Owens Peak via Pacific Crest Trail

Owens Peak via The Pacific Crest Trail is a 20-mile out-and-back route to the summit of Owens Peak. This route begins from the Walker Pass Campground located west of Ridgecrest, CA. It features expansive views along a well-graded singletrack trail leading up to a short scramble to reach the summit. This route requires no ropes and is fairly easy to navigate, however, due to the brief off trail section this route is recommended for experienced hikers who are comfortable with off-trail scrambling. This route features an area that is excellent for camping, backpacking, hiking and trail running. Starting from the Walker Pass Trailhead, follow the Pacific Crest Trail north for 9.3 miles. Along the way you will cross Highway 178, pass by Morris Peak and Jenkins Peak. At about 9.3 miles in, you will reach a saddle in between Jenkins Peak and Owens Peak. This is where you begin the short climb to the peak.From the saddle, there may be a faint trail and cairns to help guide you. Do not rely on this, however, it is advisable to bring maps and familiarize yourself with the route in advance. From the saddle, the route ascends Owens Peak's southwest ridge, leaving the Pacific Crest Trail behind. Turn around and follow your footsteps back down to the saddle and follow the Pacific Crest Trail southbound back to the starting point. Owens Peak rises to around 8,457 feet above sea level and is considered the highest peak in the southern Sierra Nevada. The area features beautiful views of rugged, mountainous terrain from the Sierra Nevada to the west and over the Owens Valley to the east. WALKER PASS CAMPGROUND INFORMATION: https://www.blm.gov/visit/walker-pass-campgroundOWENS PEAK WILDERNESS INFORMATIONBureau of Land Management:https://www.blm.gov/visit/owens-peak-wilderness-short-canyon, 1-(661) 391-6000Ridgecrest Field Office: 1-(760) 384-5400