Sequoia Backpacking Kaiser Peak
Sep 18 - Sep 20, 2026
$140
The mountains are calling! It’s time to head into the High Sierra and explore the beautiful Twin Lakes Basin. Join us as we backpack through the forests and granite landscapes of Sierra National Forest, camping beside crystal-clear alpine lakes and soaking in stunning mountain views. We’ll spend our days fishing, learning about the unique ecology of the Sierra Nevada, and hiking to the summit of Kaiser Peak for breathtaking panoramic views.
Skill Level: Intense, Moderate
Activity Level: Advanced
Trip Highlights
- Kaiser Peak summit
- Fishing
- Ecology teachings
Details
Meet at the Recreation Center to depart campus on Friday morning and drive to Sierra National Forest, near Shaver Lake; transportation provided by ASI.
We will hike approximately 5 miles from the Twin Lakes Trailhead to Lake George, where we will camp Friday and Saturday Night.
On Sunday, there will be options for fishing and chilling, or a day hike up the stunning Kaiser Peak. We will have ample time to enjoy a weekend under the stars amongst trees, granite, and Sierra peaks. Hike out and return to campus on Sunday afternoon. Participants can expect to return to campus by 5:00pm.
What's Included
- Transportation to and from campus.
- Basic instruction.
- Tents.
- Group gear: pots, pans, stoves, food storage, water filters, first aid kits, GPS, camp tools, sunscreen.
Meals: Friday dinner; Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Sunday breakfast. Snacks provided each day, Fri-Sun.
What to Bring
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Backpacking Backpack
- Headlamp
- Bowl, mug, eating utensils
- 3 hard-sided water bottles
- Toiletries and personal medications
- Hiking boots
- Camp shoes (closed toe)
- Layers to keep warm
- Rain jacket
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses
- Credit card/money for meals on the road; dinner on Friday and Sunday
- Personal snacks
If you don’t have all the listed equipment, please reach out to us at asipolyescapes@calpoly.edu to inquire about rentals or borrowing equipment.
An extensive gear list will be provided at the mandatory pre-trip meeting. Trip leaders will contact participants in advance with more information.
The Poly Escapes Rental Center at the Cal Poly Recreation Center has the gear you need for your next adventure! Explore our selection online, then visit the Rental Center to equip your trip.
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