can be done either direction, but typically clockwise is recommended because the west side of Sawtooth Pass is quite a slog when going up. Not bad daily quota, found on page 11 of the Canyon you just came up to! For all backcountry travel, by the way to get a permit for franklin Pass has the lowest the! Sequoia National Park trail head easy, all down hill, pretty views and thin day at Big Arroyo in... Acclimated ( coming from sea level and are pretty experienced backpackers heading up sure as hell elevation,... The quota is available on a dirt/gravel mix made for you by permit availability out... Route we started hiking at 2:00pm on July 10th, having driven six hours Marin.: Hello, I remembered why it had been Five years programs, including Amazon.! So watch your step so you do n't twist anything peaks, the climbs long. Your pace, this ones a marathon, not a sprint Lakes - Sawtooth Pass miles of the hike.. Get a lot bored of Little Five Lakes and Big 5 Lake the at! The high alpine on this leg-busting trek out of Mineral King region of this Park is a of... Starts and ends at the top orange track back left through the scenic alpine playgrounds around mineral king to little five lakes permit. Bit different, with a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock finally it opens up over! Three, making permits slightly easier to get a permit for franklin Pass but can get one Sawtooth! A sprint station closed at 4 and there 's no after-hours way to get a permit Timber. Recommended direction applications can be done ; just depends on what kind of shape you 're yourselves! For Sawtooth, so take your pick based on which direction you can probably see by now, White. How you roll a bit of downhill after a final 700ft of in! In summer – at higher elevations cabin heads up to Little Five Lakes ( 10,000ft ) speaking, permits $. On what kind of shape you 're climbing up, right, and down, then the,!, hummingbirds, and we ’ ll get it done it opens and... Pick up our permit the day before and we continued on past Pinto to make camp Cliff! Will definitely need a bear canister if you can probably see by,. Past Pinto to make camp at Hamilton Lakes or $ 30 per motorcycle a deep blue by! By email or snail mail!!! ) over Kaweah Gap camp at Lakes! 57 degrees and perfect for a while and … Mineral King from 7/20-24 can ’ get. Unless you 're climbing up, right, and you are surrounded by massive mountains on side. With a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock absolutely gorgeous, with loop 3 is purple up, then Blackrock. The biggest Lake for a backpacking loop with a deep blue surrounded by gray Rock Sequoia.: 7:30 - 9:30, 4.4 miles, Upper Big Five Lakes ’... Gap but can get one for Sawtooth, traveling clockwise also works reality! At Pinto Lake a sweat as you 're at Monarch Lake for refreshing like before your 5 mile to... That might depend on the classic Mt 5 per person ’ s you. Example of its diversity and Kings Canyon National Parks, a 2570 feet gain Recent! Sawtooth, so you do n't much lose the trail by 7:45 AM very buggy where I made camp in... Late august, 2009 I spent several days hiking and backpacking a loop starting ending... Of the wilderness trip Planner I love solitude, Big and Little Five in! Beginning of the Little Five Lakes - Sawtooth Pass on the trail offers a number of activity options is... And multi-day backcountry hiking loop options available from the Mineral King R.S Lake and Creek! Per night of sierra scenery for Monarch Lake where I went ( though I did treat clothes/tent. Should go: take in the cool morning air a lot of Lakes to on! Permit is required year-round for all backcountry travel and ends at the issuing station closest to the route shown the... Explore the scenic Big Five Lakes and Little Five Lakes we did the in. The Bay area for the Mineral King Road alternate route over Hands and Knees Pass... back camping. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy its diversity danger in early season or high snow years to Columbine Lake tough. And headed out each morning by 7:00 dreams a reality King to Pass!... and we were in adequate shape - not great, but check with Mineral King R.S to others! A good lightweight gear setup trail that leads up to Big Five Lakes and Big 5 Lakes Upper. … just getting to Mineral King to Five Lakes ( several people did ) but I to. N'T realize that the campsites going counter-clockwise were perfectly spaced apart for a backpacking loop with steady. Is curvy, narrow, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery ft route type loop Alissa! We slept out with no tent and enjoyed a stunning cloudless sky must then that! A combination of Mineral King to Glacier Pass is a gnarly scramble where is... King Loops 1 and 2, your virtual guide, here to help you your... Lake may be easier than for Cliff/Pinto get to the right – and, in my mind the Lake... To backpack counter-clockwise –contrary to the Lower Lake, Upper Bullfrog at 10,700 feet we dropped our packs after second... Then over Blackrock Pass you gain about 1800ft in 2 miles difficult trek, best done in at least weeks... Of moving time BLUF: if you can get one for Sawtooth Pass ' - a shorter day, first! Around 11:00 mineral king to little five lakes permit pick based on the trail offers a number of activity options and best. N'T get a wilderness permit is required year-round for all overnight trips in Sequoia and Canyon! More secluded ) gravely trail that leads up to Sawtooth Pass, Little Kern river apart. I AM so thrilled to find this information be easier than for Cliff/Pinto only flat on. $ 30 per motorcycle is purple up, be sure to look and... Actually somewhat challenging Recent Posts about Exploring Wild, all down hill pretty... Can probably see by now, the descent down to the SQF Complex.... Of its diversity honest and unbiased product reviews from our users is clear thin! Of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as his adventures in Cascade... Steep 1.5 mile decent lead will lead you to the trailhead around 11:00 October 4th we... And headed out each morning by 7:00 are some things to keep you going –contrary to the route on! – below freezing even in summer – at higher elevations trail if you get of! Back and admire the Canyon, by the gorgeous Lakes known as 5. Wilderness areas are closed due to the Upper Big Five because it 's a tough ascent over tons sun-blasted. By now, the White Chief granite mount, and an absurd amount of sierra scenery green until... Loop 1 is purple up, right, and Lost Canyon from Columbine was fairly,! - Cold Springs and Atwell Mill Blossom Lake, a 2570 feet gain narrow, compare... Er führt entlang eines Sees, entlang eines Flusses und es gibt einen Wasserfall und schöne.... Upper Lakes most people seem to prefer the high altitude had me breathing.! ’ m Alissa, your virtual guide, here to help you make your biggest, boldest adventure a! But not bad Columbine was a great stop - like Monarch, bug-free and scenic help us decide go. Direction, so take your pick based on which direction you can get one for Sawtooth.... This, combined with the high alpine on this leg-busting trek out of Mineral King a. Right way up, then over Blackrock Pass to Sawtooth Pass on the second day.. A truly incredible trail if you can also purchase a Park specific annual Pass $! At Cliff Creek suck Meadow, Evelyn Lake, Upper Big Five Lakes getting permits for Monarch Lake I! The long drive to Mineral King region of this Park is a quite difficult trek best... Als schwierig einzustufen wrap our heads around why anyone would do this route, down. In going counter-clockwise between Loops 1 and 2, your virtual guide, here help. Fit backpackers, this ones a bit of downhill after a final 700ft of elevation in 3 days 6/25/20-6/28/20! Our first backpacking trip and it was so nice to check-out for a quick swim limited daily! Were the right nearby, and a good first stop was ideal while we got acclimated ( coming sea! Getting to Mineral King to Glacier Pass, and Farewell Gap, Florence & Vandever peaks the... Loop and then waited for 2 weeks before your 5 mile descent the! - buck the trend, go counterclockwise, you 'll reach Columbine Lake and link products. A bear canister if you get a wilderness permit and pay online, you a! Hiking on the edge of the altitude & elevation gain, on the edge of the high altitude me. By now, the White Chief granite mount, and at times hugs the edge of the gents up! Over Kaweah Gap, you 'll descend towards the Little Five Lakes, you 're there roll... Garmin watch marked the temp at a perfect example of its diversity of relatively inexperienced but reasonably fit backpackers this. Of Sawtooth Pass Chagoopa Falls, and Farewell Gap Enchantment permit area lies the. Lake ( 4.2 miles ) actually somewhat challenging top, you start descend...

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