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Jennie Lakes Wilderness: A Sierra Nevada Escape

Discover alpine beauty in Sequoia National Forest's Jennie Lakes Wilderness: hiking, camping, and stunning Sierra Nevada scenery await!

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Escape to the serene Jennie Lakes Wilderness, a 10,500-acre haven in Sequoia National Forest. Discover alpine lakes, lush meadows, and towering forests, with trails connecting to Kings Canyon National Park. Perfect for hiking, camping, and immersing yourself in nature's beauty.

A brief summary to Jennie Lakes Wilderness

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring a water filter, as numerous streams and lakes are available but should be treated before drinking.
  • A California Campfire Permit is required for any open flame, including campfires and stoves.
  • Store food properly to protect it from black bears, using bear-resistant canisters or Ursacks.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the high altitude can bring unexpected changes.
  • Check with the Hume Lake Ranger District for current trail conditions and fire restrictions before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Jennie Lakes Wilderness from Fresno, take State Highway 180 east into Kings Canyon National Park. Pass through the Big Stump Entrance Station, where a standard amenity fee is collected. Continue for 7 miles and turn left onto Big Meadows Forest Road (14S11) to access most trailheads. The road to the trailheads is open to vehicle traffic, but in winter and early spring, Big Meadows Road is closed due to snow. During this time, trails and roads are open to foot traffic. There is no fee to enter the Jennie Lakes Wilderness, but Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park charges entrance fees.

  • Parking

    Parking is available at the trailheads, including Big Meadows, Rowell Meadow and Stony Creek. Parking at Big Meadows Trailhead is a large parking area. Parking can be congested, especially during peak season. There is ample parking at most of the trailheads. Check the info boards located at each trailhead for updated Forest Service information. There are self-registration boxes at each trailhead to help track visitor information.

Unlock the Best of Jennie Lakes Wilderness

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Discover more about Jennie Lakes Wilderness

The Jennie Lakes Wilderness, nestled in the southeast corner of the Hume Lake Ranger District in Sequoia National Forest, offers a stunning escape into the Sierra Nevada mountains. This 10,500-acre wilderness, most of which sits above 7,000 feet, is a diverse landscape of alpine and sub-alpine forests, sparkling lakes, verdant meadows, and clear streams. Here, you'll find a mix of White & Red Fir, Lodgepole Pine, Western White Pine, Jeffrey & Ponderosa Pine, with wildflowers painting the meadows in vibrant colors during spring and summer. The wilderness is named after Jennie Ellis, a mountaineer's wife. Mitchell Peak, the highest point in the area at 10,365 feet, rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the High Sierra. The area is adjacent to both Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, offering access to even more backcountry adventures. With 26 miles of trails, the Jennie Lakes Wilderness caters to both day hikers and backpackers. Popular destinations include Jennie Lake and Weaver Lake, known for their scenic beauty and fishing opportunities. Several trails connect to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park's backcountry, allowing for extended trips. Visitors can access the wilderness via four trailheads: Stony Creek, Big Meadows, Rowell Meadow, and Marvin Pass. Each trailhead offers a unique route into this pristine area. While no wilderness permit is required to enter Jennie Lakes Wilderness, visitors are asked to fill out a voluntary registration card at the trailheads. However, if you plan to enter Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks via Jennie Lakes Wilderness, a backcountry permit from the Park Service is required. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike to Mitchell Peak, a peaceful camping trip by Jennie Lake, or a multi-day backpacking adventure, the Jennie Lakes Wilderness promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

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