Sherman Pass to Manter Meadow Loop

This 53.2-mile loop travels through the remote and rugged Domeland Wilderness, located on the eastern edge of Sequoia National Park. Starting from Sherman Pass, the route offers expansive views, solitude, and a diverse mix of forested ridgelines, granite formations, and open meadows.

This route is recommended as a 4–5 day backpacking trip, depending on pace and how much time you want to spend at camp. It includes long stretches without reliable water, a few steep and brushy sections, and trail junctions that can be tricky to follow.

It's best suited for experienced backpackers who are comfortable with navigation, carrying sufficient water, and traveling in remote terrain. While the elevation isn’t extreme, the remoteness, seasonal creek crossings, and variable trail conditions make this a better fit for those with solid backcountry skills and a reliable topo map or GPS.

Begin at Sherman Pass and head south on the Pacific Crest Trail. Stay on the PCT until it connects with the Rockhouse Trail, then continue south. Follow the Rockhouse Trail to the Manter Creek Trail and turn west. From there, head south on the Woodpecker Trail, which includes a few rough sections and steep stretches. You’ll briefly follow Taylor Road before connecting to the Big Meadow Trail and heading north to the Manter Meadow Trailhead.

From Manter Meadow, take the South Manter Trail east, then follow Cabin Spur Trail north. Continue east on the Deadwood Trail, then head north on the Woodpecker Trail to connect with the Domeland Trail. Finish the loop by heading east on the Domeland Trail until you meet the PCT again. Retrace your steps north on the PCT to return to Sherman Pass.

The Domeland Wilderness lives up to its name with granite domes and a unique blend of Sierra Nevada and desert ecosystems. You’ll hike through forests of Jeffrey pine, lodgepole pine, incense cedar, and black oak, with chaparral and manzanita covering more exposed slopes. In spring and early summer, wildflowers like lupine and Indian paintbrush dot the meadows and hillsides.

Wildlife is abundant but elusive. You might see mule deer, rattlesnakes, jackrabbits, and possibly signs of black bear. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and Steller’s jays overhead. Western fence lizards and other reptiles are common in the rocky terrain.

WHEN TO VISIT
The area is accessible year-round, but spring and fall are ideal due to mild temperatures. Expect hot summers and snow in winter.

CONSIDERATIONS

• Sherman Pass Road closed in winter. 

• Crossing Trout Creek can be difficult to impossible depending on the amount of snow melt.

• The Woodpecker Trail has some poorly maintained sections that are difficult to follow and several steep ups and downs.

CAMPING AND PERMITS

Wilderness permits are not required. 

Campfire permits are required. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• For current trail conditions, contact the Kern River Ranger District: 1-760-376-3781. 

• Domeland Wilderness - https://www.blm.gov/visit/domeland-wilderness.