Charlotte Lake

This 17-mile out-and-back takes you from Onion Valley to Charlotte Lake, a picturesque alpine lake in Kings Canyon National Park. It is a fun excursion from Onion Valley located off Highway 395 outside of Independence, California. The Charlotte Lake Trail is accessible via Kearsarge Pass and the  Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) / John Muir Trail (JMT). This is an excellent adventure for anyone seeking a moderately challenging hike that offers the grandeur and beauty of Sierra Nevada and Kings Canyon National Parks in a day or over a weekend. The trail is suitable for running, hiking, backpacking, and camping.  

Starting from Onion Valley, the Kearsarge Pass Trail climbs through pine forest, passes several alpine lakes, and leads to the top of Kearsarge Pass (11,700’) and into Kings Canyon National Park.  Descend Kearsarge Pass and follow the Kearsarge Pass Trail to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) / John Muir Trail (JMT). You will soon reach the Charlotte Lake Trail junction, which leads down to the lake.

CONSIDERATIONS

• This is an active bear area which requires proper food storage. 

• There are bear lockers available at Charlotte Lake. 

• Wilderness permits are required for overnight visits.

• Day use does not require a permit. 

• 2 night maximum for camping at Charlotte Lake. 

TRAILHEAD

The trailhead for Kearsarge Pass Trail  is located at Onion Valley, west of Independence off of Highway 395. The trailhead features a large parking area, toilets, bear vaults, and water. The paved parking area is available for day use and overnight parking.

• This is an active bear area and visitors are advised not to leave food or scented items in their cars. 

• The road to the trailhead is usually open May-November. 

• The Onion Valley Campground is also located at the trailhead and sites can be reserved in advance through www.recreation.gov. 

CAMPING AND PERMITS

There are many beautiful campsites located on the northwest shore of Charlotte Lake. There is a 2-night camping limit for Charlotte Lake and an overnight permit is required. For more information please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=20784. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Kearsarge Pass Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=20784.

Wilderness Permits and Reservations: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/inyo/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_003808.