Monarch Lakes via Timber Gap Trail

The drive takes about 90 minutes to get to the trailhead from Three Rivers, CA so plan accordingly and make sure you get there early. Lower Mineral Lake is located below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park.

Once you're parked and ready to jump on the trail, head to the Sawtooth Trailhead. You'll immediately feel your hear racing as you climb switchbacks for the fisrt 3/4 of a mil. When you come to the junction, head right, away from Timber Gap, and continue heading uphill. As you're climbing, you'll get great views of the valley and the Kaweah River.

As you continue head, stay close to Monarch Creek, which leads you to a small meadow, where you'll head to the right and cross the creek before entering the forest.

Once you reach the trail junction with the Crystal Lake Trail, head to the left. From here, it's about 1.2 miles to Lower Monarch Lake. As you enter the canyon, you'll get great views of Sawtooth Peak (12,343'). When you arrive at the lake, this is a great spot where if you're backpacking, you can set up camp, break out the fishing pole and relax after your uphill climb.

If you're up for it or planning to camp, you can check out Upper Monarch Lake with an extra mile hike roundtrip. When you're ready, head up the rocky path situated between the two lakes.