Taboose Pass Trail

Taboose Pass Trail is a 9.48-mile one-way route from the end of Taboose Creek Road over Taboose Pass to the John Muir Trail in Kings Canyon. It climbs more than 6,000 feet from Owens Valley, so plan on a long, strenuous day or a backpacking trip. Allow about 12 hours one way with a pack. If you follow it back to the road, that is roughly 19 miles in all; it is an access route into the high country, not a short summit walk.

The trail starts among the black lava rock and sage of Owens Valley, then follows Taboose Creek between Cardinal and Goodale mountains. The first couple of miles are more gradual, with creek access. Farther up, the tread climbs higher along the canyon wall. There are two creek crossings around miles 3.5 and 4.7, and a view of a modest waterfall around mile 5.5. Primitive camps are reported along the way, but the sites around miles 3.7 and 6.1 can be exposed to wind and away from water.

Snowmelt pools appear near the top, then the grade steepens across open, exposed ground. The approach has loose scree near the pass, and the trail is not maintained like a front-country walk. From Taboose Pass, look west into Kings Canyon; Bench Lake lies in the distance, with the JMT lower in the valley. The pass is about 7.2 miles from the road. The final two-plus miles descend the park side to the JMT connection. For the pass view, a wide frame that holds the steep valley and distant lake gives a better sense of the drop than a tight crop.

Start at the end of Taboose Creek Road, about 12 miles south of Big Pine and six miles west of US 395. The last stretch is rough dirt. Descriptions of vehicle clearance differ, so check current road access and do not assume a low-clearance car will make it. There are no bear lockers at the trailhead; secure food and scented items in your vehicle.

Day hikes do not require a wilderness permit, but overnight trips need one year-round. From May 1 through November 1, the quota is 10 people per day. Natural water needs treatment, groups are limited to 15, and campfires are prohibited along Taboose Creek and above 10,400 feet. Pets are not allowed on trails inside Kings Canyon; service dogs are permitted under park rules. The route crosses Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep habitat, so leave wildlife undisturbed.