This is a long trail starting at the Giant Forest and ending at the summit of Mount Whitney. The High Sierra Trail leads from Crescent Meadow up the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, crossing the Great Western Divide by the 10,700' (3261 meters) pass known as Kaweah Gap. It descends into Big Arroyo, then climbs up to the Chagoopa Plateau, and drops down again into the Kern River Canyon. After running up the bottom of the Kern Canyon, it turns east, climbing parallel to Wallace Creek up to the junction with the John Muir Trail, 49 miles (79 km) from the starting point. You can then follow the John Muir Trail about 13 more miles (21 km) to the summit of Mount Whitney.

Stock travelers will find some restrictions on their trip, both natural and those imposed by the park to preserve the natural beauty we come to enjoy. Backpackers should encounter no difficulties, if reasonable distances are taken each day.

Directions: From Ash Mountain Entrance, Drive north along Generals Highway 17 miles to the Crescent Meadow Road. Turn right and travel to the roads end and the High Sierra Trailhead.

Elevation: 6,700 feet

Ending Elevation: 14,494 feet

Distance: 70 miles

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Strenuous

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