The Lakes Trail in Sequoia National Park offers amazing views of three amazing alpine lakes: Heather, Emerald and Pear Lakes. The trail is popular for day-hiking- but I would always recommend an overnight trip, whenever possible. This trail is open year-round and summer would be ideal to fully enjoy the experience of a backcountry alpine lake!
Trail: The Lakes Trail Distance: 11.6 miles round-trip Elevation gain: 3,234 ft. Location: Sequoia National Park, CA Permits: A wilderness permit is required for backpacking in Sequoia National Park. Permits can be obtained at recreation.gov
Trail Overview
It’s mid-July and I just lost my job. No, this isn’t an open diary entry, but one of the many reasons why I think I’ll be okay without that job. I love traveling. I love exploring new places and I love storytelling and sharing those places with you.
It wasn’t my first time backpacking the Lakes Trail in Sequoia National Park, but it would be my first time solo experiencing this trail and if you’re a solo hiker looking to expand your horizions- then Sequoia National Park is the park for you!
Can you really hike to three alpine lakes on this trail?
Amply named, The Lakes Trail is located in the Lodgepole and Giant Forest area. The trail begins at Wolverton and climbs ~3,234′ to Pear Lake which is 6.8 miles from the trailhead. The first camping option, however, is ~5.7 miles from the trailhead at Emerald Lake. Both locations have bear boxes and plenty of camping options. 🏕️
Heather Lake: 3.8 miles from the trailhead.
Emerald Lake: 5.7 miles from the trailhead, first camping option.
Pear Lake: 6.8 miles from the trailhead, final destination.
What’s the weather like in Sequoia National Park?
Trip date for this report is mid-July 2022. Summer is a great time to visit, although depending on the snow levels from winter, you may run into some snow patches. It’s always important to check current conditions before traveling and know that it can change quickly and vary from different areas of the park.
What should I pack for an overnight trip?
Below is a general list of the items I currently carry on an overnight backpacking trip. You can use this as a gudeline for the items you can take with you for a comfortable backpacking experience. It’s taken me many years and learning from my mistakes to get my set up the way I like it. Your set up will be different and possibly change over time.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning I receive a small percentage of commission with every purchase at no additional cost to you.
How can I obtain a wilderness permit?
Wilderness permits are required for overnight backpacking trips. These permits can be obtained online in advance or walk-up permits the day before you start your trip.
Follow these simple steps to obtain your wilderness permit online:
1. Login to your account on Recreation.gov
2. Search for: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Wilderness Permits or click here for easy access.
3. Explore Available Permits.
4. Search for Lakes Trail.
5. Find desired date and continue to check out.
