Free, Ranger-guided Snowshoe WalksSnowshoe walks are anticipated to begin mid-January and will end as snow conditions deteriorate. If snow conditions are poor, rangers may offer a guided hike instead of a snowshoe walk. For these hikes, we recommend traction devices (cleats) for your boots. Exploring on Your OwnMany trails are suitable for snowshoeing when there's enough snow. Rent snowshoes at Grant Grove Market, or bring your own. Purchase a map of ski trails at any visitor center and look for reflective markers on trees that show popular paths. When snowshoeing, stay clear of ski tracks. Check the park newspaper's winter safety tips. Cross-country SkiingIf there is sufficient snow, many areas of the park may be accessed by skis. Both Giant Forest and Grant Grove offer ski trails through sequoia groves. Purchase a map of ski trails online or at any visitor center. Please avoid skiing in residential areas, plowed roads, and other areas as signed. Overnight Ski and Snowshoe TripsFor well-prepared and skilled winter travelers, the challenges of exploring park wilderness lands in winter can lead to a rewarding experience. Be familiar with ways to stay safe in cold or snowy weather conditions; be prepared for emergencies, and remember that weather in these mountains can change suddenly. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight trips away from designated campgrounds. Whether you stay at Pear Lake Winter Hut or create your own campsite, enjoy your adventure and be safe. Pear Lake Winter HutSequoia Parks Conservancy is working with the National Park Service to reopen the Pear Lake Winter Hut for the 2023/2024 season after it had been closed in recent winters due to impacts from the KNP Complex Wildfire and the COVID-19 pandemic. It will be open for overnight reservations from December to April. Detailed information regarding reservations, fees, and regulations will be available on Sequoia Parks Conservancy's website in October, with reservations set to begin in November Pear Lake Winter Hut in Sequoia National Park is managed by the Sequoia Parks Conservancy and is open for use by the general public from mid-December through April. It is located 3/8 of a mile north of Pear Lake at 9,200 feet (2804 meters) and is reached by ascending a steep six miles of trail from Wolverton Meadow (7,200 feet). This advanced level ski/snowshoe trail offers a chance to explore the beautiful wilderness of the Sierra Nevada mountains in winter. The hut sleeps 10 people and is heated by a wood pellet stove (pellets provided). Advance reservations are required. The Sequoia Parks Conservancy offers reservations and detailed information about Pear Lake Winter Hut. |
Last updated: December 5, 2023