High altitude hike to Matlock Lake via the Kearsarge Pass in the Eastern Sierra

The scenic hike to Kearsarge Pass (11,823-ft.) travels by five shimmering lakes and features great views of the rugged crags and peaks along the east side of the Sierra Crest in California's Eastern Sierra.
Kearsarge Pass Trail is one of the shortest ways to connect Inyo National Forest to Kings Canyon National Park in the Sierra Nevada Range. This trail gains about 2,660 feet in elevation. The mountain views along the trail are spectacular and the camping options on the first half of the route are plentiful. Kearsarge Pass itself is the gateway to many peaks, lakes, rock pinnacles and a rock dome in the back country. In addition, this pass is an excellent way to connect with the famous and much sought after John Muir and Pacific Crest Trail. Many parties traveling on the Pacific Crest Trail use the Keasarge Pass to Onion Valley Trail for resupplying and resting before they continue on their journey.
From the Pass you get a breathtaking view of the peaks and lakes on the west side. The most prominent feature of the west side are the Kearsarge Pinnacles and Kearsarge Lakes directly to the southwest. Beyond Kearsarge Pinnacles, you will make out many more peaks such as West Vidette and East Vidette. You will get a clear view of Mount Bago and Charlotte Dome to the west and Mount Rixford to the northwest.
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