Olancha Pass to Jordan Hot Springs

This rugged and remote 40.4-mile out-and-back route takes you from the Olancha Pass Trailhead, through the Southern Sierra Wilderness, deep into the heart of the Golden Trout Wilderness, and to the warm pools of Jordan Hot Springs. The journey offers high-elevation vistas, quiet solitude, and the reward of soaking in a remote natural hot spring. This is an excellent multi-day backpacking trip for experienced hikers looking to explore one of the less-traveled corners of the southern Sierra.

Route Overview

• Distance: 40.4 miles round-trip

• Elevation Gain: 8400+ feet

• Trail Type: Out-and-back

• Trailhead: Olancha Pass Trailhead (near Sage Flat, off Hwy 395 south of Lone Pine)

• High Point: Olancha Pass (~9,200 ft)

• Low Point: Jordan Hot Springs (~6,800 ft)

• Difficulty: Strenuous due to elevation gain, length, and remote terrain
  Best Season: Late spring through early fall (watch for lingering snow in early season and heat in lower elevations)

Route Description
Start your hike at the Olancha Pass Trailhead, located at Sage Flat. From here, the trail climbs steeply through pinyon-juniper forest up to Olancha Pass. Follow the Olancha Pass Trail to Monache Creek Road and head west to Soda Creek. Take the Bigdry Mdw-Litldry Mdw Cutoff to Little Dry Meadow. Then take Snake Creek to the Black Rock to Kern River Trail which will bring you to Jordan Hot Springs - a rustic and historical site featuring a natural warm spring and remains of old bath structures from the early 1900s. There are several intersecting trails along the route, providing opportunities to customize the journey based on time, interest, or conditions.
Camping & Water

• Backcountry permits are not required for the Southern Sierra Wilderness however, overnight permits are required for Golden Trout Wilderness.

• Water is seasonally available from creeks and springs, but always filter or treat before drinking.

• Bear canisters are recommended; this is active bear country.

Flora & Fauna
You’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, from pinyon pine and sagebrush at lower elevations to lodgepole pine and alpine meadows higher up. Expect to see golden trout, mule deer, marmots, and a wide array of birds. Spring and early summer bring wildflowers in the high meadows.

Permits & Regulations

• Wilderness permits are required for overnight  stays in Golden Trout Wilderness and can be obtained at www.recreation.gov. 

• Campfires may be restricted depending on the season and elevation; check with Inyo National Forest for current fire regulations.

• Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this sensitive wilderness area.

Trailhead Info

• The Olancha Pass Trailhead is accessed via Sage Flat Road, off Highway 395 just south of Olancha. The road may be rough in spots but is typically passable by most vehicles.

There is limited parking and no water at the trailhead.