Getting Oriented
Sherman Pass Road, signed Forest Route 22S05, sits squarely on Sequoia NF's Kern River Ranger District. The west end ties into Mountain 99 (the Kern River Highway) at Johnsondale Bridge, north of Kernville. The east end ties into Kennedy Meadows Road, which descends to US-395 in the Owens Valley. The road's high point at Sherman Pass (9,200 ft) sits between the Kern Plateau and the Domeland Wilderness.
Trail Overview
Thirty-five miles point-to-point, paved throughout. The west side climbs sharply up Bald Mountain and Sherman Peak's flanks, with switchbacks and overlooks across the Kern River drainage. The pass itself is open to the Sherman Pass Vista, a USFS-developed turnout with interpretive panels. The east descent drops gradually through Jeffrey pine to Kennedy Meadows, the southernmost long mile of the Pacific Crest Trail before it climbs into the High Sierra.
Points of Interest
- Sherman Pass Vista. USFS-developed turnout at the 9,200-foot pass with views east across the Kern Plateau and west to the Domeland Wilderness.
- Bald Mountain Lookout. Staffed fire lookout reached by a short spur; open to visitors during operating hours.
- Kennedy Meadows. Pacific Crest Trail resupply point and ranching community. Kennedy Meadows General Store is the only stop on the eastern descent.
- Domeland Wilderness. Designated wilderness south of the road, known for granite domes and bouldering.
- Black Rock Recreation Area. USFS-developed picnic area and trailhead off the western descent.
- Trout Meadow. USFS dispersed camping area on the road's western half.
Where to Camp
Sherman Pass has several USFS-developed campgrounds along the route: Troy Meadow, Fish Creek, and Horse Meadow. All have vault toilets and primitive sites; most are first-come, first-served. Kennedy Meadows Campground (USFS-developed) sits at the eastern end. Dispersed camping is allowed on Sequoia NF land off the main road with the standard 14-day stay limit, and the corridor has many designated sites along the side spurs.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Run east-to-west in early summer if you want to see the Sierra Crest snowfields close up.
- Plan around the season. The pass closes from November through May most years; the road typically opens by Memorial Day.
- Pacific Crest Trail hikers come through Kennedy Meadows in May and June. The general store is a hub.
- No fuel between Kernville and US-395. Carry extra fuel for the full Sierra crossing.
- Cell service drops fast at the pass. Carry an offline map.
- The Kern River Ranger District (760-376-3781) handles current conditions and seasonal closures.
