Balch Park Trail

Located off the M-90 (closed from Nov.-May) in the Sequoia National Forest, the Trail of 100 Giants provides a perfect stroll for nearby campers or a quick 30-minute stop for families driving by to get a glimpse of some truly awe-inspiring, overhead views.  $5 day parking and restrooms can be found at a designated parking lot as well as Redwood Meadow Campground, both directly across the stree...

Situated right across the street from the stunning Trail of 100 Giants, Redwood Meadows features 13 spacious campsites adjacent to a picturesque meadow. There are picnic tables, fire rings, and six yurt sites available for those who wish to bring some of the great indoors outside.  Pit toilets are located at the entrance to the campground and are well-maintained. There is also a "gift shop" sty...

Franklin Lakes is part of the Sequoia National Park and can be reached from the trailhead starting near the Mineral King Ranger Station. Bear containers are required and can be rented at the Ranger Station. The hike to Franklin Lakes campground will take 6 hours or less (depending on your speed/how much weight you're carrying) to cover 5.7 miles and will gain 2,500 ft in elevation.Ideally, it ...

The trailhead is right near the Mineral King Ranger Station (on Mineral King Rd) in Sequoia National Park. Depending on where you're coming from I would recommend driving in and camping at Cold Springs Campground (which is also in close proximity to the ranger station) the night before you begin your trip. Day 1: In the morning you can either leave your car at the ranger station or drive a litt...

The trail to Crystal Lakes begins at the Timber Gap/Sawtooth Trailhead (7,800 feet elevation), which is located at the end of Mineral King Valley Rd.  The trail immediately ascends through a meadow boasting dramatic alpine views and a roaring waterfall. Eventually you'll cross Monarch Creek and begin a series of switchbacks that leads you through a red fir forest. The trail then levels for a sh...

Day 1: A long, rewarding day. Over the course of 11.5 miles you will complete around 10,000ft of elevation change.  To start, park the car at the Sawtooth-Monarch Trailhead (7500ft) and begin on the trail, immediately ascending to Timber Gap (9500ft).  Once at the gap, the trail makes it's way down in to a Valley as it follows a series of endless switchbacks.  After crossing creek, you will beg...