- 1). Make reservations early if visiting any California national park, especially a seasonal location like Mineral King. Campsites go fast and lodging is also minimal in nearby Three Rivers. Many opt to stay in the Visalia area instead.
- 2). Leave recreation vehicles at home since the park only permits automobiles on the road. If you are towing an auto, there are places to park the RV’s for the day.
- 3). Fly into Los Angeles, California, at over 200 miles away. From Century Boulevard, you'll travel north on Interstate 405 toward Sacramento. In the San Fernando Valley Interstate 5 joins the 405 and continues out of the city, up over the Grapevine and splits near the town of Mettler. Leave 5 veering right on State Highway 99 and continue on toward Visalia. At Exit 96, take State Highway 198 toward Three Rivers, California, and Sequoia National Park. On the General’s Highway, north of Three Rivers, follow directional signs to the Mineral King Road.
- 4). Stop at Three Rivers prior to driving to Mineral King and stock up on necessary supplies. Whether visiting for the day or even longer, you should prepare with abundant food and water.
- 5). Take the Mineral King Road, making a right turn off the General’s Highway. Drive slow and cautiously on the 24-mile road. Prepare for faster traffic descending in elevation and animals suddenly darting in front.
- 6). Note that most trails in the Mineral King Area can be strenuous at this altitude, and that, with the exception of Timber Gap Trail, are all at least a 4 mile trip one way.
- 7). Stop at Atwell Mill and access the Atwell Mill Trailhead, the first opportunity to acclimate. The trail takes you through alpine forests and past amazing waterfalls. Hike to the East Fork Bridge and return to your vehicle.
- 8). Stop at the the Mineral King Ranger Station and inquire about trail conditions, inclement weather and bear sightings. Get a Mineral King Trail Map as well.
- 9). Continue driving west and look for directional signs to the Timber Gap Trailhead, which is on the left. This two2-mile hike one way allows you great views of the valley and the Sierra Nevada range.
- 10
Consider continuing further on the Timber Gap Trail and arrive at the Monarch Lakes, approximately another two miles. Though considered an easy hike by these standards, the general consensus for this 8-mile round trip trek is to start early. - 11
Hike the Mosquito Lakes and Eagle Lake Trails instead. Rather then a left turn at the Timber Gap Trailhead, turn right onto a spur route to access these trailheads. Both lakes are each roughly 11 miles round trip, sharing the same trail for 2 miles before they split. Again, start early. Note that the Mosquito Lakes trail continues past the first lake and on toward several upper lakes - 12
Opt instead to continue further on the main road to its end at the Franklin Lakes Trailhead. Another early start is required for this round trip of almost 11 miles. The lakes are located below the Great Western Divide. - 13
Opt instead to continue further on the main road to its end at the Franklin Lakes Trailhead. Another early start is required for this round trip of almost eleven miles. The lakes are located below the Great Western Divide.
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