Sawmill Pass to Lake Marjorie

Sawmill Pass to Lake Marjorie is a 35.6 mile out-and-back backpacking route. The route begins at the Sawmill Pass Trailhead near Independence, CA, and climbs steeply over Sawmill Pass (11,347') before dropping into the backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park. This route features stunning alpine terrain, big mountain views, peak bagging opportunities, and a remote, peaceful stretch of the John Muir Trail (JMT) / Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Lake Marjorie, your turnaround point, is a jewel-toned alpine lake tucked beneath the dramatic cliffs of Pinchot Pass. Expect solitude, serious elevation gain, and unforgettable Sierra scenery.

Start from the Sawmill Pass Trailhead at about 4,600 feet in the Owens Valley. The climb begins immediately and doesn't let up for miles. This section is dry, exposed, and steep, an early morning start is highly recommended to beat the heat. The trail eventually reaches Sawmill Meadow and climbs again to Sawmill Pass.

Once over the pass, you’ll enter Kings Canyon National Park and descend through alpine forest and meadows toward the JMT/PCT. Turn north on the JMT/PCT and enjoy a relatively mellow, scenic stretch past lakes and granite cliffs. The final push brings you over Pinchot Pass followed by  descent to Lake Marjorie, perched just below Pinchot Pass. The lake is a spectacular place to rest, take a dip, and soak in the high Sierra.

After your stay at Marjorie, retrace your steps to return to the start.

You'll pass through desert scrub, montane forest, and alpine meadows. Juniper, lodgepole pine, and wildflowers line the upper trail, with plenty of marmots, pika, deer, and the occasional black bear.

CAMPING AND WATER

There are good camping options at Sawmill Meadow, Woods Lake, and along the JMT/PCT corridor before Lake Marjorie. Lake Marjorie itself offers spectacular but exposed sites—expect wind. Water is generally reliable after the initial dry climb along Sawmill Pass trail, filter all sources.

PERMITS AND REGULATIONS

• Wilderness permits are required for overnight trips and can be reserved through Recreation.gov (Inyo National Forest > Sawmill Pass Trail)

• No campfires are allowed above 10,000 feet.

• Bear canisters are required

• This route enters Kings Canyon National Park, so know and follow park regulations

WHEN TO GO

Best from mid-July through early October when the snow has melted and the creeks are manageable. Earlier in the season, snowfields may linger on the pass and near Lake Marjorie.

SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS

• The first several miles are hot, dry, and steep, carry plenty of water

• Elevation gain is significant.

• Not recommended for first-time backpackers; this is a strenuous, high-altitude route

• Mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer—bring repellent or netting

The trailhead is located just west of Independence, CA, up Sawmill Canyon Road. The road is paved, but parking is limited. A bear locker and trailhead sign mark the start.