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 Reporter |
Summary: This is an awe-inspiring hike. If the scenery along the first stretch of the High Sierra trail wasn't enough, this section is even more breath-taking. The High Sierra trail to Hamilton Lakes takes you right into the Great Western Divide. You get close up views of the craggy Sierra peaks and icy glaciers. You can take a dip in a chilly, but wonderfully refreshing alpine glacial lake, and camp along its shores. There is even a bear box for food storage. The hike from Bearpaw Meadow is a relatively moderate one, sure you have some climbing, and if you do it in the middle of the day, it will be hot. But, that will make the lake all the more refreshing once you get there. If you camp before Bearpaw, add some there and back miles to your trip, 2 from Buck, and 4 from Ninemile, which makes this trip strenuous, but worth every step. If Valhalla is where the gods live, then I am truly at home in the High Sierra. Trailhead: In order to get to the lake, you must camp along the High Sierra Trail. The trail begins at Crescent Meadow, 50 miles East of Visalia on the 198 in Sequoia NP. Hamilton Lakes is 17 miles from the Crescent meadow parking area, while it is possible to hike 32 miles in a day, I wouldn't suggest trying it. See my hike High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow for more information. Camping along the trail includes four sites with bear boxes - Mehrten Creek, Ninemile Creek, Buck Creek, and Bearpaw Meadow. There is also camping at Hamilton Lake (highly recommended) you need a wilderness permit to camp at any of these campsites - first come, first serve from Lodgepole, or you can reserve from the phone number below (recommended for weekend trips.) (Lat:36.56222 Lon:-118.57578) Trail Guides for Sequoia NP - Bearpaw Meadow to Hamilton Lakes: Hiking Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks by Laurel Scheidt (Falcon) California Hiking by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park (559) 565-3341 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by John on 12/20/2009 What a great hike! It was quite warm during the day in August, but the fishing was still great and the views absolutely incredible. We camped at Hamilton Lakes one night and had a great trip! Don't miss this lovely stretch of trail!!!
Reviewed by AL on 10/27/2007 Ive been all over that neck of the woods. By far the prettiest setting I have ever seen, was the second lake at Hamilton. Ive been over the top and into th 9 Lake Basin, as well as to Tamarack and lower bear paw meadows. What a place. 
Reviewed by JMM on 2/26/2006 great hike we awasome views. Cross the falls early in the day in early summer or spring as the water rises and crates a challenge.
Reviewed by Saskia on 8/27/2005 I absolutely love Hamilton Lakes - my favorite trail and lake in Sequoia National Park
Reviewed by scott on 10/27/2003 This 4 day hike was a personal best because of the fishing with the super duper. 30 fish in less than 5 hours. Bears, Pheasants, deer, lizards, cliffs, bridges, freeze dried food, camp fires, etc. This hike rocks. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Tulare County Hiking, Tulare County Trails, Tulare County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||