High Sierra Trail Information
The Hike To Bearpaw (R)
Distance: 11.5 miles each way
Time: 5 to 10 hours, one way (average 7 hours)
Trailhead: Crescent Meadow, approximately 10 miles south of Wuksachi Lodge®
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Description: Well marked and easy to navigate, the High Sierra trail is considered moderate with a warm southern exposure. The trail follows a ridgeline of mixed conifers, offering spectacular views of the Great Western Divide and lush meadows along the journey. The journey gains and loses elevation the entire way. The High Sierra trail crosses three major tributaries before reaching Bearpaw High Sierra Camp®.
Recommendations
Start hiking early! A 7:00 am start is advised to avoid some of the mid-day heat and will allow enough time to shower and relax before dinner.
Drink and carry plenty of water. There are several creek crossings along the way; carry a water filter or iodine tablets. Potable drinking water (safe to drink) is not available on the trail.
Eat little but often. Big meals sit heavy and demand oxygen for digestion. Eat foods that are high in carbohydrates, and avoid fats and proteins that are hard to digest.
Merhten Creek is approximately 6 miles into the hike and is a good place to stop for lunch.
It takes the average person about 7 hours to hike in or out of Bearpaw.
It is wise to rest and enjoy Buck Creek (it has a concrete bridge) because the last 1.3 miles gains 600 vertical feet and is without water.
As the trail tops the ridge, a sign identifies the campground. DO NOT take the trail to the campground! Stay left on the trail (toward Hamilton Lake). The tent camp lies 300 yards ahead. Walk around front of the dining hall for lemonade where camp hosts will greet you.
Most people choose to hike, but for a fee, mules are available via the Cedar Grove Pack Station. Contact 559-565-3464 for information.
Personal items cannot be shipped on the Bearpaw weekly pack trains. Arrangements must be made privately.
The night before your hike to Bearpaw, we suggest you stay at the Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia National Park to allow time to acclimate yourself to the higher altitude. Stay a night after your hike as well so you can rest for your drive home.
What to Bring
Warm hat
Sweater and/or fleece jacket
Extra socks! (Laundry facilities are not available)
Sweat pants, tee shirts, etc.
Rain poncho
Ball cap or sun visor
Camp shoes or sandals (also good for crossing creeks)
Map
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Water filter or iodine tablets
Insect repellant
Flashlight
Water bottle and/or canteen
Walking stick
Toiletries
First aid kit / blister kit
Note: If you have existing medical conditions that require medication, bring extra in case of unexpected delays.
What to Expect
Mid- to Late June:
Possible snow on trail and higher water levels
Cool temperatures (low 40's to mid 70's)
Fewer insects
Possible thunderstorm activity
Song birds
Little trail usage (backpackers)
Early July:
Some flowers
Warmer temperatures (high 40's to mid 80's)
Increase in insect activity
Song birds
Mid- to Late July:
Flowers
Warmer temperatures (high 40's to mid 80's)
Possible thunderstorms
Insects
Increase in trail usage (backpackers)
Early to Mid-August:
Some flowers
Warmer temperatures (high 40's to mid 80's)
Possible thunderstorms
Insects
High trail usage (backpackers)
Late August Through Mid-September:
Decrease in flowers
Berry season
Cooler temperatures (low 40's to high 70's)
Decrease in insect activity
Low trail usage (backpackers)
For trail conditions, maps, and information, call the Wilderness Office at 559-565-3766.
For weather information call 559-565-3341.
