High Sierra Trail

Route overview

East-west Sierra Nevada crossing from Giant Sequoia forest at Crescent Meadow to the summit of Mount Whitney via high granite country.

The High Sierra Trail begins at Crescent Meadow in Sequoia National Park and travels eastward across the heart of the Sierra Nevada, ending at the summit of Mount Whitney at 4,421 metres — the highest point in the contiguous United States. The trail was constructed by the National Park Service in the 1920s and offers one of the most scenic high-altitude routes in North America. The route traverses deep river canyons, granite ridges, glacially carved bowls, and open alpine meadows, reaching its high point at Trail Crest before the final ascent of Whitney. The remote middle section around the Kern River involves substantial elevation change and river crossings that may be hazardous in early season when snowmelt is high. Many hikers combine the HST with the John Muir Trail by returning from Whitney Portal via the JMT. The trail requires a permit system that limits overnight use and is popular — advance reservation through Recreation.gov is strongly advised.

A stunning east–west traverse of California's Sierra Nevada, starting at Crescent Meadow and finishing at the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

Trail facts

Country

United States

Region

Sierra Nevada, California

Distance

115 km

Typical duration

7–10 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

5,500 m

Best season

July–September

Trail type

Point-to-point

Access and logistics

Permits and access

A wilderness permit is required for overnight use in Sequoia National Park. Whitney Zone permits are additionally required for the final summit section. Apply via Recreation.gov.

Bookings

Permits are competitive — apply during the lottery period for peak dates.

Safety context

Altitude sickness is a risk on the final Whitney section; acclimatise before attempting the summit. River crossings are dangerous before late July in high snow years. Bear canisters are mandatory throughout the park.

Whitney Portal descent requires a permit separate from the backcountry permit. Snow can linger on Trail Crest until mid-July. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains from July onwards.

Highlights

Giant Sequoia forest at Crescent Meadow Hamilton Lakes cirque Bearpaw Meadow Kern River canyon Mount Whitney summit (4,421 m) Sunrise over the High Sierra

Why find a buddy

Remote sections of the HST with no cell coverage, high river crossings in early season, and a high-altitude summit push make a trail partner a meaningful safety and motivational advantage.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

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