National Geographic explorer and journalist Stephanie Pearson recently published the stunning new book, 100 Hikes of a Lifetime U.S.A., which chronicles the most scenic trails in the country alongside classic Nat Geo photography.
Featured routes range from legendary treks such as the Half Dome Trail in Yosemite and the cross-country American Discovery Trail, to lesser-known backcountry hikes like the strenuous Sierra High Route.
The latter is the first known “high route” in the United States, a type of hike that challenges even the most expert outdoorsmen to hone their wayfinding and endurance skills. But the reward is an unparalleled experience among California’s most scenic high-alpine terrain.
Hiking the Sierra High Route
According to Pearson, the Sierra High Route was developed by climber and historian Steve Roper, whose 1982 book, Timberline Country: The Sierra High Route, laid the groundwork for generations of ambitious hikers to take on the high route challenge.
More than half of the 195-mile trek is entirely off-trail, meaning hikers must rely on route descriptions, topographical maps, and navigational instruments like a compass and GPS. Most of it is situated between 9,500 and 11,500 feet of elevation.
The route parallels most of the famous 215-mile John Muir Trail to the east, which remains a highly rewarding alternative through the High Sierra (and which does have clear signage throughout).
But for those willing to take on the challenge, the Sierra High Route provides an unbelievable vantage point through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the John Muir Wilderness, and Yosemite.
“There’s a lot to be said for getting off the beaten path,” writes Pearson. “The signs of humanity diminish, there’s an expansiveness that doesn’t exist on a well-trodden
path, and the vistas from on high are like an endless series of Ansel Adams
photographs.”
Pearson recommends planning the hike, which can take 12-20 days, between July and September.
