From
Lone Pine there are many trail heads from which one can access the high-country
wilderness.
There is plenty to offer those seeking a day hike to view the abundant Summer
wildflowers, listen to the birds and the streams, and be in the peaceful solitude
of the wilderness. For those wanting to spend more time in the backcountry,
Lone Pine is a gateway to the entire southern Sierra Nevada.
Mt. Whitney Trail
Every year thousands travel to Whitney Portal with their hearts set on attaining
the summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States.
By far the most popular route on Mt. Whitney is the hiking trail built in
1904. To maintain the wilderness character of the hike and to prevent overcrowding
there are daily quotas for the trail during the peak season. Permits
are required year-round for all overnight hikes and for day hikes past Lone
Pine Lake.
More information.
Meysan Lakes Trail
The steep 4.7 mile Meysan Lake Trail leads to the beautiful alpine lake basin.
The trail also provides access to the climbing routes on Lone Pine Peak, Mt.
Mallory, Candlelight Peak and other peaks.
Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail
During the cooler fall, spring and winter months, the four-mile Whitney Portal
Trail makes a great hike. The upper portion of the trail is in trees and canyon
shade and travels alongside the creek. The lower portion is more open and
can be very hot in the summer time.
Horseshoe Meadows Area
The Horseshoe Meadows area is another popular entry point into the Sierra
highcountry as well as being a great camping site and a lovely place for a
picnic. There is a wildflower filled meadow surrounded by trees and a brook
running through it even in the late summer.
The Cottonwood Pass Trail provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail and
the northern portion of the Golden Trout Wilderness and the Kern Plateau.
This area is characterized by rolling terrain with lovely subalpine meadows.
The Cottonwood Lakes / New Army Pass Trail provides access to the southern
portion of the John Muir Wilderness and Sequoia National Park. The Cottonwood
Lakes are home to the Golden Trout, (Salmo aguabonita), California's
state fish.
Onion Valley Trails
Once an Indian trading route, the Kearsarge Pass Trail provides access to
a beautiful High Sierra Lake basin in the John Muir Wilderness and the spectacular
backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park. Rough trails lead to the Golden
Trout Lakes.
There are many dirt roads in the Owens Valley which lead to a variety of
seldom visited trailheads for the adventurous visitor to explore. Many trails
are used by several user groups so please extend courtesy and respect to other
users. Permits
are required for all overnight hikes into the backcountry.
Be aware that you are in Bear country when you are hiking in the High Sierra.
Please know how to store your food correctly -- it
protects the wildlife and guarantees that you will not go hungry on your trip.
As you venture out into the wilderness we ask that you acknowledge the fragility
of the environment you are visiting and consider your impact -- remember the
wilderness is dependent on us for its' preservation.
We humans are attracted to the wilderness because it offers immense opportunities
for spiritual and physical reward. The environment can also be unpredictable
and can test our endurance and ability to survive, be prepared for all weather
conditions.
