Explore the Sixty Lakes Basin on this adventurous 29-mile out-and-back trek through Kings Canyon National Park. The approach to the Sixty Lakes Basin is from the east side of the Sierra Nevada via Kearsarge Pass and Glen Pass. The trailhead is located at Onion Valley, west of the small town of Independence off of Highway 395 just 3.5 hours from Los Angeles. The Sixty Lakes Basin is a short side trip from Rae Lakes and provides opportunities for exploration and solitude among pristine lakes and creeks surrounded by granite ridges.
Starting in Onion Valley, the hike to Kearsarge Pass involves climbing about 2500 feet over 4.5 miles. A 2.5-mile descent from Kearsarge Pass leads to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) / John Muir Trail (JMT). It follows the PCT/JMT up a steep climb to Glen Pass and then descends to Rae Lakes.
The Sixty Lakes Basin Trail departs from the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) / John Muir Trail (JMT) on the northwest shore of Upper Rae Lake. The trail climbs over a ridge and then descends into the Sixty Lakes Basin. Sixty Lakes Basin Trail traverses the eastern shore of the lakes and eventually fades and disappears, leaving visitors to travel cross country from lake to lake if they wish to explore beyond the trail.
TRAILHEAD
The trailhead for Kearsarge Pass Trail is located at Onion Valley, west of Independence off of Highway 395. The trailhead features a large parking area, toilets, bear vaults, and water. The paved parking area is available for day use and overnight parking.
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This is an active bear area and visitors are advised not to leave food or scented items in their cars.
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The road to the trailhead is usually open May-November.
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The Onion Valley Campground is also located at the trailhead and sites can be reserved in advance through www.recreation.gov.
CAMPING AND PERMITS
If you are planning to camp at any of the lakes, or any other backcountry camp spot, you must obtain a permit in advance. Information about backcountry permits can be found at www.recreation.gov.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Kearsarge Pass Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=20784.
Wilderness Permits and Reservations: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/inyo/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_003808.
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