Farewell Gap Trail

Farewell Gap Trail is a strenuous out-and-back from the Farewell Gap–Franklin Lakes Trailhead to the saddle above Farewell Canyon. Use 12.4 miles round trip as the planning figure; published estimates range from roughly 11 to nearly 13 miles. Allow 7–8 hours for this long climb. The route climbs from a forested river valley to an open pass near 10,640 feet.

Follow the broad approach from the trailhead. At the signed split, turn right toward Farewell Gap; Franklin Lakes goes left. The route ends at the V-shaped saddle above the valley, then returns on the same trail. If you want a shorter day, the shared approach has a permitted campsite at the Franklin/Farewell junction, about four miles in.

The path follows the East Fork Kaweah through meadows and patches of red fir, juniper and willow before narrowing to single track. Braided Crystal Creek crosses the trail around the first mile. Franklin Creek comes next, with a waterfall and pool just above the crossing; after that, steep switchbacks climb an open ridge. Higher up, the trail traverses above Farewell Canyon, where the slopes show orange and brown mineral stains and the views open back down toward Mineral King. Creek crossings may require wading during high water early in the season.

The valley’s colorful metamorphic rocks drew prospectors hoping for silver in the 1870s. Old mine shafts remain along the Farewell Gap branch. Look from a safe distance and stay out of the workings.

Use the Eagle/Mosquito parking area at the end of Mineral King Road, then walk back across the East Fork Kaweah bridge and follow the dirt road past Mineral King Pack Station to the trailhead board. For backcountry camping, get a wilderness permit from the Mineral King Ranger Station. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails.