High Sierra Trail

Overview

The High Sierra Trail is a committing, west-to-east traverse across the Sierra Nevada from Crescent Meadow to Whitney Portal, about 70.5 miles point-to-point, with an optional summit of Mount Whitney tacked on before the long descent. Expect big country and bigger elevation swings over 5–10 days: deep forests, polished granite, high passes, and a finish atop the highest peak in the Lower 48. It’s a true thru-hike experience in a single national park corridor.

What You’ll See

From giant-forest trailheads, the route climbs to Bearpaw Meadow, then carves along cliffy ledges past Hamilton Gorge to Hamilton and Precipice Lakes beneath serrated granite like Angel Wings. You’ll crest the Great Western Divide at Kaweah Gap (~10,700 ft) for sweeping views, drop into the Big Arroyo, roll across the airy Chagoopa Plateau, and descend into the north–south trench of Kern Canyon. A steaming cement tub at Kern Hot Springs (about 115°F) sits beside the cold Kern River—arguably the best mid-hike soak in the Sierra. Near the finish, you join the west-side approach to Whitney via Crabtree and Guitar Lake—the last reliable water before the summit push—then traverse to Trail Crest and tag the summit before the long exit to Whitney Portal.

Difficulty and Commitment

Make no mistake: this is a hard, high-elevation backpack with sustained climbs, hot/dry stretches, and a one-way logistics puzzle. Much of the route is above 8,000 feet, and you’ll cross exposed terrain where summer thunderstorms move fast. It’s popular for good reason, but it’s not a casual endeavor.

Camps, Water, and Facilities

Designated camps are spaced sensibly for most itineraries, with bear boxes at many established sites. Pit toilets exist at the trailheads, Bearpaw Meadow, and Hamilton Lake. Water is generally reliable early on (Lone Pine Creek, Hamilton Lakes), but carry extra across the drier Chagoopa Plateau and during the descent/traverse in Kern Canyon. There’s no reliable water between Guitar Lake and Trail Camp on the east side—fill up before you commit to Whitney.

Permits and Logistics

A wilderness permit specifically for the High Sierra Trail is required (other permits, like the Alta Trail permit, are not valid for certain HST segments). Advance reservations are released exactly six months ahead at 7:00 a.m. Pacific and cost $15 plus $5 per person; the quota season typically runs from late May to late September. The Crescent Meadow trailhead has parking, restrooms, and summer shuttle access, but no potable water. This is a one-way hike—arrange a shuttle or pickup at Whitney Portal; there’s no direct public transit between the west and east sides.

Hazards and Timing

Early season brings hazardous creek crossings and lingering snow/ice near Precipice Lake and Kaweah Gap. Afternoon thunderstorms are common—start summit bids pre-dawn and never use the Mount Whitney summit hut as lightning shelter. Altitude illness is possible above 8,000 feet; the best treatment is to descend. Marmots are notorious near Whitney (secure your food and packs), and rattlesnakes are occasionally reported in lower, ferny stretches near the Kern.

Best Time to Hike

Aim for mid/late summer through early fall. Late July through September usually offers safer creek crossings, mostly snow-free passes, and more stable weather. Start days early for cooler temps and calmer skies, especially for the Whitney summit day. If you like quieter camps, avoid weekend starts and plan your Hamilton/Kern Hot Springs nights midweek.