One of the most accessible California 13ers, Cirque Peak delivers big mountain views without the technical climbing found on many neighboring summits. Starting from Horseshoe Meadows at nearly 10,000 feet, hikers follow a combination of trail and cross-country terrain to a broad summit overlooking the Cottonwood Lakes Basin, Mount Langley, the Great Western Divide, and the vast backcountry of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Because the trailhead starts so high, Cirque Peak is often considered one of the best introductory peak-bagging objectives in the Eastern Sierra. While the route is non-technical, hikers should still be prepared for altitude, rapidly changing weather, and travel above 12,000 feet.
Trail Beta
| Town | Lone Pine |
| Trailhead | Horseshoe Meadows |
| Route | Cottonwood Lakes Trail |
| Mileage | 20 |
| Elevation Start | 10,000′ |
| Elevation Gain | 2,900′ |
| High Point | 12,900′ |
| Type | In & Out |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging |
| Water | Seasonal |
| Permit | Overnight Trips Only |
| Land Manager | Inyo National Forest |
Disclaimer: The information provided by AWE is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional outdoor, medical, safety, or navigation advice. Trail conditions, weather, road access, water availability, permit requirements, and other factors can change at any time. Always do your own research, check current conditions, carry appropriate gear, know your limits, and make decisions based on your experience and the conditions you encounter. Recreate responsibly, follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife and cultural resources, and leave every place better than you found it.
