Lakes Trail: The Most Beautiful Trail in Sequoia National Park

The Lakes trail gets it’s name because of the four alpine lakes that sit along the trail. It is without a doubt the most beautiful area in the park. Not only is Sequoia known for it’s large Sequoia trees, but there are a lot of amazing mountain terrain and alpine lakes to explore within the park. The park covers 400,000 acres and 84% of that land is designated wilderness area, meaning there are no roads or crowds like main trails within the park.

Emerald and Pear Lake sit along the Lakes Trail and are the perfect place to escape the Sequoia crowds and enjoy some of the rugged beauty of the National Park. These lakes are located at the end of what is known as “The Lakes Trail.” Accordingly, it gets it’s name from the four alpine lakes that sit along it. The Lakes trail has everything from wildlife sightings, viewpoints, alpine lakes and towering mountain ridges, making it the perfect trail.

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Things to Know About Hiking The Lakes Trail

• This trail can be day hiked or done as a backpacking trip. There is no permit required for day hiking. If you wish to backpack you must obtain a backpacking permit prior to starting. I will share more about that process below. Both day hikers and backpackers will need to pay the National Park entrance fee or have a yearly pass.

• The trail is referred to as the “Lakes Trail” because it passes four alpine lakes. The lakes are Heather Lake, Aster Lake, Emerald Lake and Pear Lake. All the lakes are worth a visit, but most hikers are headed to Emerald and Pear Lake.

• The trail to Watchtower is closed in the winter and can close year round for various reasons like snow or rock hazards. There is a very large sign that will state if it is closed about 1.7 miles in. If it is closed do not continue down the trail, otherwise you put yourself and rescue crews in danger. Take The Hump trail, which connects to the Watchtower trail above. Both trails are steep, but The Hump gains more elevation before dropping down to connect with the trail.

• There are bears in the park. Always carry bear spray and know what to do if you encounter a bear. If you wish to backpack the trail you will be required to carry a bear canister. There is regular bear activity on this trail and a high chance you will have a bear encounter of some sort. I saw a black bear less than 20 feet off trail while backpacking in.

• There are campgrounds both at Pear Lake and Emerald Lake, but not at Heather or Aster Lakes. Both lakes are absolutely beautiful to camp. I stayed at Emerald Lake and after visiting both that would be my preferred choice again. I found the lake to be a bit quieter from other campers and the lake felt more impressive to me. I also preferred that I could camp at the closer lake and day hike up to Pear Lake without a heavy pack.

Leave No Trace Principles

Be sure to know and follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles on trail. It’s so important to help protect these beautiful places we love and enjoy. Make sure you know these principles before going out on a hike.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Always check for current weather updates and educate yourself on trail conditions prior to starting a hike. Look for recent reviews or call the local ranger station for up-to-date trail information like closures, recent wildlife and road conditions. 

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to the trail. Avoid going off trail unless it’s to go to the bathroom. You can capture amazing photos from the trail. Do not cut switchbacks. Stepping off trail can cause years of damage with just one simple step. Camp in exciting campsites rather than over vegetation.  

• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and food scraps. Never toss food items on the ground. It is harmful to the wildlife. Properly dispose of human waste by digging a cat hole at least 6 inches deep and burying human waste. Bring a wag back to pack it out in fragile alpine terrain. Never leave toilet paper or feminine hygiene products behind because they shouldn’t be disposed of on trail. Being a bag and pack them out to dispose of properly. Same goes for dog poop. Properly burry it or pack it back out to dispose of. Do not leave dog poop bags on the side of the trail. They are easy to forget, animals can get into them and other hikers don’t want to see them. 

• Leave What You Find: Do not take objects like plant off trail with you. Preserve nature by not marking on rocks or harming any natural objects. Never pick wildflowers. It is illegal in many states. 

• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Check and follow all local wildfire regulations. Use exciting fire rings and keep fires small. Put fires out properly by dousing will multiple gallons of water. Coals should be cool to the touch before walking away. 

• Respect Wildlife: Never touch, feed or approach wildlife. Give a minimum of 25 yards to all wildlife and a minimum or 100 yard for predators and larger wildlife. Wildlife are not like house pets. They can spook easily or feel threatened. Stay in your car if wildlife is near the road.

• Be Considerate of Others : Respect other hikers by allowing those that hike faster to pass. Uphill hikers have the right of way, so safely step aside for them to pass, unless they offer to stop first. Limit noise and use headphones. Keep groups under 8. Say hello to a fellow hiker!

Lakes Trail Trail Location

Emerald and Pear Lake are located along “The Lakes Trail” in Sequoia National Park. Sequoia National Park sits within the Sierra mountain range of California. The Park entrance is just an hour outside of Fresno, California. National Park entry fees will be require for entry into the park to hike this trail, which you can purchase at the gate, in stores like REI or online..

The trailhead to the Lakes Trail is located on the north side of a large parking lot at the end of Wolverton Road, but you can park anywhere there is an open spot. It is located just south of the Lodgepole Visitor Center and Market. The trailhead is located on the north side of the parking lot, just to the left when you get to the parking lot. The parking lot is a large circle lot so if it’s busy you can drive around to find a spot and walk back towards the trailhead. Just past Wolverton Road is the Giant Forest Museum, where permits can be purchased or picked up for backpacking.

Best Time of Year to Hike The Lakes Trail

The Lakes Trail is accessible year-round, but read on to learn more about the conditions. The best time to hike to Emerald and Pear Lakes will depend on the experience you are hoping to have here. In the winter and spring months there will be snow on the trail, which may require snowshoes or microspikes depending on the levels. The Watchtower trail will also be closed then so hikers wanting to see this viewpoint would want to wait, but the lakes and surrounding peaks will be beautiful with a layer of snow.

Late spring-early fall will bring about much warmer weather. Early spring may still have snow present at higher elevations but less people than summer and fall months. These seasons will allow hikers to see the lakes unfrozen and warmer camping for those wishing to backpack. I backpacked this trail at the end of June and the weather was warm, but enjoyable and the wildflowers were amazing!

Lakes Trail Info

Be sure to check the trail signs for any important information about the lakes trail and use the boot cleaner to prevent the spread of invasive species. The trail instantly beings climbing in elevation as you make your way along a tree lined ridge, but the trees provide good shade. The first 2 miles of this hike are through a forested area and is overall very shady. After about a mile the trail has some meadow areas nearby and switchbacks begin. This forested section is where I saw a bear on my first day about 20 feet off trail. Bear sighting are regular in this area.

There are two trail options for reaching the lakes 1.7 miles in at the Watchtower junction. One trail takes hikers past The Watchtower and the other is referred to as The Hump. The trail past Watchtower is along a rock wall with a large drop off. There is plenty of space to walk and pass people but if you are uncomfortable with these types of trails you won’t want to take the Watchtower route. The AllTrails map linked below shows the route that avoids Watchtower, taking The Hump. The Watchtower trail has the more impressive views though.

I took the Hump trail up because it’s slightly shorter in distance, but is definitely steeper. I wanted the shorter option to get to camp and didn’t want to go down the steeper trail since I knew I wanted to take both trails. The Hump is a good huff up the hill before opening up to a view of the valley below just before reaching the lakes. The trail then drops back down to The Lakes Trail before reaching Heather Lake.

Heather Lake is the first of the lakes and much smaller in size. It’s a beautiful and quiet spot to see and just a short trek from the main trail. From the lake the trail still has some elevation gain but it is much more gradual and a relief from the climb to it. In summer months the wildflowers will be starting to appear in this area and up to Pear Lake. The trail takes hikers through rock-filled meadows but there is no real rock scrambling required.

As you approach Emerald Lake, Aster Lake will be visible below but doesn’t have a trail down to it. There is a building with vaulted toilets at Emerald Lake to the left. After passing a small creek there is a junction that takes hikers to the left towards Pear Lake or straight to the campground and Emerald Lake. The lake is surrounded by large smooth boulders, so use them to walk and explore the shoreline. Avoid Any off trail walking through the fragile meadows because it takes years to recover from a single footstep.

From the junction at Emerald Lake, Pear Lake is an additional mile over the next ridge. The trail continues to climb but it a relatively gradual climb. If it is wet or icy out be cautious of walking on the slick rocks. Pear Lake is like Emerald Lake and surrounded by rock. Both are great places to camp if you are backpacking but I was happy at Emerald Lake. There were fewer campers around and I didn’t have to carry my full pack as far to enjoy the views.

Getting a Backpacking Permit For The Lakes Trail

Backpacking Permits are required during the quota season which is Memorial weekend to the end of September. Advanced permits can be obtained starting every year at the end of November on a 6 month or 1 week rolling window. All permit information is available on recreation.gov, which is also where permits can be obtained. Simply search for Pear and Emerald Lakes as the destination within the Lodgepole entry area.

If you are unable to obtain a permit in advance, there is a limited amount available as walk up permits, which is what I did. I went to the Giant Forest Museum just past Lodgepole. Once you arrive at the museum walk past the main entrance doors to the far end of the building. There is a second set of double doors where a ranger will be at a desk issuing permits. The permits are available starting at 1PM the day prior to when you want to start hiking. I did not have a line to wait in but plan to get there early in case there is a line to better your chances of obtaining a permit.

If you cannot make it to the Giant Forest Museum the day prior to get a permit, go here and click “getting here” to see other locations for obtaining a permit the day prior.

What to Bring Hiking

The 10 Essentials

No matter the length or difficulty of a hike, you should always carry a backpack with the 10 essentials, so pack accordingly. You can learn more about these item in my “The 10 Essentials” guide. This hike is very exposed at the end and mountain terrain weather can change quickly. Be sure to pack extra clothing layers and plenty of snacks fro day hiking.

Bear Spray and Bear Bell

Bear Protection

There are bears in the area so you must go prepared to possibly encounter one. I passed a bear no more than 20 feet off trail hiking on this trail. Carry bear spray and a bear canister to properly store your food and any scented items. If you do not own a bear can or want to buy one, you can often rent them from stores like REI.

Backpack

Whether you’re day hiking Kearsarge Pass or backpacking in, having a good backpack is key to your comfort. I prefer having something with a hip belt to help take pressure off my shoulders. I also like a pack that’s at least 25L for day hiking so I an have plenty of room for gear.

Water and water filter

This hike is strenuous and exposed. You will sweat and need to consume plenty of water. Carry a water bladder or water bottle to hold your water and a water filter to replenish your water supply. Plan to have one liter of water per 2 hours of hiking, but because this is a difficult hike, carry at least an extra .5 per two hours.

Hiking Shoes

Always wear proper shoes when hiking. This means trail runners or hiking boots because they will provide the best traction over rocks and loose terrain. If your backpacking, take a pair of camp sandals for when you get to the lake. I like these because they are lightweight to carry and easy to wear with socks.

Bug Spray

Hiking to an alpine lake always comes with mosquitoes. Hiking in the fall will reduce how many mosquitoes are at the lake, but there is always a mosquito presence, so go prepared. Carry bug spray for your clothes and skin. If it’s early in the summer season, consider extra clothing layers to keep them off your skin and a bug net for you head. The snowfields are also a breeding ground for them. You can learn more about insect repellents and gear in my guide, here. I hiked mid-August and had zero issues with bugs thankfully, but every year will be different.

Trail Technology

If you have the means, it’s so important to carry a satellite communications device with you into the backcountry. This will allow you to get ahold of emergency services should you need it but also communicate with friends or family off trail. I also use a Garmin watch to track mileage and elevation on the trail so I can properly determine where I am on the hike.

Backpacking Gear

If you are lucky enough to backpack here, be sure to check out my “Backpacking Gear” guide to learn everything you need for a successful backpacking trip. Below is a list of the gear I took with me. You must take a bear vault with you on this trail. You can store your food in the provided bear lockers at camp as well, but know they are shared and not at every sight. There is no bear hang bags allowed.

• REI single person tent
• Half Dome footprint
• Klymit double sleeping pad
• REI Magma Sleeping bag
• Jetboil + fuel
• Long spork
• Collapsible mug
• Bear canister
• Water filter
• Backpacking backpack
• Hiking Poles
• Bear Spray
• Seat cushion
• Dinner, breakfast and snacks
• Camp clothes: Long pants, socks, underwear fleece, down jacket, hat and gloves
• Camp shoes
• Skip-Bo game
• Battery pack and phone charger

Backpacking Responsibly

What does this mean? It means follow the Leave No Trace Principles and limit your impact on the trail.

• Plan ahead and prepare. This means researching the area ahead of time, knowing the weather forecast and packing accordingly. Planning and preparing for a trip is important to keep you safe and allow you to enjoy your trip stress free.

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces. This means finding a campsite where you can tell others have camp prior rather than finding a new campsite. Do not put your tent on vegetation or in meadows because it causes harm to the vegetation. Be responsible in choosing a site and limit your footprint in the backcountry, but also camp in the designated site. Stay on trail and do not walk through sensitive environments like meadows.

• Leave What You Find. Nature is amazing but belongs in nature. Do not pick wildflowers or bring home rocks or other items you may find. Do not mark on rocks or vandalize nature. 

• Dispose of Waste Properly. All garbage should be packed back out with you and disposed of properly at home. Bring a ziplock bag for toilet paper. Use a shovel to dig a cat hole and bury any human waste 6-8 inches underground or pack it out with you if that is not an option. Food items such as peels and nut shells should also be disposed of properly in a bag and taken back off trail with you.

• Respect Wildlife. Do not feed or approach any wildlife. Minimize your noise by not playing music outdoors. Know the wildlife for the area so you are prepared for encounters. Do not leave food or garbage accessible (bear bag hangs are best).

• Minimize Campfire Impacts. Always know the local guidelines for your area before starting a fire. Many locations do seasonal bans depending on the season. Use an existing fire ring whenever possible. If you must create a new ring clear the ground of all debris and use a location with minimal impact to the vegetation. Make sure you fire is completely out by dousing it in water multiple times and never throw garbage into the fire.

• Be Considerate of Other Visitors. Be aware of your noise levels and be sure to kindly share the trail. Know proper trail etiquette so everyone can enjoy their time outside in nature. Remember, others may be afraid of dogs or have allergies so keep you dog on leash or safely away from others.

Emerald and Pear Lake Reminders

• Marmots are all over the place and love the salt from sweat and pee. Be sure to hang everything like backpacks and poles or they will chew through them. Use the provided outhouse to limit how often you spread salt from your pee. If you must pee outside, pee on rocks to prevent the marmots from digging in the vegetation to get to the salt.

• There is regular bear activity on this trail and a good chance you could have a bear encounter. Pack bear spray and know what to do if you have a bear encounter on trail. Store food properly to keep bears out of camp and prevent an encounter.

• Dogs are not allowed on this trail, even on leash. If you have a furry friend, plan to keep them at home or find accommodations for them while you are hiking. I saw multiple people trying to hike with their dogs on this trail despite signs stating otherwise. The trail has very regular ranger traffic since there is a ranger station located between the lakes. They will turn you around and possibly fine you for bringing a dog on trail. It’s important to respect trail rules, they are there to protect us and our animals.

• You must have a permit to backpack here, so do not attempt to backpack if you have not obtained one prior to hiking. The rangers will explain where to camp, but be sure to only camp in the designated spots to help limit our footprint on these beautiful alpine lakes.

I hope this guide helps successful hike or backpack the Lakes Trail! If you have any further questions or want to share your experience after, please leave a comment below!

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