01
Classic first stop
Relief Reservoir via Kennedy Meadows
Trailhead At Kennedy Meadows Off Highway 108 • Alpine Lake Day-Hike With Steady Climb • Best For First-Time Visitors
A straightforward climb along Summit Creek to a turquoise reservoir tucked beneath high granite walls.
From the Kennedy Meadows trailhead, this well-traveled path follows the creek past cabins and pack stock before committing to a series of switchbacks. The payoff is Relief Reservoir, where granite cliffs drop straight into deep blue water and there are plenty of spots to sit, snack, and take in the views. Expect a moderate workout, some rocky tread, and a classic introduction to the area’s terrain.
02
Big-scenery day mission
Kennedy Lake Trail
Backcountry Above Kennedy Meadows • Long Valley-And-Lake Out-And-Back • Top Pick For Strong Day-Hikers
Follow a classic pack-train route through a deep canyon to a broad meadow lake ringed by peaks.
The Kennedy Lake Trail leaves the same busy trailhead but quickly settles into a quieter canyon, with the creek below and tall walls rising on both sides. The final meadows around the lake feel wide open and remote, with plenty of room to wander and watch the light change on the surrounding summits. Plan on a full day, earlier start, and legs ready for a longer push, or turn it into an easygoing overnight.
03
Laid-back option
Deadman Creek Trail to Deadman Campground
Down-Canyon From Kennedy Meadows • Shaded Creekside Walk • Most Kid-Friendly Choice
An easier ramble that trades big climbs for forest shade, creek access, and a mellow out-and-back feel.
Starting near Kennedy Meadows, this route tracks along Deadman Creek with enough gentle ups and downs to feel like a real hike without overwhelming newer hikers. Frequent access to the water, pockets of pine shade, and open stretches of granite make it a good pick on warmer days. Families often hike as far as attention spans allow, then turn around, so the distance is easy to tailor to your group.
04
High-country push
Sheep Camp via Relief Reservoir
Above Relief Reservoir In Emigrant Wilderness • Full-Day High-Country Granite Trek • Best For Experienced Hikers
Push past Relief Reservoir into open granite country with big views, scattered pines, and a real sense of distance from the road.
Beyond Relief Reservoir the trail thins out, the crowds fall away, and the landscape opens into classic high Sierra slabs and pockets of dwarf pine. The climb toward Sheep Camp is steady and feels wild, with long views back down-canyon and, in season, small streams trickling across the granite. It is a rewarding option for hikers who already know Relief Reservoir and want something quieter and more committing without turning it into a full backpacking trip.
05
Overnight standout
Emigrant Lake via Kennedy Meadows
Deep In Emigrant Wilderness • Classic Backpack To High Alpine Lake • Best Overnight From Kennedy Meadows
A rewarding multi-day out-and-back into polished granite basins and one of the prettiest lakes in the range.
Leaving Kennedy Meadows, this route strings together forested stretches, wide meadows, and broken granite ridges on the way to Emigrant Lake’s stark basin. The lake itself sits in a bowl of pale rock and dark water that feels much farther from the road than the mileage suggests, making it a favorite base for fishing, wandering, or quiet camp nights. It is best tackled as a one- or two-night trip by hikers comfortable with Sierra elevation, changing weather, and standard wilderness logistics.