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Relief Reservoir Trail

Stanislaus National Forest, California · 4 min read

Distance
9 mi
Elevation Gain
1,500 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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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 subalpine meadow on the approach
  • Relief Reservoir: large backcountry lake at the edge of the high Emigrant
  • Stanislaus River corridor with excellent fishing throughout
  • Volcanic peaks and formations distinct from granite Sierra scenery

Overview

The Kennedy Meadow area on the east side of Stanislaus National Forest is the primary gateway to the high Emigrant Wilderness. The Relief Reservoir Trail is the main corridor, following the Middle Fork Stanislaus River through Kennedy Meadow's broad, flower-filled expanse and then climbing into the volcanic landscape of the upper watershed to the reservoir at 7,226 feet. This is one of the best day hikes in the forest for experiencing the Emigrant's distinct character: volcanic peaks and formations that look nothing like the granite Sierra of Yosemite and Kings Canyon, meadows that hold their green color through August, and a river that produces consistent fishing.

Relief Reservoir itself is a historical curiosity. The original dam was built in the late nineteenth century as part of agricultural irrigation infrastructure, and it predates the national forest designation. Today, the reservoir is surrounded by wilderness and functions as the largest open water feature in the western Emigrant. Camping around the reservoir is a favorite staging point for multi-day wilderness traverses.

The approach through Kennedy Meadow is the trail's highlight for many visitors. The meadow stretches for nearly a mile along the river with views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and a sense of space that the more enclosed forest trails further west cannot match. Wildflowers fill the meadow through late July. Check current conditions before visiting; the Kennedy Meadow area requires Highway 108 over Sonora Pass to be open, and the pass typically opens in late May or June depending on snowpack. Leave No Trace principles cover meadow travel, particularly important here where the vegetation is sensitive to trampling.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.5: Kennedy Meadow

From the trailhead parking area, the route immediately enters the Kennedy Meadow proper, a broad subalpine flat with the Middle Fork Stanislaus River winding through it. Wildflower displays peak from late June through July. The grade is essentially flat through the meadow. Kennedy Meadow Pack Station sits adjacent to the trailhead and operates mule and horse trips into the wilderness.

Miles 1.5 to 3.5: River Canyon Climb

Above the meadow, the trail follows the river into the upper canyon where the grade increases as the route climbs toward the wilderness interior. The volcanic geology becomes more prominent: red and orange rock formations, tuff outcrops, and volcanic soil that differs sharply from Sierra granite. The river cascades through the canyon in this section with several pools accessible for fishing.

Miles 3.5 to 4.5: Reservoir Basin

The canyon opens into the upper basin and Relief Reservoir appears. The reservoir is larger than most backcountry lakes in the area, with an open shoreline and views of the surrounding volcanic peaks. The dam at the reservoir's outlet is visible but unobtrusive. Camping is dispersed throughout the basin; popular sites are on the benches above the east shore. The turnaround for day hikers is the reservoir. Return the same route.

When to Visit

July through October. Highway 108 over Sonora Pass typically opens in late May or early June; check CalTrans before planning early-season visits. The Kennedy Meadow area is accessible shortly after the pass opens, but the upper reservoir trail may retain snow through June. September is excellent for the trail with fall color in the meadow vegetation and minimal crowds.

What to Bring

  • Many hikers carry 2 liters of water; water is available from the river but requires treatment.
  • California fishing license if fishing.
  • Bear canister for overnight trips (required).
  • Layers for the exposed upper basin.
  • Trekking poles useful on the canyon climb.

Practical Details

Day use fee applies at Kennedy Meadow Trailhead as of 2026; America the Beautiful Pass accepted. Free wilderness permit self-issued at trailhead for overnight camping. Vault toilets at the trailhead. No restrooms on trail. Dogs allowed. Camp 200 feet from water sources.

The veteran benefits guide covers the America the Beautiful Pass available at no cost to veterans.

Getting There

From Sonora, drive east on Highway 108 approximately 60 miles to the Kennedy Meadow turnoff, which is on the left (north) side of the highway approximately 4 miles west of Sonora Pass summit. The paved access road leads to the large Kennedy Meadow parking area. Total drive from Sonora is about 1.5 hours.

From the east (Bridgeport area), drive west on Highway 108 over Sonora Pass to the Kennedy Meadow turnoff approximately 4 miles from the summit on the west side.

Trailhead Parking

Kennedy Meadow Trailhead off Highway 108 near Sonora Pass. 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

What is Kennedy Meadow on the Stanislaus?
Kennedy Meadow is a broad subalpine meadow at roughly 6,400 feet on the Middle Fork Stanislaus River near Sonora Pass. It is a staging area for backpackers entering the Emigrant Wilderness and a beautiful destination in its own right, with wildflower displays through late July and good fishing in the river.
Is Relief Reservoir a natural lake or a dam?
Relief Reservoir is an early-twentieth century water storage reservoir created by a small earthen dam on the West Fork Stanislaus River. Despite being a reservoir, the backcountry setting and surrounding wilderness make it feel more like a natural backcountry lake than a developed water facility. The historical significance of the original water rights is part of the area's character.
Do I need a permit for the Relief Reservoir Trail?
A free self-issue Emigrant Wilderness Permit is required for overnight camping. Day hikers do not need a permit. The permit is available at the Kennedy Meadow Trailhead kiosk as of 2026. Verify current requirements with the Summit Ranger District.
Is fishing allowed at Relief Reservoir?
Fishing is allowed in the reservoir and along the Stanislaus River approach. A California fishing license is required. Check current CDFW regulations for specific rules in the Emigrant Wilderness area.
Can I continue past Relief Reservoir into the Emigrant Wilderness?
Yes. Relief Reservoir is a common staging point for multi-day backpacks into the high Emigrant Wilderness. Trails continue from the reservoir to Grizzly Meadow, Emigrant Lake, and further into the wilderness interior.