9/16/2017
Amazing hike with a series of alpine lakes, waterfalls and towering
mountain peaks of High Sierra. Kearsarge Pass (11,760') is one of the
most direct and shortest routes connecting eastern and western High
Sierras. Kings Canyon National Park is situated just on the other side
(west) of the pass. This 5 mile long hike gaining 2,660' elevation
provides spectacular mountain vistas all along the journey. Kearsarge
Pass Trail traverses John Muir Wilderness and connects with John Muir
Trail and PCT.
From the beginning of the hike at Onion Valley trailhead, breathtaking
views amaze you. Trail is well maintained and climbs in switchbacks.
Along the trail there are a series of waterfalls and alpine
lakes....Little Pothole Lake, Gilbert Lake, Flower Lake, Heart Lake and
Big Pothole Lake. University Peak (13,589'), which is named for the
University of California, looms over the lakes as you go, and Mt. Gould
(13,012') comes in sight as you approach the pass.
Take in breathtaking views from the pass....to the west are peaks and
lakes of the King-Kern Divide in Kings Canyon NP, whereas Kearsarge
Pinnacles and Kearsarge Lakes dominate the foreground. To the south,
University Peak towers along the jagged ridge running from the pass with
Big Pothole Lake sitting just below the pass. Zoom in grand vistas down
towards the east, and Onion Valley and Independence/HWY395 are visible.
Kearsarge Pass Trail offers such a breathtaking scenery of the Sierra
Crest landscape with high mountains and alpine lakes in relatively easy
and short hike. Two thumbs up!
Video by Lifeisamt
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