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Hiking Near Kennedy Meadows, California

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Trail of 100 Giants

Hike Route

Trail of 100 Giants

Family Friendly
easy
1.26 mi
+126 ft
Isabella Peak Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Isabella Peak Out-and-Back

Family Friendly
moderate
2.16 mi
+618 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Domeland Wilderness via Pacific Crest Trail

Hike Route

Domeland Wilderness via Pacific Crest Trail

Dogs Allowed
strenuous
11.87 mi
+1,731 ft
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section G Walker Pass to Crabtree Meadows

Hike Route

Pacific Crest Trail: California Section G Walker Pass to Crabtree Meadows

Views
extreme
112.58 mi
+24,228 ft
Wildrose Trail (37E01) via Kennedy Meadows

Hike Route

Wildrose Trail (37E01) via Kennedy Meadows

Wildflowers
strenuous
18.57 mi
+3,509 ft
Woodpecker Trail

Hike Route

Woodpecker Trail

extreme
14.72 mi
+2,963 ft
Heart of the Domelands

Hike Route

Heart of the Domelands

Commonly Backpacked
strenuous
22.3 mi
+4,032 ft
Manter Meadow Hike

Hike Route

Manter Meadow Hike

Views
extreme
17.04 mi
+2,461 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Manter Meadow Loop

Hike Route

Manter Meadow Loop

Commonly Backpacked
strenuous
9.47 mi
+1,572 ft
Owens Peak via Pacific Crest Trail

Hike Route

Owens Peak via Pacific Crest Trail

Views
strenuous
9.29 mi
+2,930 ft
The Needles Lookout

Hike Route

The Needles Lookout

Views
moderate
9.74 mi
+2,395 ft
Cirque Peak

Hike Route

Cirque Peak

Views
strenuous
7.85 mi
+3,255 ft
Cirque Lake

Hike Route

Cirque Lake

Lake
strenuous
9.31 mi
+1,440 ft
Cirque Lake via South Fork Cottonwood Creek

Hike Route

Cirque Lake via South Fork Cottonwood Creek

Commonly Backpacked
strenuous
9.92 mi
+1,503 ft