Monache Meadows is surrounded by wilderness.
Beautiful scenic valley surrounded by wilderness areas. Road follows and crosses South Fork of Kern River. Great camp spots along route and at the end. Explore, camp, fish and relax along river. Remote, secluded area. Open to green-sticker vehicles, but you must stay on existing routes at all times.
(760) 876-6200.Most of the trail is in Inyo N.F., Mount Whitney Ranger District.
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Provide an Update07/08/2025
Submitted by Tom
Beautiful and remote trail – really enjoyed the trip. Road is likely more difficult than when first reviewed – some sections of the trail are more blue than green – steep rocky, rutted and narrow on the way into the meadow. Still suitable for capable stock SUVs (my vehicle is a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk). The meadow itself is as described – soft sand – some bouncy whoop-de-dos. Side trails include some fun water crossings and old log cabins. Views of Monache Mountain and the backside of Olancha Peak are very beautiful. Many areas suitable for dispersed camping – spent 3 days at a site north of Monache Meadow. Beautiful area. I haven’t found a lot of information about the water quality on-line, however, there are some large cattle herds in the area, and it appears visually that the water quality may have been impacted – caution in water use, both swimming and consuming, seems advisable. Saw a few deer, interesting birds and small mammals. Still a great trail (my guide is the CA 2014 edition)
My first trip to Monache Meadows was Labor Day weekend of 1964. It was not an easy trail in those...See More
