Sequoia National Park offers a unique hut-to-hut hiking experience, allowing adventurers to explore the stunning High Sierra landscape while enjoying comfortable accommodations along the way. The primary hut-to-hut trail in Sequoia National Park centers around the Bearpaw High Sierra Camp, an 11.5-mile journey from Crescent Meadow. This guide provides comprehensive information on trails, itineraries, permits, and amenities for those seeking to embark on a Sequoia National Park hiking hut to hut adventure.
What Are the Main Hut-to-Hut Trails in Sequoia National Park?

The primary hut-to-hut experience in Sequoia National Park revolves around the Bearpaw High Sierra Camp. Here are the key details:
- Trail: Crescent Meadow to Bearpaw High Sierra Camp
- Distance: 11.5 miles one-way
- Elevation: Starts at 6,800 feet, ends at 7,800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Crescent Meadow, approximately 10 miles south of Wuksachi Lodge
While not exclusively within Sequoia National Park, the High Sierra Hut to Hut experience includes parts of the park and extends to the broader High Sierra region, incorporating sections of the John Muir Trail.
How Can I Plan a Comprehensive Hut-to-Hut Hiking Itinerary?

Here’s a sample 4-day itinerary focused on the Bearpaw High Sierra Camp:
Day 1: Crescent Meadow to Bearpaw High Sierra Camp
- Distance: 11.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Estimated Hiking Time: 7 hours
- Overnight: Bearpaw High Sierra Camp
Day 2-3: Explore from Bearpaw Camp
- Day hikes to nearby alpine lakes, meadows, and viewpoints
- Return to Bearpaw Camp each night
Day 4: Bearpaw High Sierra Camp to Crescent Meadow
- Distance: 11.5 miles
- Elevation Loss: 1,000 feet
- Estimated Hiking Time: 7 hours
What Are the Permit Requirements for Hut-to-Hut Hiking?
For hut-to-hut hiking in Sequoia National Park, particularly for stays at Bearpaw High Sierra Camp:
- Wilderness Permits:
- Required but free for Bearpaw High Sierra Camp guests
- No advance reservation needed if staying only at Bearpaw Camp
-
Pickup at Lodgepole Visitor Center (open daily 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
-
Backcountry Hut Reservations:
- Make reservations online or call (866) 807-3598 for Bearpaw High Sierra Camp
- Check availability regularly for cancellations
What Amenities Are Available at Backcountry Huts?
Bearpaw High Sierra Camp:
- Sleeping: Tent cabins with beds
- Meals: Home-cooked, family-style breakfast and dinner (vegetarian options available)
- Facilities: Showers and other amenities
- Location: 11.5 miles into the wilderness
Pear Lake Winter Hut (Seasonal):
- Sleeping: Ten bunk beds with mattresses (no bedding provided)
- Cooking: Coleman cookstoves (fuel not provided), utensils, plates, mugs, and bowls
- Facilities: Composting toilet
- Location: At 9,200 feet, accessible via a 6-mile ski or snowshoe trail from Wolverton
How Should I Prepare for a Hut-to-Hut Hiking Trip?
- Physical Preparation:
- Train for moderate to strenuous hiking
- Practice with a loaded backpack
-
Acclimate to high altitudes if possible
-
Gear Checklist:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers)
- Backpack (30-40 liters)
- Water bottles or hydration system
- First aid kit
- Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
-
Headlamp or flashlight
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Reservation and Permit Planning:
- Book Bearpaw High Sierra Camp well in advance
- Obtain necessary wilderness permits
- Check park regulations and current conditions
What Are the Best Seasons for Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Sequoia National Park?
The optimal seasons for hut-to-hut hiking in Sequoia National Park are:
- Summer (June to August):
- Pros: Warm weather, long daylight hours, most trails open
-
Cons: Crowded, potential for afternoon thunderstorms
-
Early Fall (September to mid-October):
- Pros: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, beautiful fall colors
-
Cons: Shorter daylight hours, potential for early snow at higher elevations
-
Late Spring (May to early June):
- Pros: Wildflowers, waterfalls at peak flow
- Cons: Some trails may still have snow, higher water levels in streams
Season | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Summer | Warm weather, long days | Crowded, thunderstorms |
Early Fall | Cooler, fewer crowds | Shorter days, possible snow |
Late Spring | Wildflowers, waterfalls | Snow on trails, high water |
What Wildlife Might I Encounter During a Hut-to-Hut Hike?
During your Sequoia National Park hiking hut to hut adventure, you may encounter various wildlife species:
- Black bears
- Mule deer
- Marmots
- Pikas
- Various bird species (e.g., Clark’s nutcracker, Steller’s jay)
Remember to practice proper wildlife safety:
– Store food in bear-resistant containers
– Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife
– Never feed animals
How Can I Minimize My Environmental Impact While Hut-to-Hut Hiking?
Follow these Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty of Sequoia National Park for future generations of hikers.
Embarking on a Sequoia National Park hiking hut to hut adventure offers a unique blend of wilderness immersion and comfortable accommodations. By carefully planning your itinerary, obtaining the necessary permits, and preparing adequately, you’ll set yourself up for an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most stunning national parks.
References:
1. Visit Sequoia: Bearpaw High Sierra Camp
2. National Park Service: Wilderness Lodging
3. Sequoia Parks Conservancy: Pear Lake Winter Hut