California · Hiking

Lion Meadow

11.0 mi
round trip
3,058 ft
climb
8,240 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Jun–Oct
best months

Is Lion Meadow open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Sequoia National Forest. It doesn't name Lion Meadow, so check the source for the area it covers (2 listed).

As of · Source: USFS · Sequoia National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Lion Meadow is a hard hike in the Kern River Ranger District of Sequoia National Forest in California. It is an out-and-back route of about 11 miles, with a high point of 8,240 feet and an elevation gain of about 3,058 feet. The trail sits on national forest land managed by the Forest Service. The route is natural-surface and carries horses, which makes it a practical choice for riders. Bikes are not allowed. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from the Lodgepole weather station, about 41 miles away, show July and August highs around 76°F with only a couple of wet days a month, while winter brings highs in the upper 30s and regular snow days. The hike starts close to several other outings. Beach Trail and Beach Meadow are each within half a mile, Bonita Flat is about half a mile away, and Troy Meadow Campground is about 5 miles off.

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.

  • Best time to go · Jun–Oct

    Best time to visit Lion Meadow

    Best months: June–October. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      39° / 17°

      9 wet · 8 snow

    2. Feb

      41° / 18°

      10 wet · 8 snow

    3. Mar

      45° / 22°

      10 wet · 8 snow

    4. Apr

      50° / 26°

      8 wet · 5 snow

    5. May

      58° / 33°

      5 wet · 2 snow

    6. Jun

      68° / 40°

      3 wet

    7. Jul

      76° / 46°

      2 wet

    8. Aug

      76° / 44°

      2 wet

    9. Sep

      70° / 39°

      2 wet

    10. Oct

      59° / 31°

      4 wet · 1 snow

    11. Nov

      47° / 23°

      6 wet · 4 snow

    12. Dec

      37° / 17°

      8 wet · 6 snow

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Lodgepole, CA, 41.1 mi away at 6,735 ft. The station sits about 1,500 ft lower than this place, so expect it a little cooler here. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.

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