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Sawmill Pass Trail
From Hwy. 395, 13 ½ miles south of Big Pine, or 12 ½ miles north of Independence, take the Aberdeen turnoff, go left for 3 miles to Division Creek road, go right and continue on past the power house to reach the trailhead.
This is an extremely strenuous, dry, sandy, steep trail that provides access to the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails. Carry plenty of extra water.
Begin your hike early to avoid the heat. Start out on a sandy, sage brush-lined trail that basically starts on the valley floor. Reach a junction with a stock use trail coming in from the south at 2 miles. Enter into the John Muir Wilderness at 3 ½ miles after more sandy switchbacks, and get a peek into rugged Sawmill Canyon. Descend to hike along the creek, rejoicing in the shade of Aspen and Pines.
Climb steadily to reach Sawmill Meadow at just under 6 miles. The trail follows the creek for a short while before steep switchbacks bring you to Mule Lake, a petite beauty high in the canyon. Several creek crossings lead to Sawmill Lake, good camping and fishing can be found here. The trail continues through a sparse forest, passing a small lake before climbing steadily towards the pass.
An easy descent brings you to the beautiful Woods Lake Basin, dotted with meadows, lakes, and good campsites. Reach the junction with the John Muir Trail / Pacific Crest Trail at 13.8 miles.
Maps -
John Muir Wilderness - Topo
Mt. Pinchot - 15 minute quad. - Topo
Kings Canyon High Country - 15 minute - Topo
Sequoia / Kings National Park - 15 minute - Topo
Inyo National Forest - 60 minute
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