Sawtooth Pass

Overview

Sawtooth Pass is Mineral King’s big, burly high pass—steep, sandy, and absolutely worth the grind. From the top, you get sweeping looks into Mineral King Valley and a string of blue alpine gems, including Monarch Lakes below and Columbine Lake just over the crest.

What You'll See

Expect quintessential High Sierra drama: pale granite, glacial cirques, and lakes tucked beneath sharp ridgelines. From the pass, the skyline sprawls—Monarch Lakes behind you, Columbine Lake and the Great Western Divide ahead. Wildlife is commonly reported along this route, so keep your eyes open and your food secured.

Trail and Difficulty

The well-graded trail to Monarch Lakes eases you in. Beyond the lakes, the route turns rough and essentially unmaintained: steep, loose sand and scree, with cairns and your judgment guiding the final climb. The pass tops out around the high 11,000s in elevation, and strong hikers sometimes add the off-trail scramble to Sawtooth Peak, which has no designated path.

Camping, Water, and Facilities

The first legal camping is at Monarch Lakes, where there’s a bear-proof storage container. Water is available along the route from creeks and lakes—treat or filter it. One report notes a basic restroom at Monarch Lakes, though conditions can be unpleasant.

Logistics and Permits

Overnight trips require a wilderness permit issued at the Mineral King Ranger Station. The drive in on Mineral King Road is long and rough—build in extra time. Parking at the trailhead is free but limited, and reviewers call out the small lot.

Safety and Season

Late June through October is the typical window, but early/late season snow can linger on the pass. Start early, bring plenty of water, and carry trekking poles for the scree. Altitude is real here—consider spending a night in the valley campgrounds beforehand if you’re coming from sea level. Mosquitoes can be intense in season, and offline maps help with route-finding near the pass.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for a summer or early fall window when the pass is snow-free. Weekdays and a dawn start help with parking and heat. Morning light paints Mineral King behind you on the ascent; later in the day, the lakes over the pass can glow beautifully, but give yourself ample time to descend the loose slope before dark.