Are dogs allowed on Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake?

No, Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake 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 Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake?

Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake is rated expert. It is 35.1 miles long with 12,552 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.

Is Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake suitable for kids?

Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

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

California

Onion Valley to Gardiner Lake

Independence, California

35.1 mi

Distance

12,552 ft

Elev. Gain

17h 22m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail starts at the Onion Valley Campgroud and goes up to Kearsarge Pass and back down to Charlotte Lake. It's amazing the views are.

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:2,731 ft

Max:3,602 ft

3,826 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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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