Silver Pass Loop
Edison Lake, Graveyard Lakes Basin, and Lake of the Lone Indian
The Silver Divide offers a stunning backdrop for a High Sierra backpacking trip. Starting at Edison Lake, this loop crosses two scenic passes, Goodale Pass and Silver Pass, with sweeping views in every direction. The route follows a section of the John Muir Trail, winding past clear creeks, alpine lakes, and classic Sierra scenery.
Duration: 7 nights
Distance: 28 miles plus day hikes
Best Time: July–Sept.
Submitted by
GSSD Backpacking Trainers
Created
January 2020
Starting Trailhead: Mono Creek
Ending Trailhead: Mono Creek
Day 1
Drive to the High Sierra Ranger Station in Prather to pick-up your wilderness permit.
Continue on to Edison Lake and set-up camp at Mushroom City Campground at Vermilion Valley Resort.
Day 2
Head to the Mono Creek Trailhead and hike east on the High Sierra Pack Station Trail to the Goodale Pass Trail junction. (1 mile)
Turn left and head east on Goodale Pass Trail to the junction for Graveyard Lakes in Upper Graveyard Meadow. (5.75 miles)
Turn left and set-up camp at Graveyard Lakes. (1 mile)
Day 3
Day hike Graveyard Lakes Basin. If your group has good off-trail navigating skills, consider Silver Fox Pass.
Day 4
Head out of the basin the way you came and rejoin Goodale Pass Trail. (1 mile)
Turn left and head north on Goodale Pass Trail to Minnow Creek Trail junction. (4 miles)
Turn left and head west on the Minnow Creek Trail to the Wilber May Lake Trail junction. (2 miles)
Turn left and head south on Wilber May Lake Trail and set-up camp at Wilber May Lake. (.5 miles)
Day 5
Head back the way you came — north on Wilber May Lake Trail — to the Minnow Creek Trail junction. (.5 miles)
Turn right and head east on the Minnow Creek Trail and set-up camp at Lake of the Lone Indian. (1.5 miles)
For the best campsites, look to the west side of the lake, the inlet/outlet area to the north, or the bluff just west of the lake along the trail, which offers spectacular views.
Day 6
Continue south on Minnow Creek Trail to the Goodale Pass Trail junction. (.25 miles)
Turn left and head east to the John Muir Trail junction. (.5 miles)
Turn right and head south on the John Muir Trail. Set-up camp between Pocket and Quail Meadows. (3 miles)
Day 7
Day hike to Mott Lake.
Day 8
Head south on the John Muir Trail to the High Sierra Pack Station Trail junction. (1 mile)
Turn right and head west on the High Sierra Pack Station Trail to the trailhead. (6 miles)
Head to Mono Hot Springs Resort for showers and drive home.
Itinerary Options
To avoid the 6-mile hike around Edison Lake back to the trailhead (a stretch many hikers find less scenic), take the ferry for a quick and easy return.
For an easy introduction to backcountry camping, High Sierra Pack Station can carry your gear into and out of Graveyard Lakes. Establish a base camp there and enjoy day hikes around the basin for as many days as you like, then hike out the way you came.
Key Risks
Critters: You’re in bear country. There are strict rules on storing scented items including the need for bear-proof containers. Know before you go and follow all instructions.
Altitude: Monitor participants for any adverse reactions.
Weather: Snow can linger in the mountain passes.
Water Crossings: The North Fork of Mono Creek can be hazardous to cross early in the season.
Road Conditions: Kaiser Pass Road is a narrow, winding one-lane mountain road. Use caution, take your time, and watch for other vehicles.
Permits Needed
Sierra National Forest Wilderness Permit
Resources
Sierra National Forest: Mono Creek Trailhead
Vermilion Valley Resort: Mushroom City Campground