Sierra High Route

Starting-trailhead wilderness permit (NPS or USFS)One permit covers the whole route from your entry trailhead. Most of the route is off-trail, so it does not count against JMT exit quotas. Steve Roper's guidebook is the standard reference.Apply or read more ↗

$15 per permit + $5 per person (Kings Canyon start)

Required in most of the route

Late July – mid September.

Plentiful — alpine lakes and streams.

Requires leaving the route over passes or by mule drop. Plan resupply carefully.

Roughly 195 miles, about half of it cross-country over talus and Class 2–3 passes, roughly parallel to the JMT but higher. Strong navigation and scrambling skills required.