Shepherd Pass Trail
The Shepherd Pass trail climbs a demanding 6,000 feet from the Owens Valley to 12,000-foot Shepherd Pass. Then, it enters Sequoia National Park and joins the John Muir Trail near Tyndall Creek. Due to a persistent snowfield, steep terrain and talus, the Shepherd Pass trail is frequently impassable to stock above about 10,800 feet.
Common Destinations: Mahogany Flat, Shepherd Pass, John Muir Trail
Download area map for trail names.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org
Vehicles with stock trailers should park at the Shepherd Pack Trail parking lot.
Current Conditions
Flood damage on lower portions of the trail. It is not currently recomended for stock and caution is recommended for all users.Food storage lockers available at trailhead. No other services. Weather
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.
General Information
- Wilderness permit required year round for overnight trips.
- Day use does not require a permit.
- May 1 through November 1 overnight visitors are limited to 15 people per day.
Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
- No campfires at Anvil Camp; and no campfires at all locations above 10,400 ft.
- Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers or counter balance.
- Grazing prohibited east of Shepherd Pass.
- Camping with stock prohibited at Anvil Camp.
- John Muir Wilderness Regulations
- Kings Canyon National Park regulations
Getting There
Directions
From US Highway 395, in Independence, CA:
- Turn west on Market Street. Travel 4.3 miles to Foothill Rd.
- Turn south on Foothill Rd and travel 2.8 miles to the Shepherd Pack Trailhead.
- Approximately 1/2 mile past the Shepherd Pack Trailhead, turn west on a small, rough dirt road.
- Follow the main track approximately 1.3 miles to the Shepherd Pass Trailhead. This road is unpaved and may be quite rough.
