Are dogs allowed on High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes?

Yes, dogs are allowed on High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes?

No, High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes?

High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes is rated expert. It is 28.6 miles long with 11,506 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

ExpertOut and Back

Sequoia National Park/California

High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes

Three Rivers, California

28.6 mi

Distance

11,506 ft

Elev. Gain

13h 1m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The High Sierra Trail leads to Hamilton Lakes. Prepare for scenic views from the beginning. The first 11 miles are easy. You descend from 1.5 miles and then climb up to the lake. The High Sierra Trail leads to Hamilton Lakes. On your way to a beautiful lake, you will get a taste of the high sierra. The full trail is the 3rd most popular hiked trail. A pit toilet is located at Hamilton Lake. Just below the lake, camping is available. Prepare for a nice hike with great views.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:2,056 ft

Max:2,593 ft

3,507 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:559-565-3341
Address:CA

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the California hunting page

Status unknown — verify before visiting

High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Nine Lake Basin

Tharp's Log Trail

Tharp's Log Trail

Crescent Meadow Loop Trail

Tharp's Log and Huckleberry Trail Loop

Crescent and Log Meadows Trail

Other trails in Sequoia National Park

Tokopah Falls via Tokopah Valley Trail

General Sherman Tree Trail

Heather Lake, Emerald Lake, and Pear Lake Trail via Watchtower and Pear Lake Trails

Weaver Lake Trail

Alta Peak Trail

Heather Lake via Watchtower Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Buckeye Flat Campground

Potwisha Campground

Potwisha Dump Station

Pear Lake Winter Hut

Dorst Creek Campground

Atwell Mill Campground - Sequoia National Park

Similar trails in California

Mount Whitney Trail

Big Pine Lakes Trail

Rae Lakes Trail

Heaton Flat Trail to Iron Mountain

Sespe River Trail to Willett Hot Springs

Alta Peak Trail