Kaweah Basin is a hard-to-enter section of land due east of Mt. Whitney. A few years ago Pat, Vangie and Jerry circled the region and we were not aware of the basin (2015 Kaweah Loop).  Last year we tried to get in, but smoke changed the route and we did not make it into the basin (2020 Kaweah Fire Tour). So this year we parked a car at Shepards Pass Trailhead, hitched a ride with Jim to Horsehoe trailhead and did the loop. Scott made good on going to the top of the second highest peak, second only in height to Whitney, but a class 3 climb (above Pat/Jerry’s pay grade). To say the least, it was worth the time and planning. Kaweah Basin (especially the lakes at the bottom of the basin) were stunning! Campsites were stunning! We didn’t see any human for over 2 days – stunning! No bugs, great weather (no rain). Challenging ascents. What more could you ask for in a hike? Pat, Scott and Jerry.

Map on CalTopo: https://caltopo.com/m/JHVEE

Scott did a great job of documenting the trek (including VIDEOS!!): https://hikerscott.smugmug.com/Kaweah-Basin-Backpack-August-4-11-2021/ 

Here is the .gpx of the trek: https://jerrypierce.org/Files/2021-Kaweah-Full-Tour.GPX