High Sierra, California

Client ratings of this location:

• 2025: 4.88/5.0
• 2024: 4.88/5.0
• 2023: 4.87/5.0
• 2022: 4.84/5.0
• 2021: 4.73/5.0
• 2020: 4.72/5.0
• 2019: 5.00/5.0

The High Sierra is probably my favorite backpacking destination in the lower 48. The range is huge and intricate; the towering mountains are majestic; the off-trail travel is both blissful and exciting; road access is very limited; and the crowded, high-use areas are easy to leave behind.

No exaggeration, I think I could spend the rest of my life exploring it.

We operate within multiple land units, including Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Inyo National Forest, and Stanislaus National Forest. These areas have much in common, including their granitic peaks and domes, glacier-carved valleys, abundance of alpine lakes, open forests, and stable sunny weather; but each has a distinct feel. Typical elevations range from 8,000 to 12,000 feet.

Our more aggressive and longer itineraries involve “high route”-type travel, including sections of the Sierra High Route, Yosemite High Route, and Kings Canyon High Basin Route.

July and early-August are ideal for High Sierra trips. Even after epic winters, we’re beyond the risk of extensive lingering snowpack and raging rivers. The vegetation is vibrant green and the wildflowers are in bloom. The days are long and full of potential. And the risk of trip-ending wildfires or wildfire smoke is much less than it is later in the summer.

What we like

• Consistently excellent weather
• Idyllic mountain travel, both on- and off-trail
• Swimming in alpine lakes
• Peak wildflower season in July

What we dislike about or are challenged by

• The high altitudes can be challenging for clients who live at sea level without proper acclimatation
• Extensive fields of talus, ranging from the size of basketballs to refrigerators, but it’s at least stable and sticky
• Isolated pockets of heavy bug pressure
• Monsoonal weather can produce cold rain and hail