New Army Pass lies at the end of Cottonwood Lakes Trail, 7.5 miles from Horseshoe Meadow. The pass provides off-trail ascents to two nearby summits, Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. A trail down the northwest side of the pass ventures into Sequoia National Park with access to countless backcountry destinations including Lower Soldier Lake, Sky Blue Lake, and Mount Pickering. Lower Soldier... Read more.

Lower Soldier Lake lies at 10,800 feet on the eastern edge of Sequoia National Park. This is a favored place for backpackers to bed down, and for good reason. A host of trails and off-trail targets make this a prime base camp. The nearest trailhead is Horseshoe Meadow in the Golden Trout Wilderness, which offers two routes to Lower Soldier Lake. About half a mile separates the start of the... Read more.

Cirque Peak can be reached from either Cottonwood Pass Trail or Cottonwood Lakes Trail. The mountain rises between the two, straddling the divide of the Golden Trout and John Muir Wildernesses. The summit boasts an excellent panorama with a good look at Mount Langley to the north, the Cottonwood Lakes to the east, and the sprawling Sierra to the west. By far the easiest approach to Cirque... Read more.

Old Cottonwood Creek Trail breaks from the popular Cottonwood Lakes Trail for a more secluded hike into Cottonwood Basin, visiting pristine meadows, alpine lakes, flowing creeks, and amber forests. The trail provides a lovely 8-mile day hike to South Fork Lake, with several options to extend to nearby lakes and peaks. Take Cottonwood Lakes Trail from Horseshoe Meadow as it runs downhill... Read more.

Rising to 14,042 feet, Mount Langley is less than five hundred feet shorter than Mount Whitney but receives far fewer visitors. While the lottery to get a permit for Mount Whitney can be challenging and competitive, Mount Langley's hikers can easily get a free permit on the day of their hike. The summit provides expansive views, solitude, and a deep feeling of accomplishment. At least... Read more.