Deadman Canyon Loop

The first leg climbs steadily through forest toward Twin Lakes, gaining about 2,800 feet. A hiker who made the climb described a well-graded, shaded tread, with the views opening mainly at the lakes. From there the route crosses Silliman Pass and works through the high basins toward Belle Canyon and the Sugarloaf valley. Ranger Lake and Ball Dome are landmarks along this quieter stretch; most of the day is about covering miles between lakes, meadows and creeks rather than stopping at a succession of big overlooks.

Water is seasonal. Some small streams have been dry or low in reported trips, so don’t count on every blue line on a map being a dependable source. Check current conditions and plan your water capacity around the season.

The turn south from Roaring River begins with a roughly 1,000-foot climb through dense, buggy forest with little to see. Grave Meadow is the payoff for that stretch: the trees break, the views open, and granite walls start to close around the canyon. A grave stands in the meadow, though the old story attached to it is not well established. Higher up, the canyon narrows toward a granite headwall, with a green creek corridor below the bare rock. This is the route’s most memorable stretch; give it time instead of treating it as just another climb.

From the head of Deadman Canyon, the trail climbs toward Elizabeth Pass. The crossing opens views in both directions, but the descent is the harder part: one detailed trip report describes about 3,200 feet down in roughly 2.5 miles, over rough, steep ground that can feel more like following rock channels than a smooth trail. Small stone stacks mark the line in places. Slow down and keep your eyes on those markers; this is not the stretch to hurry through.

After the pass, the route joins the High Sierra Trail for the exit to Crescent Meadow. The last miles are a welcome change from the steep descent: a six-day itinerary describes a broad, well-maintained tread that is not especially steep. NPS describes the High Sierra Trail as a long, easier traverse toward Bearpaw Meadow before the climbing beyond. The near-loop’s finish is Crescent Meadow, several miles from the Lodgepole start.

NPS lists the first allowed overnight camping area three miles from the Twin Lakes entry and three miles from the Crescent Meadow High Sierra Trailhead. Build your itinerary around the park’s current campsite and permit rules. The route is remote, water sources can change with the season, and the start and finish are separate access points; sort out both the overnight plan and your return logistics before setting out.

Overnight hikers need a wilderness permit for the Twin Lakes entry. Park rules prohibit pets on trails. Check the permit and camping rules before you set dates.