Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
5
Florence Lake
to South Lake
S
CENERY
:
T
RAIL CONDITION
:
C
HILDREN
:
D
IFFICULTY
:
S
OLITUDE
:
D
ISTANCE
:
45 miles
H
IKING TIME
:
5-7 days
O
UTSTANDING FEATURES
:
Blayney Hot Springs, Evolution Valley, Muir Pass, Le Conte
Canyon, Dusy Basin, Bishop Pass
Arguably one of the most beautiful and challenging stretches along both the John
Muir and Pacific Crest trails, this section traverses the renowned Evolution Valley, a
remote high-altitude wonderland of jagged peaks, glacial cirques, stark alpine lakes,
and wildflower-strewn meadows. And the remote locale, combined with some difficult
climbs, nearly ensures some degree of solitude. It's possible to begin your journey
with a soak in nearby hot springs before you rise through Evolution Valley and the
lofty heights of Muir Pass (11,955 feet) in the heart of Sequoia and Kings Canyon na-
tional parks. After dropping down into Le Conte Canyon, your journey leaves the
JMT to venture east through the sparse forest and granite bowls of Dusy Basin and
up to amazing Bishop Pass (11,972 feet). Descending toward Owens Valley, enjoy the
region's many high-altitude lakes and meadows.
DIRECTIONS: F
LORENCE
L
AKE TRAILHEAD
—The trail begins at the ferry landing
for Florence Lake. To get to Florence Lake you will most likely need a friend to pick
you up or try your hand at hitchhiking. The closest main highway is CA 168, 30 miles
northeast of Fresno, but the final 20 miles of your journey is a feat to be applauded. It
can be done in just about any car, but be prepared for some interesting (and stun-
ning) rough-road driving.
From Prather, take CA 168 north to the first stop sign. Turn left to stay on CA
168 past Shaver Lake and Sierra Summit Ski Resort. At Huntington Lake, turn right
for Edison Lake and follow a good road for 6 miles. The next 14 miles are on an in-
timidating and winding one-lane road with potholes the size of small craters and lots
of gravel. Allow at least two hours from this juncture. It appears as if they did not
