Inyo National Forest

Onion Valley is a popular access point for crossing about 5 miles through the John Muir Wilderness to reach the east side of Sequoia National Park, then connect with the Pacific Crest Trail in another 3 miles. The route crosses Kearsarge Pass and leads to Bullfrog Lake and the Rae Lakes Basin.

1. Kearsarge Pass - An 11 mile roundtrip to 11,823 feet. The trail begins about 9200' at the Onion Valley Campground. At this elevation, the arid flora is just beginning to give way to alpine forest. A steep and exposed ascent levels out at Pothole Lake. Wildflowers dot the trail in season and an occasional grouse diverts hikers. The climb begins again on an open slope to reach the pass. Keep pressing upward because when you top the summit, the reward will unfold before your eyes. The Kearsarge Pinnacles soar on the left side of the panorama, with two spurs walling in Vidette Canyon behind. Bullfrog Lake rests about a mile and a half in the distance. The Pacific Crest Trail connects in 2.8 miles.

2. Dragon Peak and Golden Trout Lake - A 6 to 7 mile roundtrip to 11400'. The trail heads northwest from the Onion Valley campground to reach Golden Trout Lake and a second lake lying beneath 12,995' Dragon Peak.