Onion Valley to Roads End

The trek from Onion Valley to Roads End via Bubbs Creek is an adventurous point-to-point hike in the Eastern Sierra, starting from the Onion Valley Campground. This 21.8-mile journey is typically completed as a multi-day backpacking trip, as it takes hikers deep into the heart of Kings Canyon National Park.

Starting at the Onion Valley Campground, hikers will ascend the Kearsarge Pass Trail. This initial climb is steep and challenging, but it offers stunning panoramic views of the Kearsarge Pinnacles and the Sierra high country.

Once over the pass, the trail descends into the beautiful Kearsarge Basin and continues to the John Muir Trail (JMT)/Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) junction. You’ll head south on the PCT/JMT to Vidette Meadow and then head west on Bubbs Creek Trail. Follow Bubbs Creek Trail all the way to Roads End. 

The flora along this trail varies from lush meadows, dotted with wildflowers, to sparse high-altitude vegetation. The fauna in the region includes diverse wildlife, from the marmots and pikas in the rocky alpine zones to black bears and deer in the forested areas.

This trail is recommended for hikers who are physically fit, acclimated to high altitudes, and experienced in backcountry travel. 

PARKING AND PERMITS

Backpacking permits are required and can be obtained from the Inyo National Forest or the Kings Canyon National Park visitor centers. With limited services available between Onion Valley and Roads End, hikers need to plan logistics carefully, including transportation back to the trailhead, as there is no shuttle service. Parking is available at both Onion Valley and Roads End.

CONSIDERATIONS

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

• To complete this route as a point-to-point visitors must have two cars and figure out a way to get a ride from one end to the other. 

• Wilderness permits are required for overnight visits.

• Day use does not require a permit. 

• Approximately half of the route is above 10,000 feet in elevation.

ONION VALLEY / KEARSARGE PASS TRAIL 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. 

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.