Minarets Lakes Loop

The JMT + PCT Minarets Lakes Loop is a 73.9-mile backpacking adventure that starts and ends in Tuolumne Meadows. Combining stretches of the John Muir Trail (JMT) and Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) with side trips through the Minarets and stunning alpine lakes, this route captures some of the best scenery in the Sierra Nevada. With granite peaks, high passes, and crystal-clear lakes at nearly every turn, this loop is a perfect choice for backpackers ready for a weeklong adventure.

From Tuolumne Meadows, follow the JMT south through lush meadows and granite terrain. At the junction near Waugh Lake, head east on the Rush Creek Trail, passing the sparkling waters of Waugh Lake and Gem Lake before descending toward Agnew Lake.

From Agnew Lake, the trail climbs south through Spooky Meadow before crossing Agnew Pass, where views of the Ritter Range open up. Descend to meet the PCT, then head south past Agnew Meadows and the rushing cascades of Minaret Falls.

At the JMT junction, turn north to begin the Minarets Lakes section. Continue past Johnston Lake before branching onto the Minaret Creek Trail (with an option to remain on the JMT for a more straightforward route). The Minarets Basin is rugged and breathtaking, with less defined trails that demand navigation skills. You’ll pass a chain of dramatic alpine lakes, including Minaret Lake, Cecile Lake, Iceberg Lake, and Ediza Lake, before reconnecting with the JMT.

From here, head north on the JMT through some of its most iconic sections: Garnet Lake with its Ritter Range backdrop and Thousand Island Lake with Banner Peak towering above. Retrace the JMT through Lyell Canyon and follow it back to Tuolumne Meadows to complete the loop.

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS

Tuolumne Meadows is located off of Tioga Pass Road and makes a fantastic base camp for adventurers and visitors of Yosemite National Park. It features a small cafe, general store, parking area, and campground. In addition, several trails lead in and out of this area including the Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail. 

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Therefore, permits are required year-round for overnight camping and it is best to look into reserving your permit well in advance. For more information please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm. 

WILDLIFE

The loop passes through subalpine meadows, lodgepole pine forests, and glacial basins. In summer, wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and columbine brighten the meadows. Wildlife sightings may include marmots, pika, mule deer, black bears, Clark’s nutcrackers, and golden eagles. The Minarets Basin is especially rich in alpine flora and offers a chance to see less-disturbed ecosystems.

• Black bears: Along the route you are required to store food and other scented items in bear-proof containers to protect yourself and the bears. In Yosemite, hanging food is not permitted. For more information about proper food storage and/or bear can rentals please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/bearcanrentals.htm. 

PERMITS AND PASSES

Permits are required for overnight stays in Yosemite National Park. There is also a fee to enter the park. For information about qualifying passes, ways to pay, and more please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/fees.htm. 

WEATHER

Always check the current conditions before heading out on any hike, especially when you are traveling in the High Sierra. For information about Yosemite weather please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/weathermap.htm.

SEASONAL CLOSURES

Tioga Pass Road usually remains open June-November. Information about Tioga Pass Road can be found here https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Backcountry and Trail Information