North Lake to Goddard Canyon

This stunning out-and-back route from North Lake to Goddard Canyon offers a high-alpine journey through the Sierra Nevada’s most dramatic terrain, combining well-maintained trails with the feeling of true wilderness. The route crosses Piute Pass, traverses the Humphreys Basin, and drops into the remote and scenic Goddard Canyon, a gateway to some of the Sierra's most iconic off-trail destinations and peaks.

Start from the North Lake Trailhead near Bishop, gaining steady elevation as you hike through pine forest and granite slabs toward Piute Pass. Once over the pass, enter the wide-open expanse of Humphreys Basin, dotted with sparkling tarns, alpine meadows, and off-trail access to Mt. Humphreys and the Glacier Divide.

Continue west on the Piute Trail, descending into Piute Canyon. At the junction take the John Muir Trail (JMT)/Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) south. Eventually the JMT/PCT veers east but you will continue south on the Goddard Canyon Trail.

Reaching the end of the trail in upper Goddard Canyon puts you at the doorstep of a vast and rugged alpine playground. For those interested who are experienced in backcountry navigation and interested in exploring further some options include:

• Mount Goddard: A classic Sierra peak.

• Ionian Basin: A remote, trailless granite basin.

• Davis Lakes Basin

• Martha Lake

• Enchanted Gorge: For experienced cross-country travelers, this legendary off-trail route links Goddard Canyon to Evolution Valley via a rugged and remote descent

These side options are generally unmarked and require advanced navigation skills, a topographic map, and comfort traveling off-trail.

Flora & Fauna

The route covers a diverse ecological range, from Jeffrey pine and fir forests to alpine meadows and barren granite passes. Wildflowers bloom through summer, and wildlife includes marmots, pikas, mule deer, and the occasional black bear. Mosquitoes can be intense in early summer, bring bug protection.

Permits, Safety and Considerations

• Wilderness permits are required for overnight trips and can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

• Bear canisters are required for food storage.

• Water is abundant along the route. Always filter or purify.

• North Lake Trailhead is near Bishop, CA. Limited parking is available, arrive early.

• Altitude: Acclimatize properly, especially if coming from low elevation.

• Weather: Storms can roll in quickly, be prepared and always check the forecast.

• Navigation: Some areas may require off-trail skills and a good map or GPS.

Remoteness: Be prepared to have limited cell service.