Elizabeth Pass Trail

Overview

This is a demanding, high-country connector that crests Elizabeth Pass at 11,339 feet, linking Deadman Canyon/Roaring River on the Kings Canyon side to the Tamarack Lake junction near the High Sierra Trail on the Sequoia side. Figure on 14.7 miles one way for the full traverse between Roaring River and the Tamarack Lake junction, with about 10 hours total travel for a strong hiker. It’s rugged, quiet, and rewards the sweat with sweeping views across the Great Western Divide and deep into glacially carved Kings Canyon country.

Route and Scenery

From the north, you climb out of the long, glacial U of Deadman Canyon—its signature green ribbon of creek-fed meadows—up steep granite switchbacks to the pass. From the south, you wind past the Lonely Lake outlet and granite benches above the Tamarack/Bearpaw corridor. The summit panorama reaches in every direction, with classic Sierra granite slabs, benches, and towering divide peaks. Along the way you’ll encounter wildflower bursts late season and, in lower Deadman, a marked grave from 1887—Alfred Momiere—adding a dash of human history to the wilderness.

Trail Character and Difficulty

This is not a groomed highway. Expect faint tread that disappears on granite slabs, intermittent cairns (including some big, old "ducks" on the south side), and slow, rocky going—especially on the north side below the pass. The cumulative elevation is burly either direction, and sections are exposed to sun and heat. Trekking poles shine here, particularly on the loose, slabby north-side descent.

Best Time to Hike

Late summer into early fall tends to be the sweet spot when the pass goes snow-free in many years, though conditions vary. Even then, north-facing slopes can hold lingering snow and ice. Start early to avoid heat on the south approach and to beat potential afternoon build-up over the crest.

Geology, Flora, and Wildlife

You’re traveling classic Sierra Nevada granite—Cretaceous plutonic rock uplifted and sculpted by ice—etched into sweeping slabs and U-shaped valleys. Watch for late-season wildflowers dotting the upper benches, and for wildlife like marmots and deer in meadows. Bears are present; practice diligent food storage.

Tips and Logistics

• Length is 14.7 miles one way between Roaring River Ranger Station and the Tamarack Lake junction. A typical traverse clocks around 8.5 hours moving, ~10 hours total.
• Navigation matters: slow down on slabs and scan for cairns, especially just below the pass on the north side. Carry a map/GPS for poor visibility.
• Heat and exposure are real; start early and carry ample water between obvious creek crossings (Lonely Lake outlet on the south; reliable water along Deadman Canyon).
• Overnight permits are required. Bear canisters are the standard for food storage, and Roaring River Ranger Station may offer bear-proof storage when staffed—but don’t rely on it being occupied.
• This is a remote corridor with notably fewer hikers than marquee Sierra routes. If you want a quieter, big-view pass and don’t mind route-finding, it’s a winner.