Independence

South Lake via John Muir Trail is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a lake located near Independence, California.

Manzanar Japanese Relocation Site: Manzanar Trail is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Independence, California.

This trail starts at the lowest, and generally regarded hardest, trailhead in the Southern Sierras. You quickly gain elevation in what many describe as manageable but relentless. The first section of the hike has nice shade and adequate water access. Very enjoyable company to boot! Once you cross over Shepherd pass ~12,200', the scenery changes. What was once tree covered and well carved becom...

Kearsarge Pass Trail to John Muir Trail Loop is a loop trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Independence, California.

Bullfrog Lake is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Independence, California.

Golden Trout Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Independence, California.

Trip Guide ***Please note, all images after the first one are arranged in chronological order of the trip so you can easily follow along Day 1 Depending on where you are coming from your day one is most likely going to be setting up your car shuttle from Whitney Portal to Onion Valley.  Our first day setting up car shuttles and staying overnight at Onion Valley Campground.  If you are flying...

Make sure to obtain an overnight permit up to 6 months in advance. You will have to pick up your permit at one of the Inyo National Forest Visitor Centers (here) before you begin. Once you have your permit in hand, drive to the Onion Valley Trailhead (see map), which is about 15 miles west of the town of Independence, CA and sits at an elevation of 9185 feet. Park in the lot, where you can fil...

This adventure begins at Onion Valley Campground outside of Independence, CA. The parking is abundant and the road is snow dependent. Snow will be plowed as long as it is not currently being hit with a massive storm. Dogs are allowed on trail up to Kearsarge Pass (4.5 miles from the trailhead). However, as you continue west over the pass you enter Sequoia National Park, which means pets are not...