Are dogs allowed on Nine Lake Basin?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Nine Lake Basin but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Nine Lake Basin?

No, Nine Lake Basin 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 Nine Lake Basin?

Nine Lake Basin is rated expert. It is 34.5 miles long with 14,826 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

Nine Lake Basin

Three Rivers, California

34.5 mi

Distance

14,826 ft

Elev. Gain

16h 9m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The High Sierra Trail leads to the Nine Lakes Basin. Prepare for scenic views and a high sierra feeling when you travel to Nine Lakes Basin. The last half mile is required to get to the lower lake. It is an easy trail, but requires you to cross the bridge past Bearpaw Meadow. A long climb to Kaweah Gap. It is recommended to stay at Bearpaw one night and then hike uphill the next day if you want to take it easy.

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:3,261 ft

4,519 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

Nine Lake Basin

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Tharp's Log Trail

Tharp's Log Trail

Crescent Meadow Loop Trail

High Sierra Trail to Hamilton Lakes

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

Rae Lakes Trail

Heaton Flat Trail to Iron Mountain

Sespe River Trail to Willett Hot Springs

American River Bike Trail (Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail)

Pioneertown to Big Bear via Burns Canyon Road and 2N02