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Golden Trout Lakes Trail
This trail is in John Muir Wilderness. Starting from the end of Onion Valley Road, the trail ends at Golden Trout Lakes between Dragon Peak and Kearsarge Peak. This primitive trail is steep, rugged and difficult to follow. From the parking lot to where the trail ends at the lakes is an elevation gain of 2,200 feet in 2.2 miles.
Common Destinations: Golden Trout Lakes
Download area map for trail names.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the are, visit sierraforever.org
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Weather |
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| Reservations: | Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov |
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| Restrictions: |
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| Closest Towns: |
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| Water: | Water from creeks, lakes, and springs should be treated before drinking. |
| Restroom: | Vault toilet at trailhead. Please Leave No Trace, bury human waste away from water sources. |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:From Highway 395, in Independence, CA:
- Turn west on Market Street.
- Onion Valley is about 15 miles west of in downtown Independence, at an elevation of about 9,600 feet.
- The road is usually open from May to November, depending on snow conditions.
General Notes:
Traveling in Bear Country
Historically, there has been a high level of bear activity in the Onion Valley area. At the trailhead, all food, trash and scented items must be removed from vehicles and placed in the bear proof lockers and trash cans that are located in parking areas.
Along the Golden Trout lakes Trail, all food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers, or counter balanced at least 15 feet above the ground and 10 feet horizontally from a tree trunk.
For more information about traveling in bear bear country, click here...
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
Day Hiking
Backpacking
| Reservation info: | Permits may be reserved up to 6 months in advance. |
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| Permit required?: | Y |
| Permit: | Wilderness permits are required for overnight visits. From May 1 to November 1, use is limited to 10 overnight visitors / day. |
Related Links
Location
