Last updated: December 20, 2024
Thing to Do
Pear Lake Winter Trail
NPS Photo
The Pear Lake Trail is the most challenging of the marked ski trails in Sequoia National Park. The route climbs steeply through dense fir forest until it reaches the summit of “The Hump” (9500 feet). The trail then explores the barren glaciated headwaters of the Marble Fork of the Kaweah. The trail ends at Pear Lake Winter Hut, which is available for overnight use by advanced reservation only (559-565-4251). Wilderness permits are required for overnight travel into this area.
Safety: Because of the barren nature of the terrain, the uppermost portion of the route is not well marked. The route is not safe during and after major storms due to whiteout and avalanche hazards. The Watchtower Trail is closed in the winter due to extreme danger of falling. The Upper Portions of Tokopah Valley are prone to avalanches.
Safety: Because of the barren nature of the terrain, the uppermost portion of the route is not well marked. The route is not safe during and after major storms due to whiteout and avalanche hazards. The Watchtower Trail is closed in the winter due to extreme danger of falling. The Upper Portions of Tokopah Valley are prone to avalanches.
Trail Information
- Trailhead: Wolverton parking area
- Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km) one way, Wolverton to Pear Lake Winter Hut
- Difficulty: Hard
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,891 ft, 691 ft
- Approximate Round Trip: 6 – 8 hours
Details
Duration
6-8 Hours
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
Activity
Cross-Country Skiing
This trail is designated as a cross-country ski trail, but can also be used for snowshoeing. Due to the snowy and icy conditions on the trail, hiking without traction devices is not recommended.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Wolverton Parking Area
Begin at the Wolverton Parking Area.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Accessibility Information
There are accessible parking spots and accessible flush toilets available at the Wolverton parking lot.
Route Marker Information
Trails that are buried under snow are very difficult to follow, so it is best to stick to trails marked for winter travel. Ski trails - open to skiing, snowshoe, and hiking - are marked by different symbols nailed to trees along their routes.
The route marker for the Pear Lake winter trail is a yellow triangle.
Caution
Please do not snowshoe or walk directly on ski tracks. The tread of snowshoes (or boots) can create divots and ruin carefully laid ski tracks, creating hazards for skiers. Skiers/snowshoers going uphill yield to those going downhill. Fill in depressions in the snow after falling to reduce hazards to others. Visit our Skiing and Snowshoeing page for safety tips, guidance, and snowshoe ranger program information.
More on Winter Trails in the Parks
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Skiing and SnowshoeingSki and snowshoe trails offer a way to travel through Giant Forest and Grant Grove in winter.
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Winter ActivitiesLearn about other winter activities in the parks.
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General Grant Winter TrailsLearn what winter trails are available in the Grant Grove area.