Forester Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Forester Pass |
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The view south from Forester Pass
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| Elevation | 13,153 ft (4,009 m) |
| Traversed by | John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail |
| Location | Tulare County, California, United States |
| Range | Sierra Nevada |
| Coordinates | 36°41′39″N 118°22′19″W / 36.6941018°N 118.3720397°W |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Williamson |
Forester Pass is a famous mountain pass located high in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, United States. It sits on the border between Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. This pass connects two important water areas: Bubbs Creek and the Kern River.
At an elevation of 13,153 feet (about 4,009 meters), Forester Pass is the highest point along the entire Pacific Crest Trail. This long trail stretches from Mexico to Canada.
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Forester Pass: A High Mountain Adventure
Forester Pass is a challenging but rewarding part of many mountain adventures. It offers incredible views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada wilderness. Hikers on the John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail must cross this pass.
What Makes Forester Pass Special?
This pass is known for its impressive height and the stunning scenery around it. It's a key crossing point for hikers exploring the high Sierra. The trail leading to and from the pass is well-maintained but steep.
History and Naming
Forester Pass was first discovered by a group of workers from the United States Forest Service. Because of their discovery, the pass was named in their honor. This happened many years ago when people were exploring and mapping the Sierra Nevada.
Building the Trail
Building trails through high mountain passes like Forester Pass was a very difficult job. In 1930, workers were busy constructing the trail over the pass. It was a tough and dangerous task, often involving blasting through rock.
During this construction, some workers faced serious challenges. A young man named Donald Downs, who was 18, was involved in an accident. He later passed away from complications. A special plaque is placed on the southern side of the pass to remember him and the hard work of all the trail builders. Hikers walking north can easily see this memorial.
