Southern Seki Loop

The Southern Seki Loop is a 94.8-mile backpacking loop through Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks. There is a mix of well-maintained trails and more remote and rugged ones in this challenging expedition. The Southern Seki Loop offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in the Sierra Nevada. It features high alpine lakes, granite passes, lush meadows, springtime wildflowers, rushing rivers, and Kern Hot Springs! On this trip, you'll experience some of the most iconic trails in the area, including the Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, and High Sierra Trail, as well as outstanding camping opportunities with expansive views. The route is best suited for experienced backpackers who are comfortable navigating short sections of unmaintained trails and can carry food for at least seven days. Depending on your preferences, it is possible to break up the loop to extend or shorten the distance and it can be completed in either way. The below itinerary is intended to be used as an example for you to build on. Always check with the ranger station to find out more about trail conditions and camping regulations before heading out. TRAILS USEDBubbs Creek Trail - Pacific Crest Trail - High Sierra Trail - Elizabeth Pass Trail - Bubbs Creek TrailSAMPLE 6 DAY BACKPACKING ITINERARYDay 1: Roads End - Junction Meadow: 10.2 Day 2: Junction Meadow - Tyndall Creek:15.8Day 3: Tyndall Creek - Kern Hot Springs: 14Day 4: Kern Hot Springs - Precipice Lake: 18DAy 5: Precipice Lake - Ranger Meadow: 17Day 6: Ranger Meadow - North Side of Avalanche Pass: 13Day 7: North Side of Avalanche Pass - Roads End : 6.8RIVER CROSSINGS AND TRAIL CONDITIONS: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/trailcond.htm. PERMITS AND CAMPINGWilderness permits are required for overnight camping in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Fees and regulations may vary depending on the time of year (quota season vs. non-quota season).For updated information about wilderness permits please visit: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm. To make a permit reservation please visit www.recreation.gov.