PCT Alternate: Burro, Mule, Buckeye & Kirkland Pass

This route provides an alternative for PCT hikers looking to get off the beaten path and enjoy a beautiful corner of the Sierra, all while saving 10 miles compared to the PCT. The route takes you over 4 passes (Burro, Mule, Buckeye and Kirkland) before rejoining the PCT near Long Lakes. Note that your PCT long distance permit doesn’t officially cover this alternate, but you can acquire a local permit either in person (at Tuolumne Meadows) or online (recreation.gov).

The alternate begins from the junction at Matterhorn Canyon. Leave the PCT and follow the trail generally northward as it continues up the canyon. At the 6 mile mark you’ll top out on Burro Pass. The views are spectacular.

You’ll then descend for roughly 2.5 miles, before climbing steeply to Mule Pass. Descend, then stay right at the junction. The trail then passes Crown and Robinson Lakes. Stay left at the next junction, then you’ll come to Peeler Lake.

Continue past Peeler Lake and you’ll reach Kerrick Meadows. At the junction, turn right onto the Buckeye Pass Trail. The namesake pass lies just beyond, but isn’t much of a pass at all.

You’ll then descend down Buckeye Canyon Trail, a lesser traveled trail, as it leaves Yosemite National Park. Continue until the junction with the West Walker River Trail, then turn left. A 2.5 mile climb then leads to Kirkland Pass, the last pass of this alternate route.

After the pass you’ll have a big descent that eventually leads to some beautiful meadows. Note that this trail is faint in areas, so pay attention. A short side trip leads to a Forest Service cabin with a fantastic view overlooking the main, Upper Piute Meadow.

Continue along the West Walker River Trail until crossing the river (an easy, but wet feet crossing) and joining the Upper Long Lake Trail. Stay on this trail until rejoining the PCT, which marks the end of this alternate route.