About This Route
From Kennedy Meadows North to Tuolumne Meadows (PCT miles 702-993), this 291-mile High Sierra section rivals the John Muir Trail for epic backpacking. Cross Forester Pass (13,200 feet), Glen Pass, and Mather Pass amid granite spires, Evolution Valley, and Rae Lakes. Bear-proof permits mandatory; resupply at Muir Trail Ranch. Snow lingers into July; check SNO-PARK reports. This crown jewel demands respect, with REI Co-op classes recommended for ice axe use.
Safety Considerations
Altitude sickness primary threat; acclimate in Lone Pine, use Diamox if prescribed, monitor with pulse oximeter. Snowfields on north-facing slopes require microspikes (Kahtoola) and ice axe (Black Diamond Raven); self-arrest practice essential per Mountaineers protocol. Lightning over exposed passes; bivouac below treeline post-2pm. Stream crossings at Palisade Creek deadly in snowmelt: wade perpendicular, link arms in groups, unbuckle packs. Bears active; use hard-sided canisters, cook 300 feet from tents. Hypothermia risk in sudden storms; layer with Patagonia Nano Puff. Stream hazards include strainers at Rae Lakes outlet; scout bends, avoid undercut banks per NPS water safety guidelines. Low fatality rate per Halfway Anywhere data, but preparation key.
Essential Gear
Garmin inReach Explorer+ for weather/forecasts; BV450 bear canister; Katadyn BeFree filter. REI Co-op Trailmade 40 sleeping bag for 20F nights; Petzl Headlamp with extra batteries.