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Kennedy Meadow Trail

Stanislaus National Forest, California · 4 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
600 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
4 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Kennedy Meadow: broad subalpine flat with wildflowers through mid-July
  • Middle Fork Stanislaus River with fishing and swimming access
  • Pack station mule and horse traffic adds to the wilderness atmosphere
  • Gateway to the high Emigrant Wilderness for backpackers

Overview

Kennedy Meadow is the kind of subalpine meadow that becomes a standard reference point when Sierra Nevada regulars describe their favorite places. The meadow stretches nearly a mile along the Middle Fork Stanislaus River at roughly 6,400 feet, surrounded by the volcanic peaks of the Sonora Pass area, with wildflowers filling the flat from late June through mid-July and the river running cold and clear through polished granite channels. The Kennedy Meadow Trail from the eastern trailhead accesses this meadow in the first mile and continues through it to the upper river canyon.

This trail shares its corridor with the longer Relief Reservoir Trail, which extends to 9 miles. This guide covers a 6-mile out-and-back that emphasizes the meadow and the lower river canyon rather than the full push to the reservoir, making it a comfortable day hike for a wider range of visitors. Strong hikers can continue to the reservoir; hikers with less time or fitness can enjoy the meadow in the first three miles and return satisfied.

The Kennedy Meadow Pack Station operates from facilities adjacent to the trailhead and runs commercial mule and horse trips into the Emigrant Wilderness. This is one of the few places in the Sierra Nevada where the traditional working pack stock culture remains genuinely active rather than purely recreational, and the presence of mules moving through the meadow adds to the atmosphere.

Stanislaus National Forest manages the trailhead through the Summit Ranger District. No permit is required for day hiking. Check current conditions for Highway 108 status before any visit, as the pass may be closed through late May in heavy snow years. Leave No Trace principles apply particularly in the meadow where staying on established trails prevents vegetation damage.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1: Trailhead to Meadow

From the Kennedy Meadow parking area, the trail descends slightly toward the river and immediately enters the meadow. The views from the first quarter mile are excellent on clear days: volcanic peaks to the north and east, the flat meadow floor spread out ahead, and the river winding through it. The grade is essentially flat.

Miles 1 to 3: Kennedy Meadow Interior

The trail continues through the meadow's heart, following the river upstream. Wildflower density is highest in this section from late June through mid-July. The pack station corrals and facilities are visible from the trail in the early part of this section. Beyond the facilities, the meadow opens and the human infrastructure disappears from view. The river is accessible for fishing or sitting at the water's edge throughout.

Miles 3 to 4: Upper Meadow and Canyon Entry

The meadow narrows and the trail enters the first section of the upper canyon, where the grade increases slightly and the vegetation transitions from meadow to riparian forest. This is the turnaround for the 6-mile version. Hikers extending to the reservoir continue another 1.5 miles on the canyon trail. Return the same route.

When to Visit

June through October. Highway 108 access determines the opening; the trailhead is typically accessible in late May or June. Peak wildflower season is late June through mid-July. September and October are excellent with autumn color and minimal crowds. The meadow retains a pleasant character even when late-season dryness has ended the wildflower display.

What to Bring

  • Layers for the open meadow section.
  • California fishing license if fishing.
  • Many hikers carry 1.5-2 liters of water; treat river water before drinking. Individual needs vary.
  • Camera: the meadow in wildflower season and the river corridor are excellent photography subjects.

Practical Details

Day use fee applies at the trailhead parking area as of 2026; America the Beautiful Pass accepted. No permit for day hiking. Vault toilets at the trailhead. Dogs allowed on leash. The veteran benefits guide covers the America the Beautiful Pass for veterans.

Getting There

From Sonora, drive east on Highway 108 approximately 60 miles to the Kennedy Meadow turnoff on the left (north) side of the highway, about 4 miles west of the Sonora Pass summit. The paved access road leads directly to the parking area. From the Bay Area, allow 3.5 hours via Highway 580 east and Highway 108.

Trailhead Parking

Kennedy Meadow Trailhead off Highway 108 near Sonora Pass. Large paved parking area for approximately 40 vehicles. Day use fee as of 2026 or America the Beautiful Pass.

← Back to Stanislaus National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kennedy Meadow Trail the same as the Relief Reservoir Trail?
The Kennedy Meadow Trail and the Relief Reservoir Trail share the same trailhead and the same initial section through the meadow. The Relief Reservoir Trail extends 9 miles total, while this guide covers a 6-mile out-and-back that focuses on the meadow and lower river corridor without the full climb to the reservoir.
What is the best section of Kennedy Meadow for wildflowers?
The central portion of the meadow, roughly miles 1-3 from the trailhead, typically has the most concentrated wildflower displays in late June and early July. Lupine, Indian paintbrush, and shooting stars are common. The river edges have additional species including monkeyflower.
Can I camp at Kennedy Meadow?
Camping at the main Kennedy Meadow trailhead area is at the pack station facility; check with the facility for current availability. Dispersed camping in the wilderness beyond requires a free self-issue Emigrant Wilderness Permit. Day use at the meadow itself requires no permit.
Is the Kennedy Meadow area appropriate for visiting with horses?
The Kennedy Meadow area is heavily used by pack stock. The pack station there operates commercial trips into the Emigrant Wilderness. If visiting with personal horses or mules, check with the Summit Ranger District for current stock regulations and camping rules.
How does this trail compare to the Clark Fork Meadows Trail?
Both trails access Kennedy Meadow from different directions: the Clark Fork approach comes from the west via the campground, while this trail approaches from the east off Highway 108 near Sonora Pass. The Kennedy Meadow Trailhead approach reaches the meadow more quickly and provides better access to the full meadow extent.