Alta Peak and Pear Lake Trailhead — Attraction in Exeter

Alta Peak is more scenic trail in the park. It's almost 15-mile (24 km) round-trip trail that goes by Panther Gap and Mehrten Meadow on its way to the summit of Alta Peak at 11,276 feet (3400 meters), with spectacular views of Alta Peak towers over the dramatic Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, with expansive views of the Tablelands to the north and the Great Western Divide to the east. It can be challenging to come from sea level to 11,200 feet (3400 meters) on the same day, with the last almost 4,000 feet (1200 meters) walking the mountain trail, but the view is well worth the effort. Glorious golden light and watch the sky change color at the peak paired with hiking back in the dark...

Did this hike in early april of 2018. It was mind blowing! It starts out in the edge of the giant forest and keeps going literally straight up for miles. I got lost at the top near alta peak because of the snow being so deep! This is one of the most extreme hikes ive ever done. Once we got a mile in or so we didnt see anyone for 6+ hours it was so beautiful and peaceful and felt great! It gets a bit chilly at the top and you really move up through the different layers of mountain and forest. This is one amazing place and I cannot wait...

June 19, 2025 No snow in the last section, but there are mosquitoes throughout other than that its a good hike.

It was a very pleasant morning as we began our hike around 7:40 AM. The initial few miles offered a gentle elevation gain through shaded forest, making for a comfortable start. Around mile 4 or 5, the trail began to steepen gradually. The final half to one mile was the steepest stretch, and the high elevation (11,208 ft) made the ascent feel slower at times. Overall, it was a rewarding and...