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Hike to Lower Monarch Lake

Three Rivers, California

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

8.4 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kristina Zhylenkova

Perfect for a day hike. Mileage: 4.2 miles (one-way) to Lower Monarch Lake. The trail reaches 10,400 feet at the lake. Duration: Full-day.

The drive takes about 90 minutes to get to the trailhead from Three Rivers, CA so plan accordingly and make sure you get there early. Lower Mineral Lake is located below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park.

Once you're parked and ready to jump on the trail, head to the Sawtooth Trailhead. You'll immediately feel your hear racing as you climb switchbacks for the fisrt 3/4 of a mil. When you come to the junction, head right, away from Timber Gap, and continue heading uphill. As you're climbing, you'll get great views of the valley and the Kaweah River.

As you continue head, stay close to Monarch Creek, which leads you to a small meadow, where you'll head to the right and cross the creek before entering the forest.

Once you reach the trail junction with the Crystal Lake Trail, head to the left. From here, it's about 1.2 miles to Lower Monarch Lake. As you enter the canyon, you'll get great views of Sawtooth Peak (12,343'). When you arrive at the lake, this is a great spot where if you're backpacking, you can set up camp, break out the fishing pole and relax after your uphill climb.

If you're up for it or planning to camp, you can check out Upper Monarch Lake with an extra mile hike roundtrip. When you're ready, head up the rocky path situated between the two lakes.

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Features

Fishing
Photography
Swimming
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Reviews

This is a great trail in Mineral King. I personally went past this lake and all the way up Sawtooth Peak, which has a lot of climbing/bouldering but definitely worth it!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backpack the Little Five & Big Five Lakes Loop

Backpack to Crystal Lakes

Backpack in Mineral King

Backpack to Franklin Lakes & Franklin Pass

Camp at Buckeye Flat in Sequoia National Park

Hike Crescent Meadow