Jennie Lakes & Monarch Wilderness -
Sequoia National Forest

At a Glance 

The Monarch Wilderness offers over 30 miles of trails with sweeping views of Kings Canyon and some classic high Sierra backcountry, as well as descents into the canyon itself. With dramatic elevation changes the vegetation ranges from chaparral and sub-alpine to alpine - covering about every species of tree known in this part of the Sierra, and then transforming into pure granite above the treeline. The remote Monarch Wilderness offers the chance to walk alone among  Giant Sequoias and hike up to the isolated and wild Grizzly Lakes area. Above Upper Grizzly Lake you can scramble up the granite and access  the spectacular Monarch Divide. Bring your camera! 

NOTE: Parts of this wilderness area were heavily affected by the 2015 Rough Fire and have only 

recently been reopened to the public, while others remain closed. Please exercise caution when using the newly re-opened trails, particularly looking out for hazardous and burned trees and increased exposure to the elements.  

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Grizzly Lake 

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In the Monarch Wilderness, there is only one main lake, Grizzly Lake, which offers beautiful views, access to the sublime heights of the Monarch Divide and a much more remote camping experience. Only the most adventurous have seen Grizzly Lake! 

The Boulder Creek drainage cuts through parts of the southern section of the Monarch and is the main water source in that area. But many creeks in the Monarch often run dry in the hot summer months. 

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