Silliman Pass

Overview

Silliman Pass sits on the Kings–Kaweah Divide at roughly 10,160 feet, straddling the border between the two parks. It’s a true backcountry pass: no roads, just a well-traveled trail threading through forest, meadows, and lakes to a wide-open crest. The pass and nearby Mount Silliman were named for Benjamin Silliman, a Yale chemistry professor.

From the pass, expect classic High Sierra granite and far-ranging views—this spot is all about the landscape payoff after a steady climb.

Getting There

Most hikers reach the pass from Lodgepole via the Twin Lakes Trail. Parking is by the Lodgepole bus stop and campground area, and the signed trailhead sits just east of the bridge over the Marble Fork Kaweah River. The path climbs consistently, passing reliable water sources and alpine lakes en route to the divide.

If you have extra energy, the pass also positions you well for a short, class 2, off-trail ramble up Mount Silliman’s mellow granite slabs for even bigger views.

What to Expect on the Trail

• Terrain: Forested switchbacks give way to meadows and lakes, then more open granite near the crest. It’s a sustained effort—plan for a full day if doing it as a day hike.
• Water: Seasonal creeks and lakes are common along the approach; treat or filter everything. Silliman Creek supplies Lodgepole’s water—minimize contact and keep human waste far from it.
• Camping: Backpackers commonly stage at Twin Lakes before crossing the pass; there’s a pit toilet and bear lockers at the strip between the lakes. Fires aren’t permitted at the lakes. On this entry, the first legal campsite is at Cahoon Meadow (~3 miles from the trailhead).

Permits and Rules

• Day hiking requires no permit, but overnight trips do. Backpacking permits for this entry are handled out of Lodgepole.
• No dogs on national park trails.

Season and Conditions

Best window is typically July through September. Earlier in the season, snow can linger on high passes and on Mount Silliman’s slabs. Expect steep sections and occasional sparse signage near junctions or side routes—solid navigation skills are helpful.

Extended Adventures

If you’re hungry for more, this pass can anchor a superb multi-day loop linking Belle Canyon, Sugarloaf Valley, Deadman Canyon, and Elizabeth Pass (about 54 miles, ~11,700 feet of gain). Hikers report plentiful water, quieter miles in the middle, and occasionally faint tread near Elizabeth Pass. There’s a seasonal free shuttle between Crescent Meadow and Lodgepole that can simplify logistics.

Best Times to Visit

• Time of year: July–September for clear trails and snow-free travel.
• Time of day: Start early for cooler temps and an unhurried climb; afternoon light is lovely for the views from the crest.
• Week planning: Weekdays tend to feel quieter on the approach from Lodgepole compared to peak weekend traffic in summer.