Olancha Pass Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

This trail climbs to Olancha Pass in about 5 miles with 3,400 feet elevation gain. The ascent is steady but relentless with limited shade. The trail switchbacks once from the trailhead and reaches a barbed wire fence gate and the boundary to the South Sierra Wilderness. Views across Sage Flat abound. The next half mile is fairly straight as you head up a canyon. The trail then starts switchbacking more thoroughly to quickly gain elevation on the northern side of the canyon. Views towards Owens Valley and Olancha in the distance are rewarding.

At about 4 miles, the trail crosses a saddle and continues further uphill. Round Mountain is on your left in the distance. Crest Olancha Pass at 5 miles with Honey Bee Trail to your left. Head gently downhill towards Summit Meadow which is typically covered in wildflowers and enter shaded pine forest. If you are turning south on the PCT: Walker Pass to Crabtree Meadow (near Mt Whitney), you can take a shortcut following Olancha Pass - PCT South about 0.4 miles earlier. Otherwise, reach the PCT at 6.6 miles.