Jennie Lake Trail

Overview

Jennie Lake sits just outside the park boundary in the Jennie Lakes Wilderness of Sequoia National Forest, but it’s a favorite for Sequoia trip planners. From the Fox Meadows Trailhead, the out-and-back is 10.7 miles total with about 2,050 feet of gain and typically takes around 5 hours if you keep moving. Expect a true high-country feel: forested approach, granite underfoot, a stout pass, and a big, clear alpine lake at roughly 9,000 feet.

Route Options

Most hikers take the Fox Meadows out-and-back (10.7 miles, total). Big Meadows Trailhead is an alternative that adds roughly a mile and ~400 feet of climbing to the overall effort. There’s also a longer loop tying in Weaver Lake (roughly 16 miles total by common accounts), and a separate approach from Upper Stony Creek (~11.7 miles). If you’ve got gas left at Jennie Lake, a side trip east to JO Pass delivers broad ridge views toward Mount Silliman and into the national park.

What You’ll See

The trail winds around Shell Mountain through mixed conifer forest, then opens onto classic Sierra granite near Poop Out Pass. As you crest the high point and continue, watch for wildflowers in season and keep an eye out for marmots and deer; bear encounters have been reported, too. Jennie Lake is the prize—clear, swimmable water ringed by granite slabs—with established camps mostly on the north and west shores. On the longer loop, you’ll add Weaver Lake and a few crossings of forks of Boulder Creek.

Difficulty & Trail Character

This is a sustained, sometimes punchy climb to Poop Out Pass, followed by a drop and a final climb to the lake—a rollercoaster that can sap the legs. Underfoot is mostly dirt with gravel and rock slabs, and you may encounter downed trees or sun-exposed stretches. Signage is sparse in spots; there’s a known tricky junction about three miles in where the route skirts a small pass-like rest area rather than going straight through. Trekking poles, sun protection, and an offline map are smart calls.

Best Time to Hike

Aim for June through September, adjusting for the year’s snowpack. Early summer brings cooler temps and fewer crowds; midsummer is prime for swimming and fishing but can mean more people and mosquitoes. Start early for cooler hiking, better light on the lake, and a smoother day if you’re pushing to JO Pass.

Camping & Permits

You’ll find numerous established camps at Jennie Lake (primarily on the north and west sides). Use existing sites and stay at least 100 feet from the shoreline. A wilderness permit isn’t required for trips based entirely in Jennie Lakes Wilderness, but complete the trailhead registration. If you plan to enter Sequoia or Kings Canyon National Parks from here, you’ll need a separate wilderness permit subject to quotas and fees. For any campfire or stove use, carry a valid California Campfire Permit and follow current fire restrictions.

Tips

• Download an offline map—junctions between Jennie and Weaver Lakes and the spot near three miles in can be confusing.
• Poles help on the climbs and rocky bits; bug spray helps in peak season.
• Dogs are allowed on these wilderness trails, but not on national park trails—don’t cross into the park with pets.
• If you want all-park miles only, pick a route fully inside Sequoia & Kings Canyon; if you’re after a classic Sierra lake with fewer rules and solid views, this is a great call.