The air is thin, your legs are burning, and every step forward feels like a small victory against gravity. Ahead of you, a seemingly endless series of switchbacks is carved into a sheer granite face, a zigzagging path to the sky. This is the final approach to Forester Pass, the highest point on the entire Pacific Crest Trail at 13,120 feet. For anyone hiking the PCT-JMT over Forester Pass, this moment is a culmination of miles, effort, and anticipation. It’s a formidable challenge, but the reward is a feeling of accomplishment that is as vast as the view from the top.
This trail report comes from the perspective of someone who has stood on that summit, looking back at the Kings-Kern Divide and forward into the expanse of the High Sierra. The experience of Hiking the PCT-JMT over Forester Pass: A Trail Report is more than just checking off a high point; it’s about navigating a legendary section of trail that tests your mettle and rewards you with some of the most stunning alpine scenery North America has to offer. Whether you’re a northbound PCT thru-hiker or a JMT purist, crossing this pass is a defining moment of the journey.
Preparing for the Ascent: The Approach from the South
Your experience on Forester Pass begins long before you set foot on the famous switchbacks. Coming from the south on the John Muir Trail, you’ll likely be camping in the vicinity of Tyndall Creek or the nearby tarns. This is your launching pad. It’s crucial to get an early start—I’m talking about being on the trail by first light. This gives you the best chance to cross the pass before the typical afternoon thunderstorms roll in, which can bring lightning and dangerous conditions to the exposed terrain above treeline.
The trail from this side is a steady, persistent climb. You’ll pass through the last stunted trees and enter a world of rock, sky, and crystal-clear streams. As you gain elevation, the scale of the landscape becomes almost overwhelming. The sight of the pass itself, a distinct notch in the jagged ridge, can feel both inspiring and intimidating. The path is well-graded but relentless, so remember to pace yourself, take frequent short breaks, and keep hydrating. The air is dry, and it’s easy to become dehydrated without noticing.
Conquering the Infamous Switchbacks
And then, you reach them. The switchbacks. This is the section you’ve likely seen in photographs—a masterful piece of trail engineering that clings to the side of the mountain. The path is narrow but secure, with a solid surface underfoot. The key here is to find a rhythm. Don’t look up at how far you have to go; just focus on the next five steps. Then the next five after that.
During my crossing, a light dusting of snow from the previous night made for a slightly more cautious climb, but even in perfect summer conditions, it demands respect. If you have a fear of heights, this section will test it. The exposure is very real, but the trail is wide enough to feel safe if you take your time. The most important piece of advice is to use trekking poles. They provide critical stability and an extra point of contact, taking tremendous strain off your knees and helping you maintain balance, especially if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
Hiking the PCT-JMT over Forester Pass: A Trail Report from the Summit
Reaching the summit is a moment you won’t soon forget. The border between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is marked by a simple sign, but the real monument is the 360-degree view. To the south, you can trace your path back through the canyon of the Kern River. To the north, a whole new world opens up, a breathtaking vista of sharp peaks and deep valleys that represents the next chapter of your hike.
The summit is often windy and cold, even on a sunny day. You’ll want to take your photos, have a snack, and add a layer, but don’t linger too long. Your work isn’t done. The descent is a different kind of challenge, requiring careful foot placement and controlled movement to protect your knees. The north side of the pass often holds snowfields well into the summer, so be prepared to cross them. An ice axe and knowing how to self-arrest are essential skills for early-season hikers.
Finding Your Feet on the Descent
The north side descent begins with a series of tight, rocky switchbacks. The trail here can be a bit looser, so watch your step. As you drop down, you’ll be greeted by the headwaters of Bubbs Creek, a welcome sight that signals the beginning of a long, beautiful descent into forested terrain. The first reliable water source on this side is a wonderful place to take a longer break, filter water, and let the adrenaline from the pass settle.
Your goal for the day might be a campsite near Vidette Meadow or further down the canyon. Wherever you stop, you’ll do so with the profound satisfaction of having conquered the highest pass on the trail. The community feeling among hikers at camp that night is palpable, a shared sense of having accomplished something significant together.
Essential Tips for a Successful Crossing
To make your experience over Forester Pass a positive one, a little preparation goes a long way. First, acclimatize properly. Spend at least two nights at high elevation (above 10,000 feet) before attempting the pass to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Second, check recent trail conditions with the park service or a trail association. Knowing the status of snow and stream crossings is vital for safety.
Your gear can make or break the day. Sturdy, broken-in boots are non-negotiable. Carry more water than you think you’ll need and have a way to treat it. The sun is intense at that altitude, so sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are your best friends. And finally, pack layers—a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof/windproof shell will allow you to adapt to the pass’s notoriously fickle weather.
Crossing Forester Pass is more than a physical feat; it’s a mental and emotional journey that encapsulates the spirit of the Sierra. The challenge of the climb, the awe-inspiring summit, and the camaraderie on the trail create a memory that stays with you long after your boots have dried. It’s a demanding day, but with the right preparation and mindset, it becomes one of the most rewarding experiences you can have on two feet.