Jennie Lake Out and Back

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Starting from Big Meadows Trailhead, this route winds through lodgepole and fir stands before gradually climbing over Poop Out Pass, where a scenic viewpoint overlooks Jennie Lakes Wilderness and Kings Canyon National Park. After a short descent, the trail leads to Jennie Lake, a beautiful alpine destination with designated campsites.

• Day Hikes: No permit or fee required, but a voluntary registration card is requested at trailheads in Sequoia NF.
• Backpacking/overnight Stays: Permits for Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks can be obtained through recreation.gov.
• Fires: Check fire restrictions before heading out.
• Trail Conditions: Some rocky, washed-out sections near Poop Out Pass, but the trail is mostly in good shape.
• Food Storage: No bear lockers at the trailhead—plan accordingly.

Starting at Big Meadows Trailhead, follow the Big Meadows Trail for about 1 mile. After passing Fox Meadow, you'll come to a trail junction; head south on the Jennie Lake Trail, which winds around Shell Mountain and leads you toward Poop Out Pass. The trail gradually gains elevation through mixed conifer forest, with occasional breaks in the trees offering views of Shell Mountain.

The toughest part of the hike is the climb up Poop Out Pass, but once you reach the top, the trail flattens briefly before descending toward Jennie Lake. There's a final short climb before reaching the lake, where you'll find clear alpine waters and plenty of campsites (19 sites with fire rings, mostly located on the north and west sides of Jennie Lake). Use established campsites only and make sure to camp at least 100 feet from the shoreline. Wilderness permits are required for camping.

At about 9,000 feet, Jennie Lake is a great spot for an overnight trip or a challenging day hike. For those looking to extend the adventure, continue about a mile east to JO Pass and the Sequoia National Park boundary. With several intersecting trails, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and expand your route.

This area features a mix of lodgepole pines, white fir, and red fir trees, as well as alpine wildflowers like lupines and columbines during the warmer months. Wildlife in the area includes mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions, though sightings are rare. Birdwatchers may spot species such as the Clark's nutcracker, pine grosbeak, and various hawks soaring above the mountain slopes.